Family events in Lancaster County, PA

Tadpole Time introduces little explorers to nature along the river through stories and hands-on activities that spark curiosity. Designed for children ages 2 to 5 with their caretakers, this program features a different theme each month in 2026, including Birds, Seeds, Tadpoles and Frogs, Rainbows, Who lives in a tree, Bubbles, Go on a Hike, Water Fun, Fish, Rocks, Canoes, and Animal Tracks. Every child must attend with a participating adult. Columbia Borough residents attend for free, and non-borough participants pay $4 per child at check-in, with cash or card accepted. Taking place in Columbia, PA.

Enjoy a free screening of Mountain Souls in the auditorium at Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area. The film runs 50 minutes. Consider taking a hike on nearby trails before or after the screening, and take time to explore the visitor center and museum.

Test your knowledge across four rounds of general trivia, with the third round featuring pictures. It is free to participate on your own or with a team of any size, and non members are welcome. Answers are written on an answer sheet, teams check their own responses, and the host keeps score. The setting is family friendly and non smoking, with food and bar service available for purchase. This event takes place each week downstairs in The Commander's Room.

Celebrate a Halloween-themed weekend at Jellystone Park with haunted thrills, pumpkin magic, and festive competitions. Guests staying in cabins or RV sites can brave a haunted attraction, take part in the Magic Pumpkin Experience, and show off their spooky style in a costume contest. Classic trick-or-treating is on the agenda, along with the Spooky Site Decorating Contest and the Ghostly Golf Cart Decorating Contest for those who love to decorate. Activities are offered on the weekend only.

Sight & Sound Theatres stages Joshua in a live production that explores themes of faith, courage, and destiny. The story unfolds onstage through a dramatic presentation that brings these elements to life.

The American Heart Association hosts the Lancaster Heart Walk at Long’s Park. Before the route begins, on-site registration and pre-walk festivities take place, followed by the walk setting off from the park. Participants can take part individually or team up with friends, family, or colleagues.

Millersville University’s Homecoming Block Party fills SMC Yards, formerly the Harbold Hall site, with a festive campus buzz. Attendees can explore a curated mix of food trucks, enjoy music and other entertainment, and settle into welcoming spaces designed for gathering and reconnecting. Stop in for lunch, meet up with classmates, or simply take in the Homecoming energy as this lively hub anchors the day’s activities. As part of Homecoming 2026, the celebration ties into additional happenings around campus, including a community parade, a maker’s market, and the football game.

The annual District Art Show from the School District of Lancaster highlights the creativity of SDoL students in grades K through 12. Student artwork is on view at the Ware Center for the Arts, illustrating how making art builds critical and creative thinking and deepens the ability to interpret what is seen. Part of Lancaster ArtWalk, this showcase presents talent from across the district alongside a wider lineup of galleries and events.

Capture seasonal portraits with 30 minute mini sessions at Historic Rockford, featuring a charming mansion, rustic barn, and open fields that create a timeless outdoor backdrop. These quick sessions work well for families, children, couples, seniors, and maternity, and are ideal for refreshed family photos. Spots are limited. Two package options are available. The Family Print Package includes two 8x10s, two 5x7s, two 4x6s, and eight wallet prints for $53. The Digital Package provides seven edited images for $106. Pricing covers up to six people, with an additional $25 per extra person plus tax. A non refundable $5 deposit is required to reserve a time and is applied to the final balance. Payment is accepted by cash, check made out to Tanya Stewart Photography, or credit card. The remaining balance is due before the session or on the day of the shoot. Additional prints can be ordered about two weeks after the session and are paid for when the order is placed. Editing turnaround for galleries is typically 2 to 3 weeks in January and February, and 3 to 6 weeks from March through December. For weddings, delivery is usually 3 to 4 months from January through July and 4 to 6 months from August through December. Sneak peeks are shared on the Tanya Stewart Photography Facebook page.