Located in Penn Square of downtown Lancaster, Lancaster Central Market is one of the oldest municipally-operated markets in the country. This market was established in 1889, beginning as a place for farmers to sell their produce to local community members. Now, it’s a lively hub for locally sourced ingredients and meals, from Amish-operated vendors to talented artisans. Whether you’re looking for sensational bites or seeking ingredients for your own cooking, prepare for the ultimate food-filled adventure at Lancaster Central Market.
23 N Market St, Lancaster, PA 17603
Parking is available at nearby garages and lots, including:
From decadent chocolates to freshly baked doughnuts, there is an abundance of sweets at Lancaster Central Market. Craving Long Johns? Grab one (or a dozen—we won’t tell!) at Marley’s Country Goods. Sensational Pennsylvania Dutch pies also await at Lancaster Pie & Coffee. Other exceptional bakeries include Thom’s Bread, Shady Maple, Safe & Sweet, Zig’s Bakery, Uncle Leroy’s Candy Kitchen, Moore Desserts, and Amaranth Bakery. Don’t forget to take home a pound of sweets from The Candy Stand; Turkish delights and fruit slices are just some of the goodies at this shop.
Lancaster Central Market is brimming with diverse cuisine, featuring pierogies, empanadas, and so much more. Enjoy a hearty Puerto Rican feast from Christina’s Criollo, from yellow rice with pigeon peas and roasted pork to coconut cheesecake and guava puff pastries. Treat your tastebuds to the other side of the world with authentic Southeast Asian bites from Hills to Sea. Satisfy your palate with comforting Southern food from Soulcialize. Top it off with a refreshing and savory bite from Grasshopper’s Wicked Pickles.
Scented candles, handmade glasswork, and rare tea varieties are some of the vendor highlights at Lancaster Central Market. Here, organically made products abound. Make your own charcuterie board with raw wildflower honey from Pineapple House Pantry, cheese from Farm 2 Table Creations or Linden Dale Farm, and jam from Amish Family Recipes. Spruce up your home or wardrobe with Lancaster-themed apparel and collectibles from PA Dutch Gifts. If you have four-legged companions, pamper them with high-end treats from Lancaster Pet Bakery.
Lancaster Central Market is home to an array of annual celebrations. Soak in the summer rays by attending the Strawberry Festival in June, featuring live performances, free activities, and strawberry-themed treats. For the fall, don’t miss the Harvest Breakfast, where pumpkin painting, delectable bites, and vibrant performances await! As for the winter season, enjoy the annual Mayor’s Tree Lighting and kick off the holidays with jolly festivities. For more information on upcoming events around Lancaster, explore our events calendar here.
The Lancaster Central Market is 136 years old.
Entry to the Lancaster Central Market is free! Visitors are only required to pay for their selected items from market vendors.
The oldest vendors at the Lancaster Central Market are Long’s Horseradish, S. Clyde Weaver, and Groff’s.
Dogs are not allowed inside of the Lancaster Central Market, but certified service dogs are permitted in the premises.
Lancaster Central Market offers wheelchair-accessible features at doors #1 and #2 by the southeast corner of the building, which is near Penn Square.
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23 North Market Street Lancaster, PA 17603 (717) 735-6890 Website
113 Butler Ave Lancaster, PA 17601 (717) 490-6303 Website
2195-B Old Philadelphia Pk. Lancaster, PA 17602 (717) 288-2557 Website
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