Editor’s Note
We have reached the Super Bowl of grocery shopping.
If you haven’t secured your turkey yet, may the odds be ever in your favor. This week is a strange mix of frantic preparation—cleaning the baseboards for guests who won't notice them—and the genuine warmth of gathering together.
Whether you are hosting the whole extended family or packing the car to drive over the river and through the woods, the goal this week isn't perfection. It’s survival, with a side of pie.
This weekend guide is designed to help you navigate the holiday, burn off the stuffing, and kick off the festive season in the city.
Happy Thanksgiving to you and your flock.
THE WEEKEND PLANNER
🦃 Thanksgiving is Here!
Lancaster Thanksgiving Day Run
When: Thursday (Thanksgiving Morning), 8:00 AM
Where: Penn Square, Downtown Lancaster
Cost: Registration fee (Spectating is free)
Ages: All ages (Stroller friendly for walkers)
The Takeaway: It’s a local tradition. Even if you aren't running, bringing the kids to cheer on the costumed runners in downtown is a great way to start the holiday energy before the food coma hits.
Mayor’s Tree Lighting & Tuba Christmas
When: Friday, 5:00 PM (Arrival), Lighting at 6:30 PM
Where: Penn Square
Cost: Free
Ages: All ages
The Takeaway: This is the official start of the holidays in the city. Expect a massive crowd, live music, and the arrival of Santa. Pro-tip: Park in a garage early and walk over.
Small Business Saturday in Lititz
When: Saturday, All Day (Shops open 10:00 AM)
Where: Main Street & Broad Street, Lititz
Cost: Free to walk
Ages: All ages
The Takeaway: Lititz goes all out. It’s walkable, festive, and a much more pleasant way to shop than fighting the crowds at the big box stores.
Christmas at the Star Barn
When: Friday & Saturday, 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Where: Stone Gables Estate, Elizabethtown
Cost: Vehicle entrance fee / Ticketed activities
Ages: Toddler to Elementary
The Takeaway: A drive-through light show that is easy on the parents because you stay in the warm car, plus options to get out for the train display if you have the energy.
WORTH THE DRIVE
The "Post-Feast" Hike at Kelly’s Run
After a day of eating heavy food and being indoors, everyone usually gets a little stir-crazy by Friday or Saturday.
Kelly’s Run Nature Preserve in Holtwood is the perfect antidote. It offers a 3.8-mile loop that is challenging enough to feel like a workout but manageable for active elementary-aged kids. The scenery includes streams, giant rocks to climb, and quiet woods.
Know before you go: It can be muddy this time of year, so boots are a must. It’s not stroller-friendly; you’ll need a carrier for little ones. The trailhead has parking, but no restrooms, so plan accordingly.
LOCAL HIGHLIGHT
Bird-in-Hand Bakery & Cafe
If you realized at the last minute that you don't actually know how to bake a pumpkin pie, don't panic. Bird-in-Hand Bakery is the local gold standard for a reason.
While they are famous for their whoopie pies, their wet-bottom shoofly pie and classic pumpkin pies are incredible. It’s a heavy tourist spot in the summer, but locals know it’s the savior of Thanksgiving dinner. Be prepared for a line if you go on Wednesday—everyone else has the same idea.
LOCAL HIGHLIGHT
The "Butcher Paper" Tablecloth
If you are hosting kids and adults at the same table (or just want to keep the "Kids Table" from imploding), skip the fancy linens.
The Fix: Cover the table in brown Kraft paper (butcher paper). Tape it down. Put a cup of crayons or washable markers in the center.
Draw "place settings" for them to find their seat.
Write prompts near their plates: "I am thankful for..." or "Draw your favorite food."
Tool of the Week: Conversation Starter Cards. If the family dynamic gets awkward, have a deck of "Would You Rather" questions for kids. It keeps the conversation fun and steers clear of politics.
Until next week,
The team at Parents of Lancaster