![Best Summer Activities in Lancaster, PA [2026]](https://www.mclennancontracting.com/hubfs/Untitled%20design%20(5)-1.png)
Days are longer, weather is warmer, and skies are brighter. It's time to get ready for fun-in-the-sun this summer in Lancaster County.
Between pool afternoons, beach trips, and barbecue celebrations, summer can definitely be a busy time of year! If you and your family are looking for ways to add some variety and adventure to your summer, Lancaster, PA is the place to be.
To make your planning a little easier, we have compiled a list of Lancaster summer activities and events that will be sure to keep you busy and enjoying this sun-shining warm weather season!*
*Please confirm days and times on event websites in case of changes that may have occurred after this post's publication.
Experience the perfect blend of live music and fine wine at Grandview Vineyard's "Wine by the Vine" series. Enjoy performances by local musicians while sipping on your favorite Grandview wines, local beers, or specialty cocktails. The event takes place on the vineyard's scenic deck, offering picturesque views of the surrounding countryside. In case of inclement weather, the music moves indoors, ensuring the fun continues rain or shine.
Make it a date night or hang out with your friends Thursday nights at Grandview. Enjoy special activities such as 1st Thursday Trivia, 2nd Thursday Yoga, Charcuterie classes, Glass blowing classes, Macramé, Plant night, Paint night, and more.
Guests can enjoy live performances by some of Lancaster's finest jazz groups while dining on the blue flagstone patio overlooking the Strasburg Rail Road and picturesque countryside. Food, wine, beer, and specialty drinks are available for purchase.
Explore Lancaster’s backroads, farmlands, covered bridges and more with this fun twist on tours! Grab a friend, hop on a scooter, and go! (no experience required)
Enjoy music outdoors on Long’s Park’s amphitheater lawn!
Embark on a thrilling 45-minute steam train ride through Lancaster County's picturesque Amish countryside, where you'll become part of an interactive murder mystery performance. Enjoy "A Motif for Murder," a 1930s-era tale where jazz pianist Miles Bishop's retirement party takes a deadly turn, and Detective Sterling Hawthorn must unravel the secrets among the guests.
Embark on a thrilling journey into the Wild West with the "Wild Bunch Coach Car Experience" at Strasburg Rail Road. This one-hour adventure brings the legendary outlaws Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid to life in an action-packed historical performance. As the notorious gang sets its sights on robbing the train, a group of determined Pinkerton agents is hot on their trail, leading to a high-stakes battle of wits and gunfire.
Indulge in a luxurious 45-minute journey through Lancaster County's picturesque Amish countryside aboard the historic Strasburg Rail Road. This exclusive experience offers guests aged 21 and over a curated tasting of select wines from Waltz Vineyards, perfectly paired with artisanal cheeses and crackers. Travel in style within the climate-controlled First-Class Parlor Car No. 88 or the First-Class Lounge Car No. 118, both featuring elegant, vintage-inspired interiors.
Step into the magic of live theater at Bird-in-Hand Stage, where every performance feels personal and memorable. This intimate venue in the heart of Lancaster County brings Broadway-style shows up close, blending humor, heart, and meaningful storytelling. Guests can enjoy a family-friendly performance alongside optional homestyle dining, all with convenient parking and welcoming, accessible facilities. Whether you’re planning a night out with friends, hosting visiting family, or organizing a group outing, it’s an easy and memorable experience for all ages.
This Summer's Shows:
Celebrate the arrival of warmer weather at Nissley Vineyards & Winery during their “Springing Into Summer” weekend music series. Set among the rolling vineyards of Lancaster County, this relaxed outdoor event features live local music, scenic lawn seating, and plenty of award-winning wine to enjoy with friends and family. With both indoor and outdoor spaces available, it’s an easygoing way to spend a spring or early summer afternoon in Amish Country.
Experience the magic of summer evenings at Nissley Vineyards' "Music in the Vineyards." Enjoy live performances by top regional bands amidst the picturesque vineyard setting. Dance under the stars, savor Nissley's selection of wines, wine slushies, and local craft beers, and indulge in offerings from on-site food trucks. Please note that, unlike the Summer Evening Getaway events, this event is exclusively for guests aged 21 and over
Treat your taste buds to the Flavors of Kitchen Kettle Village Tasting Tour, a self-guided culinary experience through one of Lancaster County’s most beloved destinations. Guests can sip, snack, and stroll through the Village while sampling homemade specialties from local bakeries, restaurants, and food shops along the way. With charming storefronts, scenic countryside views, and plenty of delicious surprises, this flavorful event is a fun way to experience the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country.
Celebrate plant-based living during Lancaster VegFest, a free two-day festival held at Buchanan Park in Lancaster City. This family-friendly event features more than 100 vegan food vendors, local makers, live music, wellness activities, guest speakers, and kid-friendly entertainment in a fun and welcoming outdoor setting. Whether you’re fully plant-based or simply curious to explore new foods and sustainable living ideas, VegFest offers a lively summer weekend full of community, education, and great local flavors.
Take a peek behind the gates of some of Strasburg’s most beautiful private gardens during the Strasburg Secret Gardens Tour. This self-guided weekend event invites visitors to explore charming hidden gardens, scenic pathways, and the Strasburg Community Garden while gathering inspiration for their own outdoor spaces. Hosted by the Strasburg Heritage Society, the tour offers a relaxing way to enjoy the beauty of Lancaster County in full bloom while supporting local historic preservation efforts.
Experience the charm of Lancaster County's agricultural heritage at Oregon Dairy's Family Farm Days. This free, family-friendly event offers guided tractor and wagon rides to the farmstead, where guests can enjoy samples of Oregon Dairy's milk and Leiby’s ice cream. Engaging activities include barnyard theater presentations, stream study workshops, agricultural exhibits, and a variety of children's activities like a straw tunnel, corn bin toy box, and a 4-H petting zoo. Additional attractions, available for a nominal fee, feature barrel train rides, pedal tractors, a jump pad, and pony rides. Don't miss the Pennsylvania Product Maker’s Market on Wednesday, showcasing local vendors and their goods.
Celebrate a milestone-filled weekend in the heart of Lititz during Celebrate Lititz, a three-day community event honoring America’s 250th anniversary, Lititz’s 270th birthday, and several local historic milestones. Hosted by the Lititz Historical Foundation, the weekend features live music, historical reenactments, guided tours, artisan demonstrations, family-friendly activities, patriotic concerts, and special community gatherings throughout town. From Founder’s Day festivities to the History Festival and Flag Day celebrations, this free event offers a fun and meaningful way to experience Lititz’s rich history and small-town charm.
Spend a day strolling through beautiful Lititz Springs Park during the Lititz ParkWalk, a beloved community art event featuring fine artists and craftsmen from across the region. Visitors can browse handcrafted jewelry, paintings, photography, ceramics, woodwork, and more while enjoying the charm of downtown Lititz. With free admission, scenic park pathways, and dozens of local artists to meet, the ParkWalk is a relaxing and inspiring way to experience Lancaster County’s creative community.
Kick off summer at Lancaster Central Market’s annual Strawberry Festival, a lively morning celebration filled with fresh local flavors and family-friendly fun. Held in the heart of downtown Lancaster, the event features strawberry-themed treats from Market vendors, live music, face painting, and seasonal activities for all ages. Set against the backdrop of one of the country’s oldest continuously operating farmers markets, it’s a sweet and memorable way to experience Lancaster City in June.
Celebrate the beginning of summer! Kick-off the warm months ahead with live music, yard games and contests, great shopping and grilled food. This event raises money for Music For Everyone, a non-profit charitable organization based in Lancaster County that's dedicated to raising awareness and resources to strengthen the role music plays in our schools and communities.
Celebrate the spirit of Jazz in downtown Lancaster City. This free community event brings together live jazz and cultural performances, local artisan vendors, food trucks, and family-friendly entertainment in the heart of the city. Guests are encouraged to bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy an afternoon filled with music, art, and community celebration at Ewell Plaza and Binns Park.
Celebrate Lancaster County’s rich riverfront history during Riverfest Weekend along the Susquehanna River in Columbia and Wrightsville. This multi-day festival commemorates the historic burning of the Columbia-Wrightsville Bridge during the Civil War with live music, heritage tours, outdoor recreation, family-friendly activities, and special community events throughout the weekend. Visitors can enjoy scenic river views, historical reenactments, races, concerts, and interactive experiences that bring local history and small-town charm together in a memorable summer celebration.
Create, learn, and connect at Lancaster’s Maker Festival. Discover new skills in a variety of fiber arts and bead work. During this festival you will be able to register for and attend a wide variety of workshops and shop the robust and diverse marketplace.
Explore Lancaster County on two wheels during the Farm to Fork Fitness Adventures Amish Country Fondo, a unique cycling event that blends scenic countryside rides with local farm-to-table flavors. Riders can choose from several route lengths through rolling farmland, covered bridges, and picturesque Amish Country roads, with curated farm stops featuring fresh seasonal snacks along the way. Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or simply looking for a memorable outdoor adventure, this fully supported event offers a fun and flavorful way to experience the beauty of Pennsylvania Dutch Country.
Come enjoying this once-in-a-lifetime gathering of 200 artists. Long's Park is transformed into a beautiful outdoor gallery. Stroll around Long's Pond in Long’s Park as you visit with local and national juried artists.
Spring has sprung and that means baby animals are being born at Cherry Crest Farm! Come and meet the new little ones!
Celebrate the Fourth of July with festive flair at Cherry Crest Adventure Farm’s Sweet Summer Festival! This all-day event is packed with family-friendly fun, from the aroma of roasted sweet corn to the excitement of live music, games, and patriotic activities. Festivalgoers can enjoy corn crafts, a bubble dance party, country line dancing, and even a sweet corn eating contest that’s as entertaining to watch as it is to enter. Local breweries and wineries will be on-site, along with delicious food and plenty of activities for kids and adults alike. Be sure to stay for a dazzling fireworks show at 9:30 PM. It’s a sweet celebration of summer, community, and the red, white, and blue!
Fluffy fun takes the spotlight at Cherry Crest Adventure Farm’s Highland Cow Festival! Spend the day celebrating everyone’s favorite shaggy bovines with themed games, photo ops, and the chance to brush a real Highland cow. Guests of all ages will love cowboy hat decorating, live music, and performances by trick roper MacKenzie Fish. Enjoy local wine and beer, kick up your boots during country line dancing, and stay for a spectacular fireworks display at 9:30 PM. It’s a full day of unforgettable down-on-the-farm fun.
See beautiful sunflower and zinnia fields in full bloom at their annual Sunflower Festivals. There will be a winery & brewery, a live band, local craft vendors, and much more family fun.
Celebrate the people who keep our communities safe during this family-friendly hometown heroes festival. The day is packed with activities for all ages, including a candy drop, touch-a-truck experiences with local fire departments, EMS, and police, a patriotic parade, and an evening fireworks show. Guests can enjoy a fun-filled atmosphere while honoring the bravery and dedication of local first responders and healthcare workers, with a portion of ticket sales supporting area volunteer fire departments.
All aboard for a magical journey with Thomas the Tank Engine™ at the Strasburg Rail Road! This beloved event returns for its 30th visit in 2025, offering families a chance to ride behind a full-sized, operational steam locomotive—Thomas himself. The 30-minute train excursion winds through the picturesque Lancaster County countryside, providing scenic views and unforgettable memories.
Beyond the ride, the event is packed with Thomas-themed activities: meet-and-greets with Sir Topham Hatt, live entertainment on the town square stage, photo opportunities, and more. It's an immersive experience that brings the Island of Sodor to life right in Pennsylvania.
Princess Day
Make your child’s fairy tale dreams come to life during Princess Day at the Strasburg Rail Road. Families can climb aboard a historic steam train for a magical ride alongside beloved princess characters, complete with story time, sing-alongs, photo opportunities, and royal meet-and-greets. Set in the heart of Lancaster County, this enchanting event combines classic train travel with interactive fun, creating a memorable summer experience for little princes and princesses alike.
Mermaids and Pirates Day
Set sail for a day of adventure during Mermaids & Pirates Day at the Strasburg Rail Road. Families can enjoy a historic steam train ride filled with swashbuckling pirates, magical mermaids, interactive entertainment, themed activities, and plenty of photo opportunities along the way. This fun-filled event combines the charm of Lancaster County with imaginative family entertainment, making it a memorable summer outing for kids and adults alike.
The Celtic Fling & Highland Games is a celebration of Celtic Culture which has captivated the world for many years. This festival offers a first-hand tour of these compelling cultures. Immerse yourself with the sights, sounds, smells and tastes of this spirited Celtic celebration. Enjoy traditional pipe bands, modern Celtic rock bands, and everything in between, plus delicious Celtic cuisine, fresh brewed ales, wines, ciders, and more!
Enjoy the taste of Maryland with an all-you-can-eat menu featuring crabs, brisket, and more (non-seafood options also available)! This summer staple welcomes guests to enjoy fresh seafood and other favorites while live music fills the air.
A staple celebration in Lancaster, PA, the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire will take you on an eventful ride back in time!! Meet kings and queens, watch an exciting joust, and enjoy a turkey leg as big as your head. Each week has a different theme and will showcase a different experience. With immersive experiences around every corner you will witness history right before your eyes.
Hop over to Clipper Magazine Stadium to watch our local baseball team play a game! These family-friendly games are perfect for a fun afternoon out!
We hope this guide to summer activities and events in Lancaster helps you and your loved ones enjoy this warm and sunny season.
*Please confirm days and times on event websites in case of changes that may have occurred after this post's publication.
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