This summer, Lancaster County and Western Chester County will come alive with revolutionary spirit as the region celebrates its part in the nationwide Lafayette 200 Bicentennial Commemoration.
From Jul. 27-29, a series of engaging and family-friendly events will mark the 200th anniversary of the Marquis de Lafayette’s Farewell Tour of America.
Organized by the Lancaster Lafayette200 Bicentennial Committee and led by Coordinator Kathleen Hood, the ten-event commemoration will take place over a three-day period. Here are just a few event highlights: a Candlelight Dinner and Period Ball, Lafayette Day at Historic Rock Ford, and a stirring Musical Celebration at the Ware Center.
“We’ve been planning this for four years,” said Hood, who was appointed Lancaster County and Western Chester County’s Coordinator by the American Friends of Lafayette in 2021. “It’s been a phenomenal experience, and our committee is excited to finally bring this celebration to life.”
information, photos, and videos of the Lafayette200 Bicentennial.
Lafayette, a French hero of the American Revolution and lifelong advocate for liberty, visited Lancaster in 1825 as part of his Farewell Tour — an extensive journey through 24 states that shaped the young nation’s memory and identity. Lancaster is now one of many cities participating in the national Lafayette200 commemoration, inspired by his enduring legacy.
A Historic Dinner and Dance: Jul. 27
The festivities begin early on Sunday, Jul. 27, and conclude that day with a Bicentennial Candlelight Dinner and Period Ball — a re-creation of the elegant Masonic ball that honored Lafayette during his 1825 visit. While the original took place at the former Masonic Lodge, this updated version will be held at the Trust46 Building in Lancaster.
“We wanted to do justice to the original event,” Hood said. “We’ve got an incredible menu catered by White House Chef John Moeller, live music, and English country dancing led by Janice Simpson and the Hawthorne Musicians.”
The evening will begin at 5:00 PM with a cocktail hour, followed by dinner at 5:30 PM and the period ball from 7-9:00 PM. Guests are encouraged to attend in period attire, though it is not required. Tickets and more details are available on the Lafayette200 PA website.
Lafayette Day at Historic Rock Ford: Jul. 28
On Monday, Jul. 28, there are plans for a Lafayette Day at Historic Rock Ford, where a full day of activities will honor Lafayette’s visit to the home of Edward Hand’s daughter, one of his stops during the original tour.
Running from 10:00 AM-4:00 PM, Lafayette Day is free and open to the public. Attendees can explore a curated Lafayette exhibit, tour the historic Hand Mansion, experience a Revolutionary War encampment, meet re-enactors, enjoy live music and dancing, visit food vendors and sutlers, and more.
“This day was intentionally created to reflect Lafayette’s actual movements and relationships in Lancaster,” said Hood. “It’s both fun and educational and perfect for all ages.”
Musical Extravaganza at the Ware Center: Jul. 28 Evening
On the evening of Monday, Jul. 28, a grand spectacle will unfold at the Ware Center, where over 100 performers will take the stage in a musical celebration of Lafayette’s life and legacy.
Titled A Summer Evening with Lafayette, the performance will weave music and narrative to introduce the audience to key figures in Lafayette’s life, including George Washington, his wife Adrienne, abolitionist James Armistead Lafayette, and even Marie Antoinette.
“The show brings history to life through song and story,” Hood said. “It’s our way of sharing with the audience Lafayette’s values, relationships, and importance through a creative and moving experience.”
The event features performances by the Allegro Orchestra Lancaster, Voices of Judah Gospel Choir, Music for Everyone Community Chorus, the Central York Middle School Fife and Drum Corps, and others. Lancaster native James Wolpert will also make a special appearance. The evening concludes with a specially commissioned orchestral piece composed just for the occasion.
Making History Come Alive
What sets Lancaster’s Lafayette 200 events apart is their emphasis on inclusion, accessibility, and education. Whether you’re a history buff, a music lover, or simply looking for a meaningful summer event, there’s something for everyone.
“We want people to see Lafayette not just as a historical figure, but as a symbol of inspiration,” said Hood. “He reminds us all that one person can make a difference.”
Visitors are expected from across the country, and organizers hope locals will take pride in their town’s place in history. The events reflect both reverence for the past and hope for the future, celebrating the ideals Lafayette fought for — liberty, unity, and civic spirit.
For a full list of events and ticketing information, visit Lafayette200 PA. To discover more ways to explore Lancaster County, visit Discover Lancaster.
