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!
Discover Hidden Gems in Downtown Ephrata
This downtown adventure promises to reveal hidden gems and lesser-known facts about Ephrata’s rich history and vibrant present. Whether you’re a longtime resident or new to our community, you’ll explore the business district with fresh perspective while competing for amazing prizes.
“We wanted to end our First Saturday series with something that really celebrates everything that makes Ephrata special,” says Joy Ashley, Executive Director of Mainspring of Ephrata. “The scavenger hunt gets people looking at familiar places in new ways while discovering details they might have walked past dozens of times.”
How the Scavenger Hunt Works
Starting Location: Whistle Stop Plaza, 16 E. Main Street, Ephrata, PA
Participants will solve clues that lead them throughout downtown Ephrata, taking photos as proof of their discoveries. Each team must designate one camera or phone to document their answers to the clues. We’ve designed challenges suitable for both longtime residents and newcomers to the area, with teams of various sizes accommodated to make it an ideal activity for families, friend groups, and visitors.
Building on Summer Success
The scavenger hunt continues the tradition established by this summer’s incredibly successful First Saturday programming, which has included:
“Back to the Books” literary adventure
“Chalk the Walk” sidewalk art celebration
“The Wine Walk” downtown tour
Each event has drawn hundreds of participants while supporting local businesses and creating meaningful community connections throughout our town.
Party on the Plaza: The Perfect Evening
The afternoon hunt transitions seamlessly into our signature “Party on the Plaza” from 4:30 to 8 p.m., featuring live music and the season’s final gathering at Whistle Stop Plaza. Join us for the festive atmosphere that has made each First Saturday celebration a true community highlight!
Food & Beverage Lineup
Enjoy an incredible selection of local favorites:
Pour Man’s Brewing Company – Craft beer
Old Republic Distillery Ephrata – Local spirits
Ephrata Reading Elks #115 – Beer
Weathered Vineyards – Wine
Rad.ish Food Truck – Creative cuisine
Javateas Gourmet Coffee Cafe – Specialty beverages
Greco’s Italian Ices & Homemade Ice Cream – Sweet treats
Drifter’s – September special addition
Nano Burger – September special addition
Local Artisans & Vendors
Browse unique crafts and goods from local creators, with all retail spaces sold out for our season finale! Find a complete list of food and retail vendors at mainspringofephrata.org.
Supporting Downtown Ephrata Businesses
The scavenger hunt represents the culmination of a summer programming series that has reinforced Mainspring’s mission as an accredited Main Street America program. Each First Saturday event has demonstrated our community’s appetite for family-friendly downtown activities while driving foot traffic to local Ephrata businesses.
“These events show what’s possible when community members come together to support local businesses and celebrate what makes Ephrata unique,” Ashley explains. “The scavenger hunt is the perfect way to cap off a summer of discovery and connection.”
Year-Round Community Events
The September event also serves as a preview of Mainspring’s year-round programming, including:
Veterans Day Luminary Walk
Holiday celebrations
Tree Lighting & Santa’s Arrival
First Saturday events
These events continue to bring the Ephrata community together throughout the seasons, supporting our mission of economic development and community building.
Join the Fun!
Ready to explore downtown Ephrata like never before? Whether you’re competing with family, friends, or fellow community members, the “Explore Ephrata” scavenger hunt promises an afternoon of discovery, fun, and community connection.
Event Details:
Date: Saturday, September 6, 2025
Time: 2:30-4:30 p.m. (Scavenger Hunt) | 4:30-8:00 p.m. (Party on the Plaza)
Location: Start at the Whistle Stop Plaza, 16 E. Main Street, Ephrata, PA
Cost: FREE
For complete event details, registration information, and our full calendar of community events, visit mainspringofephrata.org.
Looking for more ways to get involved in the Ephrata community? Discover volunteer opportunities, upcoming events, and ways to support local businesses at mainspringofephrata.org. Follow us on social media for the latest updates on downtown Ephrata events and initiatives!