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Historic market · Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Lancaster Central Market
Covered market from 1889 in downtown Lancaster, heir to a colonial-era fair, with stalls run by county producers, sweets and foods from Pennsylvania German tradition.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Lancaster Central Market
Lancaster Central Market has operated in the same location since the 18th century, when the town set aside land for a farmers’ fair. The current brick building, with towers and a high roof, was built in 1889 and is considered the oldest continuously operating farmers’ market in the United States.
Inside, dozens of stalls sell fruit, vegetables, meats, cheeses, flowers and breads from county farms, many run by Amish and Mennonite families. There are also foods from Pennsylvania German cuisine, such as whoopie pie and shoofly pie, as well as stalls offering cuisines from other countries.
The market sits beside Penn Square, the town’s central square, where the Soldiers and Sailors monument and 19th-century buildings stand. Around it, the downtown streets host galleries, shops and cafés.
The market is open on only a few days each week and is usually busiest on Saturday mornings.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
One to two hours.
Best time
In the morning on market days, when the stalls are fully stocked. Saturday is the busiest day.
How to get there
It is on Penn Square, downtown, about 2 km from the train station. There are public parking garages on nearby blocks.
Tip
Check opening days before you go. Carry small change: some stalls do not accept cards.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Lancaster Central Market
What days is Lancaster Central Market open?
Generally on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, in the morning and early afternoon. Confirm before you go.
What to buy at Lancaster Central Market?
Products from county farms, cheeses, breads and sweets from Pennsylvania German tradition, such as the whoopie pie.
Is Lancaster Central Market the oldest in the United States?
It’s considered the country’s oldest continuously operating farmers’ market, with roots in the 18th century.