Blog

Ephrata’s revitalization isn’t happening by accident. The murals brightening our streets, the bike park and bike share drawing riders from across the area, the businesses being recruited to the area, the events that make downtown feel alive — all of it takes hands, hearts, and people who genuinely care about where they live. That's where you come in. Mainspring's volunteer program just got a refresh, and we think you're going to like what you see.

The Ephrata Mountain stands as both a defining feature of our community and an untapped opportunity. Through the proposed Mountain Springs Recreational Preserve, Mainspring is exploring how this natural asset could support downtown economic revitalization while addressing ecological improvements and creating new recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.

America turns 250 in 2026, and Ephrata is marking this milestone in a way that captures who we are – diverse voices coming together to celebrate freedom. The America's 250th Birthday Community Quilt project invites every resident to express what freedom means to them. No artistic perfection required. Just your voice, your perspective, your story woven into our collective celebration.

There are buildings that define a downtown, and then there are buildings that become its heartbeat. The Historic Sprecher Building at 24 East Main Street is undeniably the latter, and we're thrilled to announce it as the star of our 2025 Historic Building Ornament – the fourth edition in Mainspring's collectible series. SOLD OUT!! We will be taking pre-orders for this ornament. When we have enough to order another group. We will purchase the next set of numbered ornaments. Call for more information.

Mark your calendars and get ready for another spectacular year of community celebrations! From spring kickoffs to holiday magic, we've packed 2026 with events that bring our downtown to life. Here's what's coming your way:

There's something magical about standing atop the ridge that overlooks our beloved Ephrata – the same vantage point where the grand Mountain Springs Hotel once welcomed presidents Lincoln, Buchanan, and Grant to our community. Today, that mountain holds the same potential to transform Ephrata's future, and we need your input to make it happen.

In August of 2025, Mainspring's Donors and Partners came together at the Brossman Building downtown to hear about our latest efforts and to listen to a panel of professionals explore revitalization through business, real estate, and design. Click below to learn more about how communities like Columbia, Lancaster, and Lititz work to build and grow their economic communities.

We get this question a lot: Why does Mainspring of Ephrata focus so much time, energy, and funding on Main Street? Don’t you care about the rest of the Borough? Joy Ashley, Executive Director, Mainspring of Ephrata says the answer is a resounding yes—we absolutely care about every neighborhood, every street, and every business across Ephrata. But revitalization doesn't happen all at once or everywhere at the same time. It requires a focused, strategic, and proven approach. Read on for her perspective.

Ready to put your Ephrata knowledge to the test? Mark your calendars for Saturday, September 6th from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. as Mainspring of Ephrata presents the third annual "Explore Ephrata" scavenger hunt – the exciting finale to our beloved First Saturday summer series!

Whether you missed it or just want to relive the Chalk the Walk artwork, we've got you! Take a look below at all the day's fun - and don't forget to visit our events calendar for what's coming next, or sign up to be a volunteer. Mainspring is helping build our community and we want you to be a part of it!