Events in Lancaster today

A broad festival devoted to combat sports, fitness, training, and resilience fills the day. Hands-on seminars led by experienced instructors cover multiple disciplines to help participants sharpen their skills. Competition features BJJ, wrestling, grappling, karate, ChickJitsu, Stack the Weight, and esports, with opportunities for competitors across disciplines and for spectators to see elite athletes in action. Keynote talks focus on resilience, post-traumatic success, leadership, and rebuilding life after the hardest moments, presented by speakers who have lived the topics they discuss. The RuckStack brings the GORUCK community into the mix with shared movement, grit, and camaraderie. The finale delivers live SubversivBJJ matchups highlighting Philly vs Pitt. Exhibitors and vendors add to the experience with gear, supplements, apparel, and brand showcases. Committed to training, building community, and giving back, the event directs 20 percent of every ticket to selected beneficiaries, so participation also supports a larger cause.

Get certified for Pennsylvania hunter-trapper education at Pequea Valley Sportsman Assoc in Willow Street. Registration is currently open, with limited seats remaining. Plan to arrive prepared for the training day.

Learn essential lifesaving skills during a CPR and AED certification class at Lancaster Stormers. Plan to arrive a little early for check-in and to pick up your training materials, as the class starts promptly. Be prepared for hands-on practice on the floor while learning CPR and AED use, so wear comfortable clothing suitable for kneeling. This course teaches chest compression only CPR and does not require giving breaths to the manikin. The registration fee helps cover the cost of materials. Payments are nonrefundable, but a credit toward a future CPR class is available if plans change.

Adoptees Connect Lancaster offers a monthly peer-supported meeting for adult adoptees from across central and southeastern Pennsylvania. The gathering provides a welcoming environment to share adoption experiences, talk through challenges, and express hopes for the future. Participants come from Lancaster and surrounding counties, and conversations focus on common themes adoptees encounter throughout life. The group operates as a self-help circle where everyone is invited to participate and share responsibility for guiding the discussion, building a small community that feels inclusive and supportive. For more information, text Julie at (717) 535-9065 or email AdopteesConnect717@gmail.com.

Instructor Donna Lashof leads a beginner friendly, one day workshop focused on creating a three dimensional stained glass succulent. The session starts with a safety overview and an introduction to the tools, then moves through each stage of the process, including selecting materials, cutting, shaping on a grinder, applying copper foil, positioning the pieces, soldering, and finishing. Participants will leave with a colorful piece for the home, and some may also have the opportunity to make a butterfly.

Collect a free box of food at this distribution, made possible by Blessings of Hope. No identification is required. Simply come by during the event to receive a box.

Rocks Cardio Box and Fitness LLC presents a free FITcamp session at Binns Park. This 60 minute, circuit based workout is led by certified trainers and blends cardio, strength, agility, mobility, balance, and core training. The lineup changes from week to week to keep the experience fresh, with a welcoming atmosphere that makes it easy to meet new people. The program emphasizes community health and wellness through accessible, high energy exercise suitable for all fitness levels. Pre-registration is preferred but not required.

This event is a Play! Pokemon tournament for the Pokemon Trading Card Game. Registration is completed through a Play! Pokemon account.

At the Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen, instructor Suzy Wurtz leads a four-hour sewing class focused on refreshing well-worn jeans with a quilted insert that features floral fabric and lace. The session is geared toward beginner and intermediate sewists who are already comfortable using their own sewing machines. Students should bring their own sewing notions, while all other materials are provided. A materials fee of $30 per student is due to the instructor at the start of class.

Pavaa Gallery presents an event that blends drumming with visual art, highlighting African art and original creations. Rhythm and creativity come together in the gallery setting.

Inside the Wild at Acorn Acres invites participants to blend creativity with science through a series of wildlife themed craft activities. Projects focus on native animals and nature, with participants creating take home pieces while discovering how traits like footprints, fur, feathers, and living spaces relate to how animals survive and behave. Each activity builds core learning skills, encouraging careful observation, pattern awareness, and an understanding of how form supports function. The session nurtures imagination and fine motor abilities, while fostering a closer connection to the animals that share our world.

Take a musical journey across the globe without leaving your seat as Allegro presents a Staycation program featuring works by Rossini and Mendelssohn, along with pieces by Brian Norcross, who is the ensemble’s conductor, founder, and Artistic Director. The performance traces how travel influenced these composers, weaving their explorations into a spirited, international program. Tickets start at $35, and children ages 5 to 18 attend free with a paying adult.

Music for Everyone hosts a free Silent Disco Night at Binns Park as part of a second Saturday series with a new theme each month. This edition centers on Yacht Rock Vibes, while past months have celebrated Disco, Loud and Proud, Bad Bunny, and Womxn of Pop. Lace up your dancing shoes and get ready to groove.

This event features fireworks presented by Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health, a teddy bear toss, and Youth Hockey Night presented by Dicks Sporting Goods. It also highlights Chester County night.

Nationally acclaimed comedian and former public school teacher Chad Thornsberry takes the stage at Landis Hall at The Junction Center with his There Are No Stupid Questions Tour. Expect clean, family-friendly stand-up built on relatable storytelling about everyday life, parenting, marriage, and real-world experiences. The setting is warm and welcoming, making it a good fit for families, groups, date night, or an outing with friends. The show is presented in historic Landis Hall at The Junction Center near Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Tickets are available with early entry, general admission, and reserved mezzanine options, and accessible seating is offered.

Get ready for a summer bash party with live music and plenty of dancing. Doors open at 6:45 PM, and the event runs from 7:00 PM to late night at the Lancaster County Convention Center in downtown Lancaster. This is an all-ages, in-person event.

Bad Sneakers brings music to Annie Bailey's Irish Public House. Enjoy the downtown Lancaster vibe as you take in the performance.

Enjoy a free, weekly drop-in creative series at Binns Park that invites the community to slow down, explore downtown Lancaster, and engage in hands-on artmaking. Each Sunday features a new focus guided by local artists, educators, and guest instructors. Sessions are semi-guided and open to all experience levels, concluding with an optional group reflection and time to share work. The program emphasizes creativity, accessibility, and connection, using the park as both classroom and inspiration. Monthly themes rotate through the month, with the first Sunday devoted to painting and drawing, the second to sketchbook practice, the third to journaling, and the fourth to photography. Admission is free, and participants should bring their own supplies.

This community event serves students in grades K through 8 from the School District of Lancaster, Manheim Township School District, Hempfield School District, and Penn Manor School District. Attendees can receive free backpacks, clothing, shoes, school supplies, books, haircuts, and more. Staff from Rep Rivera and Rep Smith-Wade-Els will be on site to answer questions about state-related issues. Pre-registration is available. Those interested in volunteering, donating, or contributing can contact Kristian Williamson at kwilliamson@pahouse.net or 717-283-4218.

Recharge with a ReSet Day Retreat designed for women who want time to reconnect, realign, and have some fun. This is a day retreat experience with other women, focused on taking a meaningful break and getting back into a better headspace. Tickets are $30, or free with membership. The cancellation policy states there are no refunds.

These free historic walking tours explore Manheim on foot. Led by a well informed guide, the group hears engaging stories from the town’s past as the walk begins on the museums’ lawn, weather allowing. Please arrive a little early so everything can start smoothly. Tours are offered on select dates. An announcement about haunted walking tours is coming soon.

Cathedral of Funk brings the groove outdoors with a four-part patio series packed with sunshine, soul, and dance floor energy. Jam Hot Radio teams up with rotating special guests for multi-genre sets that blend styles and keep bodies moving. The sessions lead into the West Art Bloc Party and highlight different guest DJs along the way. More than a party, Cathedral of Funk is a welcoming community where people from all backgrounds can let stress fade, move freely, and connect with joy, without expectations or judgment. For this run, entry operates on a suggested $10 donation, contribute what you can, and no one is refused for lack of funds. Look forward to a relaxed patio vibe, a fun drink in hand, new faces, and fresh tunes to discover.

Music Director Lars Potteiger leads an engaging, hands-on drum circle in the Rader Park Pavilion. Open to all ages, this gathering provides drums on site, while participants bring their energy and love of rhythm. Celebrate community through shared beats in a welcoming park setting.

Catch Jay & The Americans and Classics IV at American Music Theatre in Lancaster for a Sunday afternoon show. The event listing puts the performance at 3:00 PM, with local venue time shown on the page.

A Back To School Game features Youth Softball and Baseball Camp and Clinic Appreciation. The celebration recognizes youth camps and clinics and the young players who participate, adding a supportive, upbeat atmosphere to the game.

The Long’s Park Summer Music Series features Low Cut Connie, led by Philadelphia rock and roll artist Adam Weiner. The performance showcases piano-forward rock, energetic sets, and crowd-moving showmanship. Food will be available during the concert from JR’s Brisket, Brickers’ French Fries, OBX Lemonade, Scoops, Traveling J’s, and Walko Taco. Admission is free thanks to support from Hammond’s Pretzels, Kegel’s Produce, WGAL, High Hotels Ltd., Citadel Credit Union, Oaktree Outdoor Advertising, City of Lancaster, Miller’s Ale House, and Wegmans.

Enjoy an open play session for children ages 0 to 5 and their siblings, created for parents and caregivers to play alongside their little ones. The Program Room in the Children’s Library will be set up with a variety of toys for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers. It is a tech-free environment focused on hands-on, social play. Drop-ins are welcome.

Hosted by Embodyment Wellness, this free Mindful Mondays gathering at Binns Park offers a safe, grounding space for downtown families. It features family-friendly movement, meditation, and vendors.

Join the SCAEC Networking Event - Decades for an in-person networking session where you can meet new people and make lasting professional connections. The event runs for two hours, with doors opening at 5:25 PM. Please note that games and bowling are not included, but you’re welcome to pay for them separately if you’d like. Parking is available in a garage right next to the venue.

LAFitness leads a free HIIT bootcamp at Binns Park. Participants are encouraged to bring a mat and water. Registration is available for the class.

Head to West Art — Art Bar for a weekly Old Time Jam with Danny Mulligan. It runs Tuesday evenings from 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM, and you can join in or just come listen. Acoustic instruments are welcome, but please leave the drums and amplifiers at home. You can also grab coffee drinks, tea, beer, wine, or cocktails while enjoying the music.

Music Bingo is free to play and open to everyone, no music knowledge required. Each participant receives a bingo card, and each table gets a master sheet to track songs that have already been played. A 30 second clip of a song is played and the title is announced, and if it appears on your card you mark it off. Sing along and try to complete a line for a chance to win prizes.

Monthly Latin dance nights bring a welcoming evening of Salsa and Bachata. Begin with lessons led by Luis Santiago, then keep moving as DJ Rumspringa spins a high energy mix made for the dance floor. First timers are welcome and seasoned dancers will find plenty of rhythm to enjoy. This standing event takes place in City Hall and is open to all ages. The space is ADA accessible, and efforts will be made to accommodate specific needs. Tickets are $10 in advance and at the door if capacity allows. All ticket sales are final. Digital payments include a small service fee, while cash at the door does not. Street parking is available around F&M College, with suggested spots on the park side of Buchanan, Race, or College Avenues north of Buchanan. West Art Coffee Bar is open daily with a full espresso menu, beer, wine, cocktails, nonalcoholic options, and baked goods from local favorites, so it is easy to grab something before the music.

Casual adult pickup soccer runs through the summer with games focused on fun and fitness. Players of all experience levels can take part without committing to a team. Sign up only for the dates that fit your schedule, pay when you arrive, and enjoy friendly play. It is an easy way to stay active, meet other players, and welcome newcomers as the local soccer community grows.

Settle in at Historic Rock Ford with a chair or blanket for a laid-back night of movies under the night sky. This summer series highlights history-focused films that blend entertainment with learning for audiences of every age. Arrive a little early to get comfortable and enjoy the surroundings before the screening begins. Concessions will be available for purchase, with proceeds supporting Historic Rock Ford. Admission is free, and registration is recommended. The slate includes titles such as Johnny Tremain and National Treasure 2: Book of Secrets.

Settle in at Historic Rock Ford for a laid-back movie night featuring Johnny Tremain. Pack a chair or a blanket to sit on and enjoy an evening in the open air. This summer series highlights history on screen, pairing engaging storytelling with an educational touch.

Dub Truck is setting up a pop-up at Women & Babies Hospital with hot, freshly made doughnuts. The menu includes glazed, chocolate or vanilla iced, cinnamon sugar, powdered with cream filling, chocolate with peanut butter cream filling, and Boston cream, plus rotating flavors of the week and seasonal specials. Payments are accepted by cash, card, or contactless tap. Quantities are limited and items are available while supplies last.

Catch Joshua - Live On Stage at Sight & Sound Theatres. This is a performance of the show, scheduled for Wednesday afternoon.

Read It and Eat: A Cookbook Club welcomes food lovers to bring an appetite and a prepared dish to share. The 2026 reading list begins with The Bao Family Cookbook by Céline Chung in January, with selections for the following months to be determined. Each month, the featured cookbook will be available at the Lancaster City Branch circulation desk. To take part, add your name and chosen recipe to the signup sheet located at the desk. A staff member can make one free photocopy of your selected recipe, or you may take a photo instead. Prepare the dish for a potluck style gathering and discussion. Please follow standard food safety practices when cooking, and clearly label any allergens that may be present.

Adult coed and open men’s pickup soccer games invite players of all abilities for casual, no-commitment play this summer. Choose the days that fit your schedule, show up ready to play, and pay in person upon arrival. It offers an easy way to stay active, enjoy the game, and meet new people while welcoming new players into a growing soccer community. A sign up sheet and additional details are available on the website noted in the event information.

Enjoy a night of Music Bingo at 551 West featuring five rounds and a bonus wheel for extra surprises. Bring a tablet or phone to play. This weekly gathering adds a fun boost to humpday.

Share a song, a story, a poem, a rap, or a joke at a friendly open mic that welcomes first-timers and seasoned performers alike. Hosted by Emily Siegrist, who has led BLAST OFF open mics across Lancaster City since 2013 to help local musicians, rappers, poets, and comedians build skills and pursue their performing goals. This gathering takes place at The Elbow Room and happens every 2nd and 4th Wednesday. There is no cost to attend, and donations are appreciated. For updates, see Instagram at weblastoff.

A book club for readers who want to read or revisit the classics, with conversations centered on enduring works of literature. New members are welcome to take part in the discussion. Selections include Herman Melville's Billy Budd, Sailor (1962 edition), Charles Dickens' Our Mutual Friend, Ford Maddox Ford's The Good Soldier: A Tale of Passion, William Faulkner's Go Down Moses, Donna Tartt's The Secret History, Sinclair Lewis's It Can't Happen Here, Erich Maria Remarque's All Quiet on the Western Front, Fyodor Dostoyevsky's The Brothers Karamazov, Willa Cather's One of Ours, Gabriel García Márquez's One Hundred Years of Solitude, Nickolai Gogol's Dead Souls, and Mark Twain's The Innocents Abroad.

Enjoy an evening for two surrounded by garden views, with live, roaming music setting a romantic tone. Food and wine can be arranged ahead of time, or bring your own beverages. The event takes place rain or shine. Special musical guest Jackson Houston brings a wide musical perspective shaped by early choir and band experience, classic rock at home, punk from a nearby room, and friends with varied tastes. Expect fresh interpretations of songs by artists such as Hozier and Bob Dylan, with the possibility of surprises like ABBA or Whitney Houston. His songwriting is influenced by storytellers like John Prine, John Craigie, and Noah Kahan, with Folk and Americana at the core of his sound.

Join West Art — Art Bar for Drink and Draw!, a low-pressure art meetup happening every Thursday. It is open to all ages, skill levels, and artistic media, so you can show up ready to create your own piece in a relaxed setting.