Agricultural York
2026-01-06 18:30 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | York County History Center Museum, 121 North Pershing Ave., York, PA, 17401, United States
Learn about the people, places and things connected to local agriculture. Each session highlights different organizations within the agricultural community like family farms, wineries, apiaries and Penn State Extension.
This month we will highlight York Fresh Food Farms and the Horn Farm Center.
York Fresh Food Farms
York Fresh Food Farms’ core focus is growing healthy food. They are committed to improving access to affordable, healthy, fresh food for everyone in our community, especially for families living in poverty and in food desert neighborhoods. York Fresh Food Farms is growing food right here in the City of York, making fresh, farm-grown produce available– at affordable prices – so that all members of our community can eat a healthy diet.
Horn Farm Center
An outcome of local efforts to preserve historic York County farmland, the Horn Farm Center serves the community today as a hub for agricultural and ecological education. With a mission to foster ecological learning through land stewardship, community partnership, and hands-on experiences, the nonprofit–based in Hellam–offers year-round classes, events, and volunteer opportunities that connect people with the land. While today’s visitors can learn about regenerative agriculture, environmental restoration, foraging, and locally-based living, the 186-acre farm also bears a rich history reflecting 200 years of York County agriculture.

Second Saturday January
2026-01-10 10:30 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | York County History Center Museum, 121 North Pershing Ave., York, PA, 17401, United States
Author Michael C. Harris joins us for our first Second Saturday of 2026 to present and sign copies of his new book, Fighting for Philadelphia. Kick start your America250 celebrations when you attend Second Saturday on January 10, 2026.
Michael C. Harris is a graduate of the University of Mary Washington and the American Military University. He has worked for the National Park Service in Fredericksburg, Virginia, Fort Mott State Park in New Jersey, and the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission at Brandywine Battlefield. Mike has conducted tours and staff rides of many of the East Coast battlefields and is certified and currently teaches in the Philadelphia region. He lives in Pennsylvania with his wife Michelle and son Nathanael. His first book, Brandywine, was awarded the American Revolution Round Table of Richmond Book Award in 2014.

Spirits of the Past
2026-01-16 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | York County History Center Museum, 121 North Pershing Ave., York, PA, 17401, United States
Enjoy an unforgettable night at the History Center with our historic mixology program! This month we are excited to lean into America’s 250th this year and our cocktail selection is representative of the 18th Century with posset and flip. Join us to party like it is 1776!

This program is for individuals 21+.

History Center will be closed Sunday
2026-01-25
With the forecast for a major winter storm this weekend, the History Center will be closed Sunday, Jan. 25. We expect to be open again starting Tuesday, Jan. 27.

Treasures and Trinkets
2026-02-06 17:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | York County History Center Museum, 121 North Pershing Ave., York, PA, 17401, United States
The Friends of the History Center present the second Treasures & Trinkets jewelry sale, a fundraiser for the Friends to support the History Center. The Friends collect gently used fashion, vintage and fine jewelry and other accessories for women and offer them for purchase. The sale is offered just in time for Valentine’s Day in the third-floor Warehime Room of the History Center. The sale begins at 5 p.m. Friday with an early sale party featuring wine and chocolate. Admission is $10, and you pay at the door. The sale continues Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and admission is free. Both days are open to the general public.

First Friday - February
2026-02-06 17:30 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | York County History Center Museum, 121 North Pershing Ave., York, PA, 17401, United States
Enjoy two hours of free-to-play board games in the museum. For those 21 and older, you will be given two tickets to be traded in for an alcoholic beverage. Beer tickets are $8 per person and sold at the door.

Museum Galleries are closed this evening!

Treasures and Trinkets
2026-02-07 10:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | York County History Center Museum, 121 North Pershing Ave., York, PA, 17401, United States
The Friends of the History Center present the second Treasures & Trinkets jewelry sale, a fundraiser for the Friends to support the History Center. The Friends collect gently used fashion, vintage and fine jewelry and other accessories for women and offer them for purchase. The sale is offered just in time for Valentine’s Day in the third-floor Warehime Room of the History Center. Day 2 of the sale is on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and admission is free and open to the general public.

Second Saturday- February
2026-02-14 10:30 - 14:30 (America/New_York) | York County History Center Museum, 121 North Pershing Ave., York, PA, 17401, United States
Take part in a day of family fun and learning with our quarterly Second Saturday Family Day! The History Center Museum holds many stories and artifacts, Family Day-Black History Month will allow attendees a chance to explore York’s Black history through hands on activities in our lobby and galleries.
Activities for the day

Storytime– Books selected from York County Libraries, visit their website to reserve books.
Hit it out of the park– Learn about York’s baseball history and the Black community when you make your own paper plate baseball.
Scavenger Hunt– Visit the galleries to discover national and local stories tied to the accomplishments of the Black community.
History Maker Matching– Match the York History Maker with their life story.
Special guests– Friends of Lebanon Cemetery will be in the lobby with a children’s activity.
More activities

Children may not be left unattended when taking part in the activities.
Activities available while supplies last.

Fastnacht Day with the Friends
2026-02-17 10:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | York County History Center Museum, 121 North Pershing Ave., York, PA, 17401, United States
Visit the History Center Museum and join the celebration of this Pennsylvania Dutch tradition with the Friends of the History Center! The Friends will distribute complimentary fastnachts, a traditional Pennsylvania Dutch treat made by deep-frying donuts, often crafted with potatoes. Don’t miss out on this tasty opportunity to chat with the Friends and learn more about the History Center.

Miss Lydia's Church
2026-02-21 13:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York) | York County History Center Museum, 121 North Pershing Ave., York, PA, 17401, United States
In January 1924, in the middle of a snowstorm, in the middle of the night, four people, two sets of strangers, came together. Two were White; two were Black. Two were female; two were male. Two were steeped in religion; two were centered in astronomy. All were wishing for better relations between the races. What brought these strangers together? Was it a moon phase or a planetary shift or something deeper and farther away?
Join us February 21 to learn more about Miss Lydia’s Church written by Dr. Dorothy King. This play reading will be presented in connection with PenOwl Productions.

Doors open at 12:30 pm
View our Play flyer.

Coffee & Conversation
2026-02-25 18:30 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | York County History Center Museum, 121 North Pershing Ave., York, PA, 17401, United States
The focus will be The American Revolution by Ken Burns
Please note we suggest you watch The American Revolution by Ken Burns on PBS. There is an additional fee through the PBS Passport app if you did not watch the series when it premiered. If you are planning to view the docuseries, PBS provides an episode guide you may want to view here.
Each session will have a different focus and materials to view prior to the program which is mentioned above. This program is recommended attendees are high school age students and adults. It is $5 per person and History Center Members are free to attend. Registration is required to attend this program, you can register at the link in this section.
Coffee and tea will be provided for attendees.
Registration ends on February 24 at 6:30 PM.

First Friday- March
2026-03-06 18:00 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | York County History Center Museum, 121 North Pershing Ave., York, PA, 17401, United States
Test your knowledge of historic events, pop culture, and more when you attend Trivia & Tacos March 6 at the History Center Museum. Taco supplies will be provided to attendees, tacos available while supplies last.
Trivia is recommended for ages 16 and up.
This activity was made possible in part by a Downtown Inc First Friday Grant, sponsored by WellSpan Health.
Museum Galleries are closed this evening!

Closing Early
2026-03-10 15:00 (America/New_York) | York County History Center Museum, 121 North Pershing Ave., York, PA, 17401, United States
The History Center Museum is closing at 3 pm on Tuesday, March 10 in preparation for Travels with Darley visits York County, PA at the Appell Center for the Performing Arts. The History Center’s very own Dr. Valerie Long will be a part of the panel during the program. For more information look below.

From Explore York
Join Explore York for a special screening of Travels with Darley, the PBS series hosted by Emmy-award-winning television host, writer, and producer Darley Newman. Enjoy an exclusive look at the episode titled “Communities That Shaped America.” This episode showcases York County’s historic sites, local attractions, and memorable food and drink experiences. A panel featuring Darley herself and others featured in the episode will share some behind-the-scenes insights about how we brought York County’s rich history and hospitality to life for a national audience. Light refreshments provided, including popcorn courtesy of The Popcorn Loft. This event will take place in the Capitol Theatre at the Appell Center for the Performing Arts and is free and open to the public. Please RSVP by March 6. Register at EventBrite here.

Agricultural York- March
2026-03-10 18:30 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | York County History Center Museum, 121 North Pershing Ave., York, PA, 17401, United States
Presentation by Judy Grove and Cindy Pizziketti (Wallace Cross Mill docents)

In this session, Judy Grove will highlight the historical significance and operations of the Wallace Cross Mill as it celebrates its bicentennial anniversary. Following this, Cindy Pizziketti will share the story of the two Wallace sisters who ran the mill for 30 years. Having taken over operations during the Civil War, the sisters were among the many unsung women who kept the country running during that era. Ms. Grove and Ms. Pizziketti will bring a portable corn sheller and allow attendees to grind wheat kernels. Some sweet treats will be provided by our presenters with buckwheat that was processed at the Wallace Cross Mill. This is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the work of the Wallace sisters, mill docents, and other who have contributed to maintaining the Wallace Cross Mill for 200 years.

Second Saturday- March
2026-03-14 11:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York) | Continental Square, 1 E Market St,, York, PA, 17401, United States
In March we are making our way to Continental Square for the Saint Patrick’s Day parade as they celebrate their 40th year. Find us for a history related children’s activity with our Manager of School Programs, Valerie Long, Ph.D.
Parade begins at 1 pm
More details coming soon. No registration needed!

Seasonal Sites Re-open
2026-04-04
The Fire Museum and Colonial Complex will re-open for the 2026 season on Saturday, April 4.
Days of the week to keep in mind when visiting our seasonal sites: Tuesday through Saturday we offer tours of the Colonial Complex, and Saturdays the Fire Museum is open. You can explore the Gates House, Plough Tavern and the Colonial Courthouse by taking our staff-led tour, which is timed and can be added to your visit experience. To purchase your admission ticket, visit our ticket sales page or purchase your tickets upon arrival.

Manufacturing York
2026-04-07 18:30 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | York County History Center Museum, 121 North Pershing Ave., York, PA, 17401, United States
Caroline Travers, Manager of Public Programs gives a manufacturing focused tour of the History Center Museum. This will be a brief guided tour experience and there will be a discussion to follow.

The galleries will not be open for self exploration, this is only a guided experience.

Public Tour Cancelation
2026-04-08 11:00 - 12:00, 2026-04-09 11:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | Colonial Complex, 157 W. Market St., York, PA, 17401, United States
We have a private group visiting, please consider visiting us for Colonial Complex tours at 2 pm.

Closing Early
2026-04-11 12:00 (America/New_York)
The History Center Museum is closing at noon on Saturday, April 11, in preparation for A Date With History later that evening. Please consider visiting the History Center Museum and Colonial Complex before noon and continue your visit at the Agricultural and Industrial Museum or Fire Museum. Due to the early closure, we will only have an 11 a.m. Colonial Complex tour.
A Date With History is sold out! Please join the waitlist at the link here or make a donation here.

A Date With History
2026-04-11 18:00 - 22:00 (America/New_York)
This event is sold out! Please join the waitlist at the link above or make a donation here.
When York Continental Congress delegate and future signer of the Declaration of Independence James Smith gave York’s first public reading of the Declaration, he realized that many people didn’t yet understand why it mattered or what independence would truly mean for them. So, he did something remarkable: He explained it, connecting bold ideals to real lives and real communities.
Today, that spirit continues.
We invite you to join us for “Independence: More Than A Moment” and celebrate 250 years of promise, progress, and possibility at a special evening that brings American independence to life through many voices and perspectives.
Dazzling Cocktails
Sumptuous Dinner
(Choice of):
Liberty Reserve Beef – Red wine-braised beef tips
Heritage Chicken Lorelle – Grilled chicken with veg in a delicate herb cream
Penne in a Blush of Independence – Penne with vodka cream sauce (v) (GF upon request)
Exciting live auction
Celebrations and surprises
Enjoy a sneak peek at some of the artifacts from our “Revolutionary York” exhibit opening this summer!
Attire:Formal cocktail.
Red, white, & blue optional
Your support helps illuminate the past, spark meaningful conversation, and ensure York’s stories continue to inspire generations to come. Be part of the legacy at this unforgettable celebration of independence and York’s revolutionary history.
For sponsorship information for companies and individuals, click here.
Ready to be a sponsor? Complete the pledge form here to make it official.
If you want to volunteer at the event, sign up here.
Questions? Contact Amy Serafino, CFRE, Vice President, Advancement, at:
aserafino@yorkhistorycenter.org

South Central Pa. Genealogical Society
2026-04-12 14:30 - 15:30 (America/New_York)
Sunday April 12 – Alicia Forry – Remembering the Revolutionary War Veterans of Prospect Hill Cemetery
This program will be held in person and also on Zoom.
In-Person Registration
Zoom registration
This presentation will explore the histories of Revolutionary War veterans interred at York’s historic Prospect Hill Cemetery. Presenter Alicia Forry serves as Administration Supervisor and Foundation Secretary at Prospect Hill, where she conducts history tours and has researched all veterans buried there. Two years ago, she began in-depth work on Revolutionary War veterans.
Upcoming Programs
Sunday May 3 – Aaron McWilliams – Navigating Pennsylvania’s Revolutionary War Militia Records
Sunday June 14 – Henry James Young Awards

York Civil War Roundtable
2026-04-15 19:00 - 20:30 (America/New_York) | York County History Center Museum, 121 North Pershing Ave., York, PA, 17401, United States
April 15, 2026 – Peter Miele – The Mifflin Farm: A Place of Courage, Conflict, and Conscience
This program will be in person and available on Zoom.
In person registration
Zoom registration
On a knoll overlooking the Susquehanna River in Wrightsville, Quakers Jonathan and Susanna Wright Mifflin built their home at the dawn of the 19th century. Quickly, this home took center stage in the regional conflict over slavery. Courageous freedom seekers, escaping the brutality of bondage, found refuge within the walls of the Mifflin Home for more than thirty years. In the summer of 1863, the Civil War came to Wrightsville as thousands of Confederates attempted to cross the Columbia-Wrightsville Bridge into Lancaster County but were stopped by courageous local militiamen on the Mifflin Farm. One hundred and fifty-five years later, conflict returned to the farm when the property was threatened by demolition. The community rallied and saved this treasure, soon to be the Susquehanna Discovery Center & Heritage Park, a world-class visitor destination celebrating the nationally important stories of York and Lancaster Counties.
Peter Miele is Senior Project Leader at Susquehanna National Heritage Area, directing the development of the Susquehanna Discovery Center & Heritage Park in Wrightsville, PA, and an adjunct faculty member at York College of Pennsylvania. Previously, Miele worked at Seminary Ridge Museum & Education Center in Gettysburg for more than eleven years, including four years as President & Executive Director. He earned his BA in History and Secondary Education from Ramapo College of New Jersey, and an MA in Applied History from Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania. His scholarship has appeared in Pennsylvania History and Gettysburg Magazine. Currently a student in the Ph.D. program in American Studies at Penn State, Harrisburg, he is working on a dissertation that examines Gettysburg’s Eternal Light Peace Memorial in history, memory, and myth.

Public Tour Cancelation
2026-04-16 11:00 - 12:00, 2026-04-22 11:00 - 12:00, 2026-04-29 11:00 - 12:00, 2026-04-30 11:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York)

Go Green in the City
2026-04-18 10:00 - 12:00 UTC | Colonial Complex, 157 W. Market St., York, PA, 17401, United States
Visit us at the Colonial Courthouse during Go Green in the City from 10 am until noon. This is a chance to get a glimpse into the Colonial Courthouse, no formal tours will be provided during this time but you are welcome to ask our guide(s) questions.
Other details about Go Green in the City can be found on Downtown York’s website here.

Tour Cancelation
2026-04-18 11:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York)
We do not have an 11 am public tour on April 18 due to Go Green in the City. If you are looking to visit the Colonial Courthouse, we will be open for free from 10 am until noon. In the case you want to attend our Colonial Complex tour visit our ticket calendar to reserve a spot for the 2 pm tour.

Spirits of the Past
2026-04-24 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | York County History Center Museum, 121 North Pershing Ave., York, PA, 17401, United States
Enjoy an unforgettable night at the History Center with our historic mixology program! As we celebrate April as National Gardening Month attendees will enjoy the Aviation and make their own Elderflower Mojito.
