Bucks County Weekend Guide: Festivals, Sand Sculptures, and a New Way to Ride the Rails

A sand sculptor puts the finishing touches on "An American Road Trip" at Peddler's Village, the newly crowned No. 1 shopping center in the country, and one of the many reasons Bucks County is worth exploring this weekend.

Got plans this weekend? If not, Bucks County has you covered.

From street festivals and pet parades to award-winning shopping, sand sculptures, scenic rail rides, and wineries, there is no shortage of ways to spend the next couple of days.

Here are eight of the best.

Start in Newtown, where Welcome Day takes over Sycamore Street with local businesses, food vendors, community groups, live entertainment, and activities for all ages.

It is one of the borough’s most popular annual festivals, and thousands of visitors are expected to pack the street.

Bring the dog along to Arts & Barks Pet & Family Fest in Warminster.

Rescue organizations, pet demonstrations, vendors, and family-friendly activities make this a fun stop for animal lovers of every age, four legs included.

Speaking of can’t miss spots, Peddler’s Village just earned the ultimate bragging rights.

USA Today named the Lahaska shopping destination the No. 1 shopping center in the country, beating out a Texas rival in the publication’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards.

The honor caps off more than 60 years for the 42-acre property, home to over 60 locally owned shops, restaurants, and the Golden Plough Inn.

The timing could not be better. Peddler’s Village is also hosting its annual Sights in Sand exhibit, where professional artists carve massive sculptures from sand.

This year’s theme, “An American Road Trip,” celebrates the nation’s 250th birthday with towering creations inspired by five regions of the country, from the Statue of Liberty to the Golden Gate Bridge.

The exhibit runs through August, making it one of the best free photo opportunities in the county and an easy pairing with a day of shopping at America’s top mall.

For a classic Bucks County outing, the New Hope Railroad still delivers scenic train rides through the countryside, complete with on-board narration about the area’s history.

This summer, though, the railroad is adding a new twist.

Pedal-powered rail bikes now travel the heritage tracks between the Lahaska and Buckingham stations, a 6-mile, roughly 90-minute round trip at a relaxed 5 mph through woods, farmland, and rolling hills, with views that train cars simply cannot match.

A second, more challenging 8-mile route between New Hope and Lahaska launches in July, crossing Aquetong Creek and the storied Pauline’s Trestle.

While you are in the area, spend a few hours wandering New Hope itself.

The Delaware River town remains one of the region’s most popular destinations, thanks to its walkable downtown, independent shops, galleries, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

Doylestown makes for an equally rewarding day trip. Visit the Mercer Museum, Fonthill Castle, and the Michener Art Museum, then explore a downtown packed with shops, restaurants, and historic charm.

Looking for something more laid back? Head to New Hope Winery, where The Pour House hosts live music every Friday night alongside food and drinks.

Several other Bucks County wineries are also pouring tastings and opening their patios this weekend, perfect for soaking up the summer sun with a glass of local wine.

For those who would rather be on the water, Lake Nockamixon remains one of the county’s top outdoor destinations.

Boating, kayaking, fishing, paddleboarding, hiking, and picnicking are all on the menu for a full day outside.

Whatever you are in the mood for this weekend, whether it is a festival, a family outing, a day trip, or a relaxing afternoon with friends, Bucks County delivers.

Did we miss something? Let us know what you are doing this weekend.

_____



Share This Story:

"*" indicates required fields

This field is hidden when viewing the form
BT Yes
This field is hidden when viewing the form
BT Sub Source


Trending Stories