Welcome to First Saturdays! 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 Saturdays Scheduled for June 3, July 1, August 5, September 2 in Downtown Ephrata! Start your day with Wellness at the Whistlestop, then join our Main Street businesses for Party on Main, and end it with Party on the Plaza. See details on all the events below.
Many people know about and have attended our Party on the Plaza events. Since 2017, these monthly parties, held from 4:30-8:00 pm, have provided a unique experience that brings together the local community for a FREE, fun event where friends, family, and neighbors gather in a festive atmosphere while enjoying live music, dancing, local food vendors, and adult beverages. Additionally, local retail vendors offer a personal shopping experience for all attendees at the Whistlestop Plaza.
2023 brings the fun to ALL of downtown Main Street as Party on the Plaza expands to First Saturdays with the addition of Wellness at the Whistlestop and Party on Main.
Wellness at the Whistlestop 9:30-10:15 AM. June 3 & 17, July 1 & 15, 2023
EpitomeFit has a passion for helping people transform their health into what their highest obtainable level looks like for them. Get your day off to a great start as they lead an exercise class at the Whistlestop Plaza followed by a brief session on healthy living. Bring a mat, towel, and water.
Party on Main from 2:30-4:30 PM
Join us for themed ‘walks’ that bring attendees to our businesses up and down Main Street while visiting key stops along the planned, themed route. Our local brick and mortar companies will now be able to take advantage of the extra foot traffic generated by our Party on the Plaza events. First Saturdays will give them the opportunity to introduce themselves to our residents and visitors as never before. Here are the monthly themes:
June 3, 2023 Wine Walk
Visit these 5 local Wineries that will have portable tasting rooms set up inside of some of our Main Street businesses. Sample different wines and get to know the downtown businesses. Pick a spot to start, get your map of participating locations and sip the day away. Visit all 5 wineries, get your map stamped and bring it to the Party on the Plaza for a chance to win bottles of wine, gift baskets and more! Corked bottles will be available for purchase. Event is Free! 21 and over only.
Benigna’s Creek Vineyard and Winery — Sheldon’s Gallery
Grandview Vineyard — Revive
Harvest Ridge Winery — Friendly Mini Mart
Thorn Hill Vineyards — Liberty Tax
Weathered Vineyards — Scratch Bakes
July 1, 2023 Christmas in July
We kind of have a thing for Christmas. Get a special preview of what’s coming for this year’s 100th Tree Lighting Celebration, learn how you can participate and maybe even get a jumpstart on planning your holiday season.
August 5, 2023 Back to the Books!
As Summer starts to come to an end, bring the kids (18 and under) and visit our local businesses hosting story times and get a free back pack and books!
September 2, 2023 Explore Ephrata
The ultimate scavenger hunt. Where will you find the answers to the clues? Join in the fun, visit our participating shops and be the first to return with all digital proof for a special surprise.
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, be sure to stop in from 3:00-8:00 p.m. to see!
Click here for complete details on the First Saturdays Party on the Plaza events. If you are a food, beverage, or retail vendor that would like to participate, click on the appropriate link to reach out to us.