City of Lancaster Announces 2024 Events Schedule

The City of Lancaster Office of Promotion (LOOP) has unveiled the lineup of annual events for the coming year, promising a summer filled with celebration, culture, and community engagement. While many longstanding events will return, community feedback and a partnership with the Lancaster County Community Foundation will enhance the 2024 events season.  

LINEUP 

First Friday – First Friday of the month, May through October 

Music Friday – Third Friday of the month, May through September 

Red Rose Run – June 1 

Juneteenth Celebration – June 21  

Celebrate Lancaster – Aug. 16  

Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration – Oct. 5 

Mayor’s Tree Lighting – Nov. 29  

New Year’s Eve Celebration – Dec. 31 

Rain dates will be scheduled for events. 

NEW THIS YEAR 

In addition to perennial favorites like the Red Rose Run and the Mayor’s Tree Lighting, LOOP will introduce changes to existing events as well as the addition of new events. 

This year, Celebrate Lancaster will take place on Aug. 16. By moving the event to August, the City is making space for other significant celebrations in June, like Pride Month and Juneteenth. On June 21, the City will host a Juneteenth celebration, honoring the significant milestone in our nation’s history and the heritage and contributions of Black Americans. 

New Year’s Eve festivities will return this year after a brief hiatus. While plans for New Year’s Eve are still being finalized, residents can expect the return of the iconic Red Rose Drop in some fashion.  

The City will also partner with the Lancaster County Community Foundation on Summer for Lancaster programming. Throughout the summer, Binns Park and Ewell Plaza will be transformed into vibrant hubs of activity, featuring temporary art installations, interactive spaces, and community engagement opportunities. 

“We are eagerly anticipating the lineup of events for the upcoming year, which highlights the very essence of our community – unity, diversity, and vibrancy. Through these gatherings, we have the opportunity to come together, celebrate our shared culture and create lasting memories,” said Mayor Danene Sorace.

SUMMER FOR LANCASTER 

The City and the Community Foundation have joined forces with the Steinman Institute for Civic Engagement, Atomic and TAIT to deliver a fresh, collaborative approach to a summer celebration for Lancaster. Summer for Lancaster is a first-of-its-kind experience spanning the summer season, inviting residents from all corners of the county to honor our diverse communities through events, arts, and music. Building on the City’s existing lineup of events, Summer for Lancaster will introduce innovative new experiences like community dance parties and movement in the park.  

“Our partnership with the Community Foundation allows us to elevate our traditional offerings, ensuring that each event is an unforgettable experience for residents and visitors alike,” said Mayor Sorace.

More details from the Community Foundation about Summer for Lancaster are forthcoming.