Local Traditions & Customs in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, United States
1. Lancaster Central Market
America's oldest continuously operated farmers market selling fresh produce, meats, and crafts since 1730. Unique for its long history and wide variety of local goods.
- Historical Significance: A market with over 280 years of continuous operation.
- Local Products: Offers a wide variety of locally-sourced goods, from produce to crafts.
- Community Gathering Spot: A place where Lancaster residents have been gathering for centuries.
2. Amish Farm and House
Learn about the Amish lifestyle on a tour of an authentic Amish farm and house. Unique for its insight into a traditional culture that has changed little in over a century.
- Cultural Understanding: Gain insights into the unique Amish way of life.
- Preserved Traditions: Experience a lifestyle virtually unchanged for over a century.
- Interactive Tour: Tours allow visitors to engage with Amish hosts and learn firsthand.
3. Plain and Fancy Theater
Enjoy a traditional Pennsylvania Dutch musical at this unique dinner theater. Unique for its combination of live music, comedy, and Lancaster tradition.
- Entertainment Experience: Experience live music, comedy, and traditional stories.
- Local Flair: Features stories and music from Lancaster's Pennsylvania Dutch community.
- Dinner Included: Enjoy a delicious meal while watching the show.
4. Lancaster Mennonite Central Committee Thrift Store
Find unique treasures at this large thrift store run by the Mennonite community. Unique for its wide selection and proceeds supporting global aid efforts.
- Treasure Hunting: Discover a wide variety of pre-loved items.
- Global Aid Support: Proceeds support humanitarian aid efforts worldwide.
- Community Integration: Interact with members of the Mennonite community.
5. Landis Valley Village and Farm Museum
Step back in time at this living history museum dedicated to Pennsylvania German farm life. Unique for its collection of historic buildings and artifacts.
- Historical Immersion: Experience life as it was lived over a century ago.
- Authentic Buildings: Tour authentic historic buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries.
- Interactive Activities: Participate in traditional crafts and activities.
6. Bird-in-Hand Village
Visit this charming village offering shopping, dining, and shows. Unique for its combination of Amish craftsmanship, cuisine, and entertainment.
- Cultural Experience: Immerse yourself in the Amish culture through shopping, dining, and shows.
- Artisanal Goods: Purchase handcrafted items from local artisans.
- Authentic Cuisine: Taste traditional Amish and Pennsylvania Dutch dishes.
7. Horse-Drawn Tours
Explore Lancaster's historic district on a horse-drawn carriage or buggy tour. Unique for its peaceful and scenic mode of transportation.
- Scenic Tour: Enjoy a leisurely tour through Lancaster's historic district.
- Historical Narration: Learn about the history of Lancaster from knowledgeable guides.
- Traditional Transportation: Experience travel as it was in the past with a horse-drawn tour.
8. Rock Ford Plantation State Park
Tour this historic home built by Revolutionary War hero General Edward Hand. Unique for its connection to American history and beautiful gardens.
- Historical Significance: Visit the home of a key figure in the American Revolution.
- Beautiful Gardens: Stroll through lovely gardens filled with flowers and history.
- Authentic Architecture: Explore an authentic 18th-century Georgian-style mansion.
9. The American Music Theatre
Enjoy a wide variety of live shows at this theater specializing in music and comedy. Unique for its extensive show lineup and family-friendly atmosphere.
- Entertainment Variety: Choose from a wide selection of musical and comedy shows.
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere: A welcoming venue for visitors of all ages.
- Local Talent: Features local and regional performers.
10. Kitchen Kettle Village
Stroll through this collection of quaint shops selling Amish crafts, foods, and gifts. Unique for its charming setting and wide range of offerings.
- Shopping Experience: Discover a variety of Amish-made products.
- Charming Atmosphere: Enjoy the picturesque setting of this charming village.
- Taste Local Delicacies: Sample traditional Pennsylvania Dutch foods.
11. Wheatland Executive Mansion
Tour the home of President James Buchanan, the only U.S. president with ties to Lancaster. Unique for its connection to American history and beautiful gardens.
- Historical Significance: Visit the home of the only U.S. president from Lancaster.
- Beautiful Gardens: Stroll through lovely gardens filled with history and flowers.
- Authentic Architecture: Explore an authentic 19th-century Italianate villa.
12. Cherry Crest Adventure Farm
Experience farm fun with activities like mazes, pedal carts, and animal encounters. Unique for its seasonal attractions and family-friendly activities.
- Seasonal Attractions: Activities vary by season to provide year-round fun.
- Family-Friendly Fun: Activities suitable for visitors of all ages.
- Animal Encounters: Get up close with farm animals and learn about their care.
13. Lancaster Marionette Theatre
Enjoy puppet shows featuring traditional tales and Lancaster history. Unique for its use of marionettes and educational content.
- Puppet Shows: Watch skilled performers manipulate marionettes.
- Traditional Tales: Stories inspired by European and Pennsylvania Dutch folklore.
- Lancaster History: Shows include elements of Lancaster's rich history.
14. The Pennsylvania Dutch Farmstead
Step back in time at this living farmstead showcasing traditional Pennsylvania Dutch farming techniques. Unique for its immersive experience and educational opportunities.
- Historical Immersion: Experience life as it was lived in the past.
- Authentic Activities: Participate in traditional farming activities and crafts.
- Educational Opportunities: Learn about Pennsylvania Dutch culture and history.
15. The Amish Farm and Market
Visit an authentic Amish farm offering fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts. Unique for its immersion into the Amish way of life and fresh local products.
- Authentic Amish Experience: Interact with Amish farmers and learn about their way of life.
- Fresh Local Products: Purchase fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts.
- Cultural Insight: Gain insights into the Amish community and their traditions.