Homestead Days at Plain & Fancy Farm
Homestead Days brings together the timeless traditions of Lancaster County with hands-on fun for today’s families. Come for live demonstrations, family-friendly activities, food tastings, and more
Dates: 3rd Saturday from 11AM – 3PM, June to September
- June 20
- July 18
- August 15
- September 19
Step Into Simpler Times
Homestead Days offers a glimpse into the past, Plain living and Lancaster County crafts. Watch skilled horsemen demonstrate horse care and washing, and see a blacksmith expertly shape and fit a horseshoe.
Children can embark on a farm-wide scavenger hunt, try their hand at historic yard games, and snap a memory-making photo at our Plain & Fancy face-in-a-hole board.
Craftsmen showcase different traditional crafts each month from basket weaving and canning to leatherwork and farming. Some offering hands-on opportunities so guests can try the skills themselves.
Visitors can learn about Amish schooling and daily life and gain a deeper understanding of a community.
Take a ride with Aaron & Jessica’s buggy tours through the countryside and even visit a working Amish farm.
Living History, Told and Drawn Before Your Eyes
Most months, guests can engage their senses through music, storytelling, and the luminous chalk artistry of Elva Hurst, a former Old Order Mennonite woman whose remarkable presentations blend history, faith, and artistry. Through story and chalk, Elva brings early American life and Plain culture vividly to life — her drawings literally glowing as her story unfolds. Advance ticket purchase is recommended.
Taste, Touch, and Experience Lancaster County
Local food sampling at The Barn & Hearth Shop highlights Lancaster County pickling and canning traditions, from chow chow to dandelion jelly. Plus, you can sit down to enjoy Pennsylvania Dutch favorites at Smokehouse BBQ & Brews at Plain & Fancy Farm, or grab a locally made whoopie pie or shoofly pie at The Barn & Hearth Shop.
Most activities are free, with only select specialty items requiring a small fee – making it an accessible and meaningful outing for families, couples, and curious travelers alike. Activities are subject to change and some are weather permitting so see the Plain and Fancy Farm website for up-to-date details.
This summer, as our nation reflects on 250 years of independence, Homestead Days at Plain & Fancy Farm invites you to experience a way of life that has endured for centuries.