BIRD-IN-HAND, PA — Quilting demonstrations, buggy safety lessons, barn star scavenger hunts, local artisans, and Lancaster County food traditions will all come together this summer as Plain & Fancy Farm launches a new family-friendly event series tied to America’s 250th anniversary celebration.
Beginning June 20, Homestead Days will transform Plain & Fancy Farm into a monthly gathering place where visitors can experience hands-on activities, Amish culture, local history, and Pennsylvania Dutch traditions throughout the summer.
Held on the third Saturday of each month from June through September, the rain-or-shine series is designed to offer interactive experiences for both children and adults while celebrating the heritage and storytelling traditions that have long shaped Lancaster County.
A Hands-On Celebration of Lancaster County Heritage
Guests attending Homestead Days can explore artisan demonstrations, educational talks, food sampling, yard games, and activities inspired by early American life and local farming culture.
Children will be able to participate in a scavenger hunt searching for 13 hidden barn stars across the property, while adults can collect stamps in a Homestead Days passport program for prizes and gifts from The Barn & Hearth Shop.
“Plain & Fancy Farm has long been a place where visitors can experience the stories, foods, and traditions that make Lancaster County so special,” said Tom Neely, CEO of Thomas E. Strauss, Inc. “With Homestead Days, we wanted to create a fun, interactive way for families to connect with local history, meet regional makers, and enjoy a day on the farm as we celebrate America’s 250th.”
Monthly Activities and Demonstrations
Each month will feature rotating artisans, educational programs, and seasonal activities.
Highlights throughout the summer include:
- Quilting demonstrations with Amish quilter Linda Fisher
- “Faces & Trades of 1776” Chalk Talks led by Mennonite artist Elva Hurst
- Blacksmith demonstrations focused on horseshoeing traditions
- Horse washing and buggy safety presentations from Aaron & Jessica’s Buggy Rides
- Make-and-take activities including soy candle making, compostable seed pots, and pumpkin painting
Guests can also sample foods inspired by Lancaster County and Revolutionary-era traditions while exploring local vendors and artisan booths.
Additional Experiences Around the Farm
In addition to free Homestead Days programming, visitors will have opportunities to purchase tickets for buggy rides, Amish house tours, schoolhouse experiences, and performances of Jacob’s Choice at the Amish Experience Theater.
Smokehouse at Plain & Fancy Farm will also offer heritage-inspired meals and smoked meat platters throughout the event days.
Event Details
- What: Homestead Days at Plain & Fancy Farm
- When: Third Saturdays from June through September 2026
- June 20
- July 18
- August 15
- September 19
- 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM
- Where: Plain & Fancy Farm, 3121 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bird-in-Hand, PA
- Cost/Tickets: Admission to Homestead Days is free; some activities and experiences may require tickets or fees
- More Info: https://www.plainandfancyfarm.com
Organizers encourage guests to check the website before attending for updated schedules, participating artisans, and activity details.
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