Spirits of the Past

Volunteer for Keep PA Beautiful

Saturday, July 19, is Keep PA Beautiful Day, and we’re looking for lots of helpers to work on volunteer projects. You will be doing cleaning, painting, repairs and more to the Colonial Complex sites in preparation for America’s 250th anniversary in 2026. All volunteers will receive a free T-shirt, and we’ll have FREE donuts, pizza, coffee and water for everybody. To register: Click on the link below; click on Contact Information and fill in the boxes; click on Saturday, July 19, and scroll down to York and pick a shift.

Go to the sign-up form now.

Enjoy an unforgettable night at the History Center with our historic mixology program! This beloved program series, Spirits of the Past, we combine history and mixology by focusing on a theme or historic period each program. Each program we also highlight any York connections to the cocktails, and alcohol. Spirits of the Past began in 2022 and has served 20 historic cocktails to date for attendees. Attendees have taken part in making the Mary Pickford, Irish Coffee, and Cherry Bounce Sours to just name a few. Our program sessions include at least one alcoholic beverage with guided instruction, light refreshments and of course the history of the beverage. Tickets are $35 for nonmembers and $25 for members.

Event Featured Image Public Programs (8)

Our 2025 Schedule

March 21

Join us as we celebrate Women’s History with a focus on female bartenders, their cocktails and more!

Our cocktails were the Hanky Panky and the Cosmopolitan.

August 22

We return back to the prohibition era for another session of Spirits of the Past! Cocktail selection and registration are coming soon.

October 24

Join us as we find a spooky twist to cocktails!

Reserve your seat today!

Fri, Aug 22 at 7:00pm

Spirits of the Past

Prohibition Era Cocktails

Drink your way through the history of prohibition with 1 batched cocktail and 1 cocktail class attendees will make. Cocktail selection will be shared soon. This program is for individuals 21 and older. Tickets go on sale in July.

Event Details

Attendees make their own mint juleps at the Colonial Complex using fresh mint from the Colonial garden
Group of attendees learning about the significance of Jameson Whiskey in the Irish Maid.
Eggnog and Sorrel cocktail were enjoyed by all.
Christine pours guest’s whisky for cocktail.
Attendees listen to Valerie speak about Milk Punch.
Selfie time, attendees shared this photo with us on social media from our Sips of Summer session.
Valerie highlights the batched drink of the evening Roman Punch.
Attendees enjoying their freshly made cocktail.