Category: Spring Activities
2026 Mud Sales You Don’t Want to Miss in Lancaster PA
January 28, 2026Key Facts about Amish and Mennonite Mud Sales
- Community mud sales are outdoor Amish and Mennonite auctions held mainly in spring (with some fall dates) across Lancaster County, raising money for local fire companies and nonprofits.
- Events feature all-day auctions plus plentiful local food, with Amish attendees often outnumbering visitors, giving a uniquely immersive Pennsylvania Dutch cultural experience.
- Shoppers can bid on big-ticket items like buggies, farm equipment, furniture, carriages, and quilts, while also buying smaller crafts, home goods, and baked goods without bidding.
- Most sales start around 8–8:30 a.m., run rain or shine, and can be extremely busy, so visitors are encouraged to plan travel and lodging well in advance.
- Key visit tips include checking what each sale offers and how to bid, bringing cash, dressing for mud and changing weather, ensuring vehicle space for purchases, and making it a full Lancaster getaway with local attractions and stays like AmishView Inn & Suites.
Enjoy Strawberry and Cherry Picking in Lancaster County
June 12, 2024Key Takeaways: Summer Fruit Picking in Lancaster County
- Strawberry Season (Late May – June): Enjoy the peak of summer sweetness at family favorites like Cherry Hill Orchards, Shenk’s Berry Farm, and Barnyard Kingdom, which offer kid-friendly farm activities alongside the fields.
- Cherry Season (Starts Mid-June): Transition from berries to cherries at Kauffman Orchards and Stauffer’s Fruit Farm, where you can pick both sweet and sour varieties by the pound or bucket.
- Always Check Before You Go: Fruit ripening depends heavily on the weather; it is highly recommended to call the orchard or check their social media updates for daily picking conditions before heading out.
- Classic PA Dutch Dining: Round out your harvest day with a visit to Miller’s Smorgasbord, a Lancaster County staple for over 95 years, consistently recognized as one of USA Today’s 10 Best Buffets.
- The Perfect Summer Home Base: Stay at AmishView Inn & Suites to enjoy a gourmet breakfast buffet and easy access to the U-Pick fields, located right in the heart of the scenic Plain & Fancy Farm.
Lancaster County is the perfect destination for families and couples looking to enjoy the sweet flavors of summer with strawberry and cherry picking. This guide will help you discover some of the best spots for picking your own fresh fruit, along with other fun activities and excellent accommodations.