Celebrate Community at Intercourse Heritage Days
The name of the beloved Amish-country community — Intercourse, Pennsylvania — might elicit giggles because of its unintentional double entendre. No one knows for sure the origins of the town's amusing name, although there are a few theories. One thought is that it comes an old racetrack whose entrance was dubbed "entercourse." Other theories involve the intersection of two highways or the old English meaning of a word that signifies friendship. No matter the roots of its name, Intercourse is a friendly, peaceful and warm community that is worth celebrating. And that's exactly what the community does each year in June at Intercourse Heritage Days.
Intercourse Heritage Days got its start when the town commemorated its 250th anniversary in 2004. Now, 20 years later, the annual festival is still going strong. In 2024, the two-day event will be held June 14-15 at Intercourse Community Park, located about 5 miles from After Eight Bed and Breakfast. Come and experience local food, music, history and community.
The objective of Intercourse Heritage Days is to reflect back to a simpler time. That's why the majority of the festival's activities focus on good, old-fashioned fun. There's a strolling magician, a juggling show, and hands-on demonstrations by artisans in wood carving and horseshoeing. The annual volleyball tournament draws as many as 70 teams and a ton of spectators. Or sign up for the corn hole tournament. New this year is a state-of-the-art, musically timed laser show to end the festivities on Saturday night. A full schedule of events is available here.
It wouldn't be a festival without the food. Saturday morning's pancake breakfast at the Intercourse Fire Co. is always popular and delicious. The festival's food court features local favorites like grilled sausage sandwiches by Stoltzfus Meats, hand-rolled soft pretzels by Immergut, ice cream by Lapp Valley Dairy and much more. When your belly is full, take time to enjoy live bluegrass music from the Ironwood Drive Band and gospel music by The Churchmen.
Year after year, Intercourse Heritage Days brings residents, visitors and even Amish neighbors together to celebrate the town's rich heritage, traditions and community pride. Stay with us at After Eight Bed and Breakfast and enjoy a hometown festival with great food and fun. There's no better way to experience Intercourse, Pennsylvania's welcoming spirit and close-knit community.
