Lancaster County is home to a lot of local events, and now that you have more free time, you won’t want to miss them. We’ve highlighted several not-to-be-missed summer activities for retirees below, from the best Fourth of July Celebration in the area to ongoing events you can add to your calendar as a highlight of your week.
Don’t miss these unique, local, and fun opportunities in the local Lancaster, Pennsylvania area.
1. Lititz Annual 4th of July Celebration
Lititz Springs Park in Lititz has hosted 4th of July celebrations for over 100 years.
According to their Facebook page, the first 4th of July event held there was celebrated all the way back in 1811. It makes sense that with that much practice, they’d have perfected their celebration.
From fireworks to live music, amazing vendors, and all this set amidst the allure of a charming Main Street, this is at the top of the list for fireworks celebrations in the Lancaster County area.
Get involved and volunteer, or simply show up for the festivities, whichever best suits you!
- Date: July 4th, Annually
- Time: 7 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.
2. Long’s Park Summer Music Series
From folk to rock, the Longs Park Summer Music Series brings beautiful scenery together with various artists from genres that cover every taste. No matter what type of music you love, you’re sure to find a reason to get out and enjoy nature while listening and dancing the night away.
The Summer Music Series isn’t the only event we recommend attending at Long’s Park, either. If you are looking for something to fill your Labor Day weekend with atmosphere, Long’s Park Arts Festival transforms the scenic park into a beautiful outdoor art gallery.
- Date: Ongoing – Check the website
- Time: Varies
3. Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons at the American Music Theatre
If the opening strains of “Big Girls Don’t Cry” or “Walk Like a Man” get your fingers snapping and your head bobbing, you won’t want to miss Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons at the American Music Theatre.
AMT offers comfortable, wider seating with ample legroom, and an ultramodern sound system designed to deliver amazing sound to every seat.
The classic venue, amazing sound quality, and nostalgia come together to make this a truly unforgettable night out.
- Date: July 21st, 2024
- Time: 7 p.m.
4. Lancaster Stormers
Not just your average local team, the Lancaster Stormers’ ballpark was named #1 in the country by Ballpark Digest.
Don’t miss these energetic and all local professional baseball games, right here close to home. If you really love sinking into the local culture, there’s nothing like a cold drink and a hot dog, cheering on the Stormers from the stands.
And if you have grandkids locally or visiting, this is a great spot to take them. Don’t miss their National Ice Cream Day event on July 21st!
Check out their robust schedule here and take the grand kids to go see a game and let them run the bases after select games and enjoy some fireworks on weekends.
- Date: Ongoing
- Time: Varies
Ongoing Activities for Active Retirees
For active retirees, there is no end to great activities in the Lancaster County area. Below, we’ve listed several fun activities and ideas for day trips that can keep you engaged and entertained throughout the summer and beyond.
- Kayaking: Explore the beautiful Susquehanna River or the serene Conestoga River. Both offer excellent opportunities for a peaceful paddle amidst nature.
- Social Dancing: Many local venues like Lancaster Swing Dance, the American Legion Dance Nights and local community centers offer social dance nights, where you can enjoy everything from ballroom to swing dancing. It’s a great way to stay active and meet new people.
- Hiking: Lancaster County is home to numerous trails that vary in difficulty, such as the Conewago Recreation Trail and the Tucquan Glen Nature Preserve. These trails offer breathtaking views and a great way to stay fit.
- Tourist Attractions: Visit popular spots like the Amish Farm and House, the Strasburg Rail Road, and the Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum to immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of the area.
- Concerts: In addition to the Long’s Park Summer Music Series, check out the schedule at the American Music Theatre and the Fulton Theatre for a variety of performances ranging from live music to theatrical productions.
- Mt. Gretna: This charming community offers art shows, music performances, and outdoor activities. The Mt. Gretna Lake & Beach is perfect for a day trip to relax by the water, swim, and picnic.
- Golf: Lancaster County boasts several well-maintained golf courses like the Lancaster Country Club and Overlook Golf Course. Enjoy a leisurely day on the greens with friends.
- Farmers’ Markets: Visit the Lancaster Central Market or the Green Dragon Farmers Market for fresh produce, local crafts, and delicious homemade goods. These markets are great for finding unique items and supporting local vendors.
- Biking: The Lancaster Junction Recreation Trail and the Enola Low Grade Trail offer scenic routes for both leisurely and more intense bike rides.
- Bird Watching: Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area is a haven for bird watchers, especially during the migration seasons. Bring your binoculars and enjoy spotting a variety of bird species.
By exploring these ongoing activities, you’ll find plenty of ways to make the most of your free time, stay active, and fully enjoy the vibrant community of Lancaster County.
Bonus Event: ERL Open House
When summer is winding down, this open house caters to those preparing for retirement, or looking for the perfect housing options and services to enjoy while retired.
Explore Retirement Living offers the unique opportunity to select your favorite options from among 17 life plan communities in the Lancaster area.
Visitors travel from one community to the next to look around, gather information, ask questions, and have fun.
This year’s Open House marks the 12th Annual, and it’s a not to be missed opportunity to really dig into your options; like a parade of homes, this event opens the doors and allows you to prepare for your next steps.
- Date: October 19th, 2024
- Time: 10 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Explore Retirement Living Open House
Saturday, October 19, 2024
Join us for our open house event, where 17 participating non-profit life plan communities will open their doors to showcase the wide variety of homes and services each campus offers.
Lancaster, PA Offers So Much; Get Out and Explore Today!
Our county and the city of Lancaster offer rich social events, including music, the arts, sports, and big-name concerts. Grab your pen and mark your calendar, or, more accurately, your phone, and get ready to fully enjoy your summer with fun events, delicious food, and great company.