Events Calendar
Find special events and one-of-a-kind things to do in Lancaster County all-year long. Search for seasonal festivals, wine and food events, local music, cultural happenings and more.
Founded in 1754, the town was originally named after an old tavern, the Cross Keys, and did not become known as Intercourse until 1814.
Much speculation went into the origin of the town's name, but none of the claims have been validated. It's possible the town was named after an old race track on Old Philadelphia Pike called Entercourse, which later evolved into Intercourse. Another theory pertains of the use of language in the early days of the village, in which the term "intercourse" was commonly used to describe fellowship, social interaction, and support - the same values the town still holds today.
Intercourse remains a place where locals, visitors, and Amish farmers meet and socialize. It offers a glimpse into the traditions of the Pennsylvania Dutch with its cultural experiences, shops, homemade goods, and family-friendly events.
If you’re into shopping, or simply want to experience the rich Amish culture found in Intercourse, there are a number of local spots to check out. AAA Buggy Rides at Kitchen Kettle Village is a fun and interactive way to explore Intercourse through the lens of the Amish. Kitchen Kettle Village is a shopping center overflowing with that close knit Lancaster feel, featuring 42 shops including Jam & Relish Kitchen and Deerskin Leather Shop.
For the popular Lancaster quilts, stop on by Village Quilts to admire the hand-stitched patchwork done by locals. The variety of colors and patterns are absolutely eye-catching and make for great quilts, wall hangings, textile art, and more. You can also find a great selection of affordable quilts at The Old Country Store, along with a selection of fabric to create your own quilt. Don’t miss this unique Lancaster experience!
Intercourse is home to lots of Pennsylvania Dutch dishes, and a great place to branch out and explore new foods. While venturing through Kitchen Kettle Village, stop by Harvest Cafe for their delectable breakfast and lunch options, and also their mouth-watering coconut cream pie and shoofly pie.
If you get hungry in between Intercourse, PA excursions, check out Immergut Hand-Rolled Soft Pretzels, an Amish-run family business featuring pretzels, fresh-squeezed lemonade, blended iced coffees, and more. Maybe you’d rather snack on plenty of samples, fresh and smoked meats, an assortment of food at a large deli, or desserts at an in-store bakery? If so, head over to Stoltzfus Meats and Deli, which also features a restaurant called Amos’ Place that serves a bunch of PA Dutch favorites.
Rhubarb Festival at Kitchen Kettle Village, mid-May
Intercourse Heritage Days, mid-late June
Splash into Summer Festival at Kitchen Kettle Village, late June
Tailgating Festival at Kitchen Kettle Village, September
Christmas at Kitchen Kettle Village, late November - mid December
Intercourse Holiday Celebration, early December
Events Calendar
Find special events and one-of-a-kind things to do in Lancaster County all-year long. Search for seasonal festivals, wine and food events, local music, cultural happenings and more.
Covered Bridges in Lancaster, PA
Covered bridges, sometimes called "kissing bridges" due to their romantic allure, are a quintessential Lancaster County experience.
Amish Country
The Pennsylvania Amish of Lancaster County are America's oldest Amish settlement, where tens of thousands still live a centuries-old "Plain" lifestyle.
Independent Retailers in Lancaster, PA
Lancaster is home to many indie retailers, between boutique shops and handmade goods you’re sure to find something you’ll love or a great gift…
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Things to Do
Dutch Wonderland
Opening day is April 5! Start planning your family trip to Dutch Wonderland today!
Cozy Accommodations
Osceola Mill House Bed and Breakfast
Formerly the Mill owners’ home in 1766, this boutique property offers cozy guest rooms, a hearty three-course breakfast, and a tranquil setting to rejuvenate your spirit.
Special Event
Rails & Ales
Don't miss Rails & Ales - a craft beer tasting event - at the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania on Saturday, April 5!