Above: Cars Under the Lights, benefits Fairmount Fire Co. each June.
Mark Your Calendar for Lansdale’s Must-Do List
By BRUCE SCHWARTZ, Editor, Discover Lansdale Magazine
(Adapted from the Spring-Summer 2020 Issue)
It's a strange year indeed. The present is silent, and the future is uncertain.
Nonetheless, now might be a good time to look forward with anticipation to those events that crowd Lansdale's calendar from late spring right through the Christmas holidays.
Each year we publish this save-the-dates guide. And now more than ever, we remind you that these schedules are all tentative. The International Spring Festival has already been canceled. And Manna's Race to End Hunger is going "virtual."
But we will update this list as information becomes available. So check back often, here and with event organizers, and follow Discover Lansdale’s Facebook page for the latest updates. And we’ll add new events as we become aware. So if your organization is planning something that’s not on our radar, or is changing plans for a currently scheduled event, shoot us a note at info@discoverlansdale.org or use our handy online contact form.
Here's what we know (updated March 23):
Manna Race to End Hunger (UPDATED)
When: Saturday, April 18
Where: Wherever you are
– Manna on Main Street's main fundraiser is adapting to the age of social distancing. The date has moved back a couple weeks (originally April 4), and people are invited to participate "virtually" -- that is, run or walk your registered distance and share a picture on social media. (Maintain a safe space, of course.) Still benefits Manna's mission to end food insecurity in the North Penn area. Details at the link below, or on Manna's Facebook race page.
Info: www.runtheday.com/race/mannarteh/
The International Spring Festival (CANCELED)
MESSAGE FOLLOWS: Dear Friends of ISF, It is with deep sadness that we must cancel the International Spring Festival scheduled for April 18, 2020. We certainly appreciate your ongoing support for the festival and look forward to seeing you next year! Thank you for your understanding and we wish you good health! -- International Spring Festival Executive Board
Info: www.isfconnect.org
(ORIGINAL DETAILS: Saturday, April 18, 11 am to 5 pm, North Penn High School. – Celebrate the rich cultural diversity of the North Penn region. And even more entertainment is on the schedule for the 29th Annual Festival. Fresh from Philly New Year, the Fralinger String Band struts for Mummers glory; other acts include an African fusion band, a Palestinian dance group, a French band, polka, Ukrainian dancers, South Pacific Island dancers, classical strings and belly dancers. Displays and delicacies offer a global view; visit the Fest and see the world.)
First Fridays
When: Every month, May to December, 6:30 to 9:30 pm
Where: All around Downtown Lansdale
– New themes, bands, food, entertainment, vendors and family fun, all sponsored by Discover Lansdale. A first for 2020: Two FF’s in October (due to often-adverse weather in November). And note the earlier scheduling of the mega-popular annual Zombie Walk. This year’s lineup:
Lansdale Farmers’ Market
When: Saturdays, May 16 to November 21, 9 am-1 pm (rain or shine)
Where: Penndale Middle School, 400 Penn St., Church Road parking lot
– For the farm-freshest foods and handmade specialties, nothing beats the Market. Baked goodies, exotic oils, nut butters, jams and jellies, fish, fruits and vegetables all are delivered direct. Live music, tastings, special events and even visits from farm animals introduce you to the vendors, and the natural source of all the goodness.
Info: www.lansdalefarmersmarket.org
Lansdale Memorial Day Parade
When: Monday, May 25, 9 am
Where: Along Main Street Lansdale
– The commemoration of those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms begins with a parade down Main, starting at Cannon Avenue and concluding with a ceremony at Memorial Park at 10, all sponsored by local veterans’ organizations and honoring those who’ve served.
Info: www.lansdale.org/390/Memorial-Day-Parade
Summer Concert Series
When: Tuesday evenings, May 26 through Aug. 11, 7 pm
Where: Whites Road Park, 400 Whites Rd.
– Nothing’s nicer than a warm summer evening, sitting on a blanket on the lawn, surrounded by trees and enjoying some of the most talented musicians in Whites Road Park’s natural amphitheater. Lansdale’s Parks & Recreation Department hosts its 38th Summer Concert in the Park series, free of charge. This year’s performers:
Info and schedule: www.lansdale.org/146/Activities-Events
Lansdale Day (UPDATED, CURRENTLY STILL ON, FINAL DECISION BY MAY 5)
MESSAGE FOLLOWS: Please know that we have every hope to have and hold Lansdale Day as planned on June 6th. The safety and well-being of our amazing vendors, volunteers and community is at the forefront of every decision we make. This is true for every year we host Lansdale Day, but especially important this year as we face the unknown over the next few weeks. Please know that the Rotary Club of North Penn Board of Directors is monitoring the current Covid-19 situation closely and we are complying with all government regulations during this unprecedented situation. We will be making a final decision by May 5th as to whether or not we will be hosting Lansdale Day this year, which will be based on government regulations in place at that time.
Info: www.rotaryclubofnorthpenn.org
ORIGINAL DETAILS:
When: Saturday, June 6, 10 am to 4 pm
Where: Along West Main Street, downtown Lansdale
– Main Street closes to traffic for a full day of fine arts and crafts in a juried festival, plus blocks filled with vendors and business displays, plus food and music, a new car display, Pet Alley with rescues, supplies and treats, plus lots more family fun. The 42nd annual event is sponsored by The Rotary Club of North Penn, as its major fundraiser to benefit local causes. (See ad page xx)
Under the Lights Car Show
When: Saturday, June 20, starting at 7 pm (rain or shine)
Where: Main Street, downtown Lansdale
– A vast view of internal combustion conveyances from the turn of the 20th century right through modern muscle machines. The hundreds of vehicles on display regularly draw thousands of visitors to town. Hosted by, and for the benefit of, the local heroes of our Fairmount Fire Company.
Info: www.fairmountfireco.com
(Adapted from the Spring-Summer 2020 Issue)
It's a strange year indeed. The present is silent, and the future is uncertain.
Nonetheless, now might be a good time to look forward with anticipation to those events that crowd Lansdale's calendar from late spring right through the Christmas holidays.
Each year we publish this save-the-dates guide. And now more than ever, we remind you that these schedules are all tentative. The International Spring Festival has already been canceled. And Manna's Race to End Hunger is going "virtual."
But we will update this list as information becomes available. So check back often, here and with event organizers, and follow Discover Lansdale’s Facebook page for the latest updates. And we’ll add new events as we become aware. So if your organization is planning something that’s not on our radar, or is changing plans for a currently scheduled event, shoot us a note at info@discoverlansdale.org or use our handy online contact form.
Here's what we know (updated March 23):
Manna Race to End Hunger (UPDATED)
When: Saturday, April 18
Where: Wherever you are
– Manna on Main Street's main fundraiser is adapting to the age of social distancing. The date has moved back a couple weeks (originally April 4), and people are invited to participate "virtually" -- that is, run or walk your registered distance and share a picture on social media. (Maintain a safe space, of course.) Still benefits Manna's mission to end food insecurity in the North Penn area. Details at the link below, or on Manna's Facebook race page.
Info: www.runtheday.com/race/mannarteh/
The International Spring Festival (CANCELED)
MESSAGE FOLLOWS: Dear Friends of ISF, It is with deep sadness that we must cancel the International Spring Festival scheduled for April 18, 2020. We certainly appreciate your ongoing support for the festival and look forward to seeing you next year! Thank you for your understanding and we wish you good health! -- International Spring Festival Executive Board
Info: www.isfconnect.org
(ORIGINAL DETAILS: Saturday, April 18, 11 am to 5 pm, North Penn High School. – Celebrate the rich cultural diversity of the North Penn region. And even more entertainment is on the schedule for the 29th Annual Festival. Fresh from Philly New Year, the Fralinger String Band struts for Mummers glory; other acts include an African fusion band, a Palestinian dance group, a French band, polka, Ukrainian dancers, South Pacific Island dancers, classical strings and belly dancers. Displays and delicacies offer a global view; visit the Fest and see the world.)
First Fridays
When: Every month, May to December, 6:30 to 9:30 pm
Where: All around Downtown Lansdale
– New themes, bands, food, entertainment, vendors and family fun, all sponsored by Discover Lansdale. A first for 2020: Two FF’s in October (due to often-adverse weather in November). And note the earlier scheduling of the mega-popular annual Zombie Walk. This year’s lineup:
- May 1: Lansdale Proud (a Lansdale themed event) -- NO DETERMINATION YET MADE
- June 5: Food Truck Festival
- July 3: Wet and Wild/America Celebration
- Aug. 7: Arts and Music Festival
- Sept. 4: Eagles Kickoff
- Oct. 2: Zombie Walk
- Oct. 30: Halloween and Chili Cookoff
- Dec. 4: Tree Lighting Ceremony and Santa’s House Opens
Lansdale Farmers’ Market
When: Saturdays, May 16 to November 21, 9 am-1 pm (rain or shine)
Where: Penndale Middle School, 400 Penn St., Church Road parking lot
– For the farm-freshest foods and handmade specialties, nothing beats the Market. Baked goodies, exotic oils, nut butters, jams and jellies, fish, fruits and vegetables all are delivered direct. Live music, tastings, special events and even visits from farm animals introduce you to the vendors, and the natural source of all the goodness.
Info: www.lansdalefarmersmarket.org
Lansdale Memorial Day Parade
When: Monday, May 25, 9 am
Where: Along Main Street Lansdale
– The commemoration of those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms begins with a parade down Main, starting at Cannon Avenue and concluding with a ceremony at Memorial Park at 10, all sponsored by local veterans’ organizations and honoring those who’ve served.
Info: www.lansdale.org/390/Memorial-Day-Parade
Summer Concert Series
When: Tuesday evenings, May 26 through Aug. 11, 7 pm
Where: Whites Road Park, 400 Whites Rd.
– Nothing’s nicer than a warm summer evening, sitting on a blanket on the lawn, surrounded by trees and enjoying some of the most talented musicians in Whites Road Park’s natural amphitheater. Lansdale’s Parks & Recreation Department hosts its 38th Summer Concert in the Park series, free of charge. This year’s performers:
- May 26: North Penn High School Jazz Ensembles
- June 2: Montgomery County Concert Band
- June 9: Dibbs & The Detonators
- June 16: RGM Project
- June 23: Bob Lowery Band
- June 30: Tequila Road Band
- July 7: High Noon Band
- July 14: Cabin Dogs
- July 21: One Man Dog
- July 28: Incendio
- August 4 and 11: TBA
Info and schedule: www.lansdale.org/146/Activities-Events
Lansdale Day (UPDATED, CURRENTLY STILL ON, FINAL DECISION BY MAY 5)
MESSAGE FOLLOWS: Please know that we have every hope to have and hold Lansdale Day as planned on June 6th. The safety and well-being of our amazing vendors, volunteers and community is at the forefront of every decision we make. This is true for every year we host Lansdale Day, but especially important this year as we face the unknown over the next few weeks. Please know that the Rotary Club of North Penn Board of Directors is monitoring the current Covid-19 situation closely and we are complying with all government regulations during this unprecedented situation. We will be making a final decision by May 5th as to whether or not we will be hosting Lansdale Day this year, which will be based on government regulations in place at that time.
Info: www.rotaryclubofnorthpenn.org
ORIGINAL DETAILS:
When: Saturday, June 6, 10 am to 4 pm
Where: Along West Main Street, downtown Lansdale
– Main Street closes to traffic for a full day of fine arts and crafts in a juried festival, plus blocks filled with vendors and business displays, plus food and music, a new car display, Pet Alley with rescues, supplies and treats, plus lots more family fun. The 42nd annual event is sponsored by The Rotary Club of North Penn, as its major fundraiser to benefit local causes. (See ad page xx)
Under the Lights Car Show
When: Saturday, June 20, starting at 7 pm (rain or shine)
Where: Main Street, downtown Lansdale
– A vast view of internal combustion conveyances from the turn of the 20th century right through modern muscle machines. The hundreds of vehicles on display regularly draw thousands of visitors to town. Hosted by, and for the benefit of, the local heroes of our Fairmount Fire Company.
Info: www.fairmountfireco.com
HIGHLIGHT: Lansdale Beer Tasting Festival
When: Saturday, June 27, VIP noon-4:30 pm, General Admission 1:30-4:30
Where: 206 W. Fifth St. (Cannoneers Field)
– Eleven years ago, a small group of Lansdale friends with a love for beer and a desire to do good got together to start a fest to raise funds for local causes. Separately, eight years ago, a group of North Penn High grads whose lives had been touched by tragedy formed a foundation to help others through troubled times.
This year, their paths entwine.
The Lansdale Area Fundraising Society (LAFS), which grew the Lansdale Beer Tasting Festival into one of the largest regional fests while donating hundreds of thousands of dollars, is handing off the ball (growler?) to Knights 4 Life, a foundation dedicated to supporting local individuals and families facing issues related to declining health or experiencing profound loss.
“Like-minded organizations, friends with mutual friends, Knights 4 Life were stalwart supporters and volunteers” at the beer fest over the years, as well as a funding recipient, says Laura Smith, vice president of K4L. “It was natural, when LAFS felt the need to change things up, they came to K4L to migrate responsibilities.”
With new organizers, expect some surprises, but count on the kind of camaraderie that always makes this summer Saturday so special. VIP tickets ($60) again get you exclusive entry for the first 90 minutes (starting at noon), unlimited tastings, access to select beers and a commemorative glass; general admission is $45, and designated drivers are $10. Plus food trucks and vendors and music by Mike Greer & Co. Cheers! (Rain or shine.)
Info: www.knights4life.org
Saint Stanislaus Roman Catholic Church Annual Summer Festival
When: Tuesday, Aug. 11 to Saturday, Aug. 15, 6 to 10 pm each evening
Where: On the grounds of St. Stanislaus, 51 Lansdale Ave.
–The carnival comes to town, with rides and midway games, along with food, fun, live bands each night, a beer garden, raffles, a big garage sale and a bake sale. And this year. the popular Escape Room returns. Sponsored by and for the benefit of St. Stans.
Info: www.ststanislaus.com
When: Saturday, June 27, VIP noon-4:30 pm, General Admission 1:30-4:30
Where: 206 W. Fifth St. (Cannoneers Field)
– Eleven years ago, a small group of Lansdale friends with a love for beer and a desire to do good got together to start a fest to raise funds for local causes. Separately, eight years ago, a group of North Penn High grads whose lives had been touched by tragedy formed a foundation to help others through troubled times.
This year, their paths entwine.
The Lansdale Area Fundraising Society (LAFS), which grew the Lansdale Beer Tasting Festival into one of the largest regional fests while donating hundreds of thousands of dollars, is handing off the ball (growler?) to Knights 4 Life, a foundation dedicated to supporting local individuals and families facing issues related to declining health or experiencing profound loss.
“Like-minded organizations, friends with mutual friends, Knights 4 Life were stalwart supporters and volunteers” at the beer fest over the years, as well as a funding recipient, says Laura Smith, vice president of K4L. “It was natural, when LAFS felt the need to change things up, they came to K4L to migrate responsibilities.”
With new organizers, expect some surprises, but count on the kind of camaraderie that always makes this summer Saturday so special. VIP tickets ($60) again get you exclusive entry for the first 90 minutes (starting at noon), unlimited tastings, access to select beers and a commemorative glass; general admission is $45, and designated drivers are $10. Plus food trucks and vendors and music by Mike Greer & Co. Cheers! (Rain or shine.)
Info: www.knights4life.org
Saint Stanislaus Roman Catholic Church Annual Summer Festival
When: Tuesday, Aug. 11 to Saturday, Aug. 15, 6 to 10 pm each evening
Where: On the grounds of St. Stanislaus, 51 Lansdale Ave.
–The carnival comes to town, with rides and midway games, along with food, fun, live bands each night, a beer garden, raffles, a big garage sale and a bake sale. And this year. the popular Escape Room returns. Sponsored by and for the benefit of St. Stans.
Info: www.ststanislaus.com
Founders Day and Festival of the Arts
When: Saturday, Aug. 29, all day, starting at 9 am
Where: All around town
– Sponsored by Discover Lansdale, this is the big annual celebration of the borough’s founding, with open houses, a beer garden, food trucks, family activities and live music; it coincides with Lansdale Borough’s 32nd Annual Festival of the Arts juried show and sale in Memorial Park, 10 am to 4 pm. And as always, the skies light up with the evening’s wrap-up, a spectacular fireworks display.
Info: www.discoverlansdale.org
Lansdale Bike Night
When: Saturday, Sept. 12, 5-11 pm
Where: Along Main Street
– One of the largest one-night bike events in the country, Bike Night is a huge motorcycle show packed with merchandise, music and refreshments alongside some smokin’ hot machines. Sponsored by the Blue Comet Motorcycle Club.
Info: www.bluecometmc.com/lbn
Lansdale Cruise Night
When: Saturday, Sept. 19, 6-10 pm
Where: Along Main Street
– Happy days are here again! Whether you grew up in Lansdale or in another of the thousands of small towns across the USA, you’ll recall with fondness those years when sundown on weekends meant piling into the hottest car in your driveway and cruising real slow down Main. Drivers of all ages with cars from every era join the annual parade of nostalgia.
Info: www.facebook.com/LansdaleCruiseNight/
Oktoberfest/Zer0.5K
When: October (date TBD)
Where: Freight House Lot and along Lansdale streets
– Better start training now: The Race for the Rest of Us is only a few months away! Yes, the Zer0.5k Race (alternately 547 yards or .31 miles) has become a staple of the ultra-marathon scene all across the region. The run for all ages ends at the annual Oktoberfest party held at, and for the benefit of, Discover Lansdale’s restoration project at the historic Reading Freight House on South Broad. Food, drink, games, music and dancing abound, with fun for the whole family. Dates and ticket information will be announced shortly.
Info: www.discoverlansdale.org
Mardi Gras Parade
When: Saturday, Nov. 21, 1 pm
Where: Downtown Lansdale
– This year, the iconic (and entirely mis-named) celebration of the holiday season celebrates its 70th anniversary. And, as always, a small and dedicated cadre of volunteers will work tirelessly to stage an impressive parade to usher Thanksgiving – and Santa – into town. Join us in thanking them one more time for their annual Thanksgiving gift. Next year, the parade marches on under a new committee. But these are huge shoes to fill; if you are interested in volunteering, watch Discover Lansdale’s web page and Facebook feed for details.
Info: www.lansdale.org/400/Mardi-Gras-Parade
When: Saturday, Aug. 29, all day, starting at 9 am
Where: All around town
– Sponsored by Discover Lansdale, this is the big annual celebration of the borough’s founding, with open houses, a beer garden, food trucks, family activities and live music; it coincides with Lansdale Borough’s 32nd Annual Festival of the Arts juried show and sale in Memorial Park, 10 am to 4 pm. And as always, the skies light up with the evening’s wrap-up, a spectacular fireworks display.
Info: www.discoverlansdale.org
Lansdale Bike Night
When: Saturday, Sept. 12, 5-11 pm
Where: Along Main Street
– One of the largest one-night bike events in the country, Bike Night is a huge motorcycle show packed with merchandise, music and refreshments alongside some smokin’ hot machines. Sponsored by the Blue Comet Motorcycle Club.
Info: www.bluecometmc.com/lbn
Lansdale Cruise Night
When: Saturday, Sept. 19, 6-10 pm
Where: Along Main Street
– Happy days are here again! Whether you grew up in Lansdale or in another of the thousands of small towns across the USA, you’ll recall with fondness those years when sundown on weekends meant piling into the hottest car in your driveway and cruising real slow down Main. Drivers of all ages with cars from every era join the annual parade of nostalgia.
Info: www.facebook.com/LansdaleCruiseNight/
Oktoberfest/Zer0.5K
When: October (date TBD)
Where: Freight House Lot and along Lansdale streets
– Better start training now: The Race for the Rest of Us is only a few months away! Yes, the Zer0.5k Race (alternately 547 yards or .31 miles) has become a staple of the ultra-marathon scene all across the region. The run for all ages ends at the annual Oktoberfest party held at, and for the benefit of, Discover Lansdale’s restoration project at the historic Reading Freight House on South Broad. Food, drink, games, music and dancing abound, with fun for the whole family. Dates and ticket information will be announced shortly.
Info: www.discoverlansdale.org
Mardi Gras Parade
When: Saturday, Nov. 21, 1 pm
Where: Downtown Lansdale
– This year, the iconic (and entirely mis-named) celebration of the holiday season celebrates its 70th anniversary. And, as always, a small and dedicated cadre of volunteers will work tirelessly to stage an impressive parade to usher Thanksgiving – and Santa – into town. Join us in thanking them one more time for their annual Thanksgiving gift. Next year, the parade marches on under a new committee. But these are huge shoes to fill; if you are interested in volunteering, watch Discover Lansdale’s web page and Facebook feed for details.
Info: www.lansdale.org/400/Mardi-Gras-Parade
