Guess Who's Coming to Town ...

Lurking just around the corner, dressed in rags, and carrying a switch, the Belsnickle is eager to make his holiday presence known at the Authentic Bed & Breakfasts of Lancaster County's annual Find Your Belsnickle Tour December 7 and 8. If anyone is excited about seeing him, it's the innkeepers, who love celebrating the intriguing folklore of this holiday character and can't wait to introduce him to guests.

A Christmas-like mythical creature, the Belsnickle, originated in Germany and is often celebrated in Pennsylvania Dutch communities, where he is said to throw candy and nuts at good children and switch the naughty ones. During the Find Your Belsnickle Tour, little figurines of the disheveled guy will be placed throughout the inns, giving guests a chance to win prizes.
The Find Your Belsnickle Tour benefits the Make-A-Wish Foundation and takes place at participating bed and breakfasts across Lancaster County. Guests can stroll through the inns, savor freshly baked cookies, check out decorations from all eras, and enjoy entertainment at select inns. Guests are entered to win a grand prize valued at $325 each time they find the Belsnickle figurine, so be sure to keep your eyes open for the cranky little guy.

The two-day tour allows guests to travel at their own leisure through the inns. Also included in ticket price is admission to the Choo Choo Barn, which is good for the month of December. Tickets are $20 with proceeds benefiting the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Tickets purchased prior to November 18 will be mailed to guests. Tickets purchased afterwards will be vouchers to be exchanged at select inns. For more information, click here on Find Your Belsnickle or call Robert at 717-687-3664.

Welcome the holiday season with the Authentic Bed & Breakfasts of Lancaster County's Find Your Belsnickle Tour. Enjoy the scenery of Lancaster as you visit each inn, savor fresh-from-the-oven cookies, entertainment, and enjoy the inns new holiday wardrobe, all while supporting a very worthy cause.

Fun in the Fall in Lancaster County

The activities and events are abundant this autumn in Lancaster, whether it's pumpkin picking or Oktoberfest, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Give one of our Authentic Bed & Breakfast  inns a call and start planning your visit to Lancaster County. The innkeepers are the finest there are when it comes to hosting a visit and they make a top-notch breakfast. Be sure to check out one of these events during your stay (www.authenticbandb.com).

Celebrate Oktoberfest at Lancaster Liederkranz September 20-22 during the traditional festival that commemorates German culture with authentic food, beers, dancing, and more. Tickets are $6 for adults and $2 for children 6-15. To view a full menu and more events, visit www.lancasterliederkranz.com.

Take yourself on an eerie tour alongside Ghost Tours of Lancaster, with locations in Strasburg and downtown Lancaster. Your tour guide will take you on a spooky stroll through town where you'll listened to historic tales that will give you chills and visit haunted locations along the way. For information, visit www.ghosttour.com.

The Veteran's Memorial Bridge transforms into an art show during the Bridge Bust on Oct. 5 from 8 a.m.-4 p.m., with over 300 art, craft, antique and food vendors. Guests will also appreciate the breathtaking view of the Susquehanna as they peruse the fair overlooking the river. For up-to-date information and news about Bridge Bust, check out its Facebook page, 31st Annual Bridge Bust.

Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum hosts Harvest Days October 12 and 13. You'll enjoy  demonstrations, exhibits, live music, horse-drawn rides and more. Hours are 11-5 p.m. and tickets are $12 for adults, $10 for seniors, $8 for kids ages 6-11 and free admission for kids five and under. For complete information, visit www.landisvalleymuseum.org.

What better way to take in the scenery of Lancaster County than heading out to a farm for some good-old pumpkin picking? There are plenty of patches peppered throughout the county. From area attractions to wide open fields, you'll find a farm perfect for you and your family. Visit www.discoverlancaster.com for a complete list of pumpkin places. 

The Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire is open now through October 27 and promises to keep guests entertained with live music, dancing, demonstrations, artisan merchants, lots of food, jousting  and much more. Learn more about the Renaissance Faire and purchase tickets at www.parenfaire.com. 

Plan your next visit to Lancaster and explore all the great places throughout the county. Whether you're a country or city person, there is something for everyone. Our innkeepers are professional and welcoming and will accommodate each guest and personalize your visit. And remember - book direct to save. Happy autumn!

More Summer Events in Lancaster County!

As the summer cruises along, the events just keep popping up in Lancaster County and our innkeepers are eager to host your next visit, with top-notch hospitality, impeccable breakfasts and a local flair you can't get anywhere else. Whether you're coming to see The Beach Boys at American Music Theatre, visit a beer festival, or to just to travel through Amish farmlands, be sure to book direct with one of our inns for an unforgettable stay (www.authenticbandb.com).
Weathered Vineyards and Winery in Ephrata offers live music on its grounds every Friday and Saturday from 5-8 p.m. Featuring many different genres of music, guests can enjoy an evening sipping wine, local spirits, beer, and food from vendors. Admission is free. For more information, visit www.weatheredvineyards.com.

Head to Columbia for the Rivertown Hops event at the Columbia Animal Shelter on August 17. The event takes place from 4-8 p.m. and features beer from local brewers, food trucks and more. For tickets and more information on the third annual Rivertown Hops event, visit www.rivertownhops.com.
If you are a fan of model railroads, you won't want to miss Model Railroading Days at the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania in Strasburg on August 17 and 18. Regular admission cost gets guests look at all sorts of model trains, admission to the museum and more. For more information, visit www.rrmuseumpa.org.

The Beach Boys are coming to American Music Theatre on August 23 and if you're a fan (and who isn't …) you won't want to miss it. Famous for their harmonious songs like Help Me Rhonda, God Only Knows and Kokomo, everyone's favorite beach band promises to host a great show in Lancaster. For more information and ticket prices, visit www.amtshows.com.

Farm to Fork Fondo is visiting Cherry Crest Adventure Farm August 24 and it's sure to be a biking experience you won't forget. The organized ride is tailored to fit everyone's needs with different distances of biking and stops featuring chef-prepared dishes along the way in scenic Lancaster County. Included with the tickets are a post-ride barbecue, raffles tickets, prizes, souvenirs and more. For more information, visit www.farmforkfondo.com.

Enjoy a cold one on August 24 in downtown Lancaster during the seventh annual Lancaster Craft Beerfest, with dozens of breweries, including local favorites, food vendors and live music. Two sessions take place: noon-3 p.m. and 4-7 p.m. For tickets and more information, visit www.lancastercraftbeerfest.com.
There's something for everyone to enjoy in Lancaster County this summer and beyond. Let our innkeepers give you the quality Lancaster County experience you'll truly appreciate. Book now at www.authenticbandb.com.

Summer Happenings in Lancaster County

It's officially summer and things are alive and kicking in Lancaster County for the next few months. Whether it's live music, scooter tours, special events, or antiquing, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Grab a room at an inn, explore all that our county offers, and make new memories. And remember, it's always a good idea to book direct and save. Visit www.authenticbandb.com to find a list of our inns and call directly to make reservations.
Antiques Extravaganza kicks off June 28 and continues through September 30. The events take place along seven miles of antique shops, markets, dealers and more in Adamstown, the antiques capital of the United States. The extravaganza includes longer hours, more merchandise and great bargains. For more information, visit www.antiquescapital.com.
Want to get out and explore the most picturesque farmlands and places Strasburg has to offer? Check out Strasburg Scooters, who offer a covered bridge tour, bridges and brunch tour, date night, sunset tour and more.
Tours are lead by an experienced guide on 50cc scooters, including single, double seated, and three-wheeled scoot coupes. For more information or to book a tour, visit www.strasburgscooters.com/strasburg.
Long's Park Summer Concert Series is one of Lancaster's most celebrated outdoor music events and takes place every Sunday at the park through August 25. In its 57th year, the Long's Park concert series are free and feature a handful of food trucks, a large lawn and a line up of amazing performers. For more information, visit www.longspark.org.

Enjoy a baseball game during your next visit and plan an evening with the Barnstormers at Clipper Stadium. The stadium is packed with great amenities, including local food and beverages, a kid's play area and much more. If you're a fan of baseball, be sure to come cheer on our own Barnstormers. For tickets and more information, visit www.lancasterbarnstormers.com

The much-anticipated event Celebrate Lancaster 2019 takes place June 28 from 11:30-10 p.m., featuring over 20 food vendors, two stages of live music, two pub areas and fireworks. Come downtown and help celebrate the culture and diversity of Lancaster. For more information, visit www.visitlancastercity.org.

Sit back, relax, and enjoy Music in the Vineyard at Nissley Vineyards this summer in Lancaster. Taking place Saturday evenings June 29-August 31, the concerts feature talented musicians on the beautiful grounds of the vineyard. Guests are invited to bring their own picnic (wine and other beverages are available for purchase). In its 37th season, Music in the Vineyards is definitely worth a visit. For more information, visit www.nissleywine.com.
Take a few days to relax and enjoy all that Lancaster County has to offer this summer and find an inn that fits your needs. There's no doubt you'll be impressed by the focus and care our innkeepers have for their guests. Visit www.authenticbandb.com now to start your Lancaster County adventure.

Touring Lancaster’s Best Greenhouses

One of the biggest attractions in Lancaster County are the greenhouses. Not the ones you may be used to though, these are off the beaten path in all corners of Lancaster and can often be hard to find. They are some of the finest this county offers, surrounded by farmland, picturesque views, and makes shopping for plants an unforgettable experience. Authentic Bed &Breakfasts of Lancaster County created a detailed list of some of our favorite places and we hope you enjoy them as much as we do. (It’s important to note that most of these are located on Amish farms, are not open Sundays, and often only take cash).
Black Creek Greenhouse (211 E. Black Creek Road, East Earl) This place seems to have everything, from fairy garden supplies to a large selection of herbs, perennials, decorations and more, you’ll love strolling through this greenhouse. You can also find new and unusual plants here. Hours are through June: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-8 p.m., Saturday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. and July-December Monday-Saturday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Briar Rose Greenhouses (581 Briertown Rd., East Earl) is more than just a greenhouse. It also has a little farm animal petting area, featuring different animals. They also offer a wide selection of plants and sell soil and mulch (all at reasonable prices). Briar Rose is open Monday-Saturday 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Country Lane Succulent Plants (152 Snyder Drive, New Holland) This farm features succulents and the owners’ half a dozen dogs, their puppies, a giant turkey, and sometimes cows and ducks. This place is overflowing with charm, artful plant decorations, and they reuse all sorts of items to plant succulents (my recent purchase was a tiny ceramic shoe stuffed with a variety of succulents for only $3) and their prices begin at $1.50. Hours are Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Groff’s Plant Farm (6128 Street Rd., Kirkwood) offers a large selection of annuals, perennials, veggies and more. They are extremely reasonably priced and now take credit and debit cards. They are open Monday-Friday 9 a.m-7 p.m. and Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Henry’s Farm and Greenhouses (1258 Oregon Hollow Road, Holtwood) opens April 26 and offers a huge variety of plants, vegetables, flowers, and unusual plants. This family-owned business is a favorite for many locals with beautiful grounds and views. Hours are Tuesday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m., and Saturday 8 a.m.-12 p.m. (through May 25).  

Herbal Springs Farmstead (447 Brossman Road, Ephrata) is a mecca for butterfly plants, native plants, annuals, herbs, edibles, unique plants, and much more and sits on a pristine Lancaster farm, where you’ll want to wonder around all day. Hours through June are Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. and Saturday 8 a.m.-3 p.m.
Pinewood and Posies, (4547 White Oak Road in Paradise) is simply breathtaking, with acres and acres of flowers to cut. Although their main focus is on flowers you can cut yourself, they do sell some other plants. This place is totally worth the visit, and you’ll be in awe of their gardens and little nooks and sitting areas along the way. Hours are Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturdays 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
Shady Willow Greenhouse (338 Willow Road, Lancaster) offers customs planters, supplies, miniature garden trinkets, all sort of perennials and annuals and Christmas products. Shady Willow is open March-December and hours are Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-8 p.m., and Saturday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Zimmerman’s Greenhouse (421 Brossman Road, Ephrata) is quite the hidden gem. They feature reasonably priced flowers, veggies, potted flowers and much more. You can also bring your own pots and planters and the staff will fill it with flowers you purchased. Hours are Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-8 p.m. and Saturdays 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Next time you visit one of our inns, be sure to check out many of the greenhouses throughout the county, you'll certainly be glad you did! Happy gardening and planting!

Take a Hike

Many people know Lancaster for its rolling farmland, Amish community, and downtown, but it's also a great place to take hikes, walks, and bike rides. Whether it's a stroll along one of the rail trails or a walk along the river in the woods, there's plenty of leisurely outdoor attractions to take advantage of in Lancaster County. 

One of the most picturesque trails in Lancaster County, Tucquan Glen, located in Holtwood, is a moderate trail and runs along the tributaries Tucquan Creek and Clark Run. There are four round-trip trails visitors can take that lead to a view of the Susquehanna River. Along the way are lush trees, rhododendrons, waterfalls, natural pools and more. Not far from Tucguan Glen is Kelly's Run Nature Preserve, which is also a tributary of the Susquehanna, with pristine views, mature trees, abundant wildlife, and native plants and flowers. Just around the corner is Pinnacle Overlook, which offers one of the best views of the Susquehanna River. The hike is more difficult and offers 2.76  miles of trails that connect with other trails like Tucquan and Kelly's Run. 

Lancaster County Central Park, located in the middle of Lancaster County, is home to many trails, an environmental center, library, covered bridge, Garden of the Five Senses and more. Trails include the Wildflower Trail, Scout Trail, Equestrian Trail and more and follow creeks, boast spectacular views and are lush with wildflowers, plants, and trees. 

There are several rail trails in Lancaster County that are perfect for biking or an afternoon stroll. The Enola Low Grade trail in Providence Township is a 23-mile gravel trail spanning from Safe Harbor Dam to Atglen. Northwest Lancaster River Trail is a paved 14-mile trail taking guests from Columbia to Conoy Township. A popular trail along the Susquehanna, the rail trail also has a stop in the charming town of Mariettta, a route that is becoming increasingly popular with bicyclists.

Just completed this past December, the Warwick-Ephrata Rail Trail starts on Broad Street in Lititz and extends to West Chestnut Street in Ephrata. The 6.7 trail is perfect for a bicycle day trip and you'll have the chance to visit boutiques, shops, and restaurants in both of these delightful little towns. 

For a complete list of places to hike, walk and bike in Lancaster County, visit www.lancasterconservancy.org. And as always, book a room at one of our inns to complete your adventure by visiting www.authenticbandb.com. Remember, if you book direct, it saves you money and helps support our businesses. Happy spring and happy hiking! 

Spring into these Exciting Events in Lancaster

Spring is just around the corner and we're certainly ready for it here in Lancaster County. Along with spring comes many exciting events and you can make it an extra special trip by booking a room at one of our Authentic Bed & Breakfasts at www.authenticbandb.com. And remember, if you book direct, it'll benefit you by saving money and help support our local inns.
Sight and Sound Theatre is performing its critically acclaimed show "Jesus" now through October 5. The show is full of action, magnificent scenes, and an unforgettable cast. For more information and to purchases tickets, visit www.sight-sound.com.

On March 28, the annual Friendship Heart Gallery 2019 Art Auction takes place at the Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences Auditorium. The event begins with a silent auction at 6:30 p.m. followed by a live auction at 7:30. Tickets are $35 and include hors d'oeuvres, auctions and a meet and greet with artists. The auction benefits Friendship Heart Gallery, who work with artists with intellectual disabilities and autism. For more information, visit www.friendshipart.net.

April 6, the much-anticipated Rails and Ales event takes place at the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania in Strasburg. The 21-and-over event features craft brewers, food vendors, entertainment and, of course, trains. General admission tickets are $40 (just $15 for designated drivers) and proceeds benefit the non-profit organization Friends of the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania. For more information, visit www.railsandales.org.
The American Music Theatre is introducing some really fantastic shows to its events calendar, including The Doobie Brothers on April 10, Stomp on April 14, Straight No Chasers on May 4, and Diana Ross June 26, just to mention a few. For a complete list of concerts and original shows, visit www.amtshows.com.

 Bird-In-Hand Family Restaurant and Stage introduce an all-new magic show Magic & Wonder: Imagine - The Spark of Creativity. Illusionist Brett Myers brings his talent and creativity to the stage for a unique experience and captivating storytelling. For more information, visit www.bird-in-hand.com/stage.
The Launch Music Conference takes place in downtown Lancaster April 25-28. With over 1,000 artists from around the country, guests of the festival will enjoy different genres of music and panels at venues throughout the downtown area. For more information on bands, speakers, presentations and more, visit www.launchmusicconference.com.
The list of upcoming events and attractions springing up in Lancaster in the next few weeks and months is exciting and our innkeepers are looking forward to hosting your next visit to Lancaster County. We hope to see you soon!