As we continue our quest to “grow economy” and “build community,” we’re excited to share how we’re bringing the two goals together with First Saturday! Our First Saturday events celebrate the Ephrata community throughout the downtown area all Summer long. See details on all the events below.
Upcoming…
In June we’re bringing back the Wine Walk with more wineries! From 2:30-4:30, join in as local vintners set up tasting rooms within our brick-and-mortar businesses. Taste your way up and down Main Street as you shop and get to know the entrepreneurs who keep our town moving.
Wineries joining us ~(updated daily)
Wine Walk doesn’t require tickets but we would LOVE to know you’re coming! RSVP below!
In July we’re beautifying Main Street again with Chalk the Walk! From 11 am-4:30 pm, Sign up here for your sidewalk ‘canvas’ pick up your sidewalk chalk, and get creative. Groups and individuals are welcome to participate – start planning now!
With the first day of school right around the corner, it’s time for Back to the Books! All of Main Street turns into a book 2:30-4:30 pm! Our businesses feature pages from great books that families can read by going from shop to shop. All kids receive school supplies at each stop and a copy of the featured book at the end of the route. Llama is back with the next book in the series, Llama Unleashes The Alpacalypse! Writer Jonathan Stutzman and illustrator Heather Fox will also be joining us again at the train station!
Back to the Books doesn’t require tickets but we would LOVE to know you’re coming! RSVP below!
How well do you know Ephrata? Our last First Saturday is a crazy one! The Second Annual Scavenger Hunt, 2:30-4:30 pm, tests your knowledge against your fellow residents and visitors. Can you find the answers to all the clues? More details to come.
The Scavenger Hunt does not require tickets, but we would LOVE to know you’re coming! RSVP below!
We’re also excited to announce that the Historic Conservation Trust of the Ephrata Area has graciously decided to open the Caboose at the Whistle Stop Plaza for tours on First Saturdays. If you’ve ever wondered what’s inside, stop in from 4:00-8:00 p.m. to see!
Whistle Stop Plaza 4:30-8:00 PMAt 4:30, switch gears and join us at the Whistle Stop Plaza for a unique experience that brings together the local community for a FREE fun event where friends, family, and neighbors have the opportunity to gather in a festive atmosphere while enjoying the live music (dancing too!), local food vendors, and adult beverages. Local retail vendors offer a personal shopping experience for all attendees.
Food is also a mainstay of the evening event. There’s a great assortment of things to eat at any one event!
This event is family-friendly. Must be 21+ to enjoy an Adult Beverage (bring your ID… you could be 75 years old & using a walker & you will still need to show ID to consume Alcohol) Adult Beverages must stay within the boundaries of the event.
In the event of inclement weather, the events will be canceled.
We LOVE our Vendors!
Mainspring of Ephrata is excited to be hosting First Saturday again in 2024. While all of us (the organizers, volunteers, vendors, food trucks, musicians, and the public) have a role to play when it comes to promoting the event, we recognize that the MAIN responsibility for this effort falls to us, the organizers!
We’ll be building off past events’ success, with OVER 500 people attending any given month & great feedback from vendors & attendees. We have a robust marketing program to bring out even more attendees each month!
We hope you’ll consider joining us! Together we can make this a fun & profitable community event!
In the event of inclement weather, this year we will be canceling the event.
Vendors updated daily!
Pour Man’s Brewing – ALL DATES!
Old Republic Distillery Ephrata – ALL DATES!
Ephrata Reading Elks Lodge 115 – ALL DATES!
Weathered Vineyards – ALL DATES!
Rad.ish Food Truck – ALL DATES!
Strada Cafe – June, July & August
Stosh’s LLC – July & August
Drifter’s – June & Sept
Nano Burger – Sept
Greco’s Italian Ices & Homemade Ice Cream – ALL DATES!
Javateas Gourmet Coffee Cafe – ALL DATES!
Vendors updated daily!
Sugarplum Country – June, Aug & Sept
Crafted From Faith – ALL DATES!
Hello Dia – ALL DATES!
E Rae Crochet – ALL DATES!
Creations by Ali – ALL DATES!
Big Wick Energy – June
Salty Cowgirls Hat Bar – July
StardustedTea – June
Creators Hair Studio – ALL DATES!
Creator Barber Shop – ALL DATES!
Emma’s Closet – June & July
Lavender Acres Winery – ALL DATES!
Nissley Vineyards – June
We had such a good time at the Whistle Stop on Saturday night. We saw many friends, ate great food, had some good drinks and just loved the atmosphere provided by the band!!
Thanks for all the time and devotion to those who planned, set up, and cleaned up afterward!! Nicely done!!
~ Beth
Caulfield’s Radio – June 7, 2024
Welcome Caulfield’s Radio!
The four-man group derives its name from the pages of JD Salinger’s Catcher in the Rye and creates a dynamic and tension-heavy sound that reflects the angst and rebellion found in the classic novel.
Chris Rafter – July 5, 2025
Welcome Chris Rafter!
Singer/Songwriter Chris Rafter has a voice and sound that sets him apart in the music industry. Growing up in Philadelphia and 
California has led to life experiences that have driven his lyrics and tone. He’s been inspired by many artists, but Nirvana is held close to his heart. Cover songs become his own, and he will also mix in some of his melodic originals. Rafter’s shows leave people wanting more. He doesn’t just put on a show but gives you a performance that makes you feel- and that’s exactly what art should do.
Dani LaCour – August 2, 2025
Welcome Dani LaCour!
Dani LaCour is a Louisiana native and powerhouse singer-songwriter known for her blend of alt-country and southern rock. With her soulful voice and dynamic stage presence, she brings both original music and fresh covers to life. Over the years, she’s had the privilege of opening for and sharing the stage with some of her biggest influences, including Jaryd Lane, Dustin Sonnier, Miranda Lambert, and Maren Morris. Whether performing to an intimate crowd or rocking a festival stage, Dani is a true force in the southern music scene.
Sound Method – September 7, 2024
Welcome Back Sound Method!
3 guys. Playing music. Eating Taco Bell. Getting shredded cheese in Zach’s glove box.
Scott & Jan Eaby
16 E. Main Street
Ephrata, PA 17522
Phone: (717) 721-6196
Email: lisa@mainspringofephrata.org
Have Questions or Suggestions?
email: lisa@mainspringofephrata.org