Events: Storytime

July Storytime | “Of Thee I Sing”

The book cover of "Of Thee I Sing: A Letter to My Daughters."Gather ’round for Storytime each Thursday this July! Each week, we’ll read aloud from a book centered on a historical theme or story, followed by a craft or activity inspired by that week’s book. For July 3, we’ll be reading Of Thee I Sing: A Letter To My Daughters by Barack Obama (Illustrated by Loren Long).

In this poignant letter to his daughters, Barack Obama has written a moving tribute to thirteen groundbreaking Americans and the ideals that have shaped our nation. From the artistry of Georgia O’Keeffe, to the courage of Jackie Robinson, to the patriotism of George Washington, Obama sees the traits of these heroes within his own children, and within all of America’s children. Breathtaking, evocative illustrations by award-winning artist Loren Long at once capture the personalities and achievements of these great Americans and the innocence and promise of childhood. (Penguin Random House)

Storytime is free, and registration is requested to ensure we have craft supplies for everyone. Storytime is designed for young readers, ages 2-6, but older and younger siblings or friends are welcome to attend. Register for all Storytime programs or individual programs online or over the phone by calling (717) 392-4633.

Storytime will take place outdoors unless it rains, in which case it will be moved indoors. We kindly ask that at least one (1) adult 18 years or older attend for every household.

Children's Program Family-Friendly In-Person Event Outdoor

July 3, 2025 LancasterHistory, 230 N. President Ave., Lancaster 10-11am FREE | Registration Requested

July Storytime | “Froggy Learns to Swim”

Image of the book cover of "Froggy Learns To Swim," with an illustration of a cartoon frog wearing swim trunks and scuba gear.Gather ’round for Storytime each Thursday this July! Each week, we’ll read aloud from a book centered on a historical theme or story, followed by a craft or activity inspired by that week’s book. For July 10, we’ll be reading Froggy Learns to Swim by Jonathan London (Illustrated by Frank Remkiewicz).

Frogs are supposed to be great swimmers. “Not me!” says Froggy, who’s afraid of the water. But with a little encouragement, some practice, and the help of a silly song or two, Froggy becomes an expert frog-kicker! (Penguin Random House)

Storytime is free, and registration is requested to ensure we have craft supplies for everyone. Storytime is designed for young readers, ages 2-6, but older and younger siblings or friends are welcome to attend. Register for all Storytime programs or individual programs online or over the phone by calling (717) 392-4633.

Storytime will take place outdoors unless it rains, in which case it will be moved indoors. We kindly ask that at least one (1) adult 18 years or older attend for every household.

Children's Program Family-Friendly In-Person Event Outdoor

July 10, 2025 LancasterHistory, 230 N. President Ave., Lancaster 10-11am FREE | Registration Requested

July Storytime | “Abe Lincoln: The Boy Who Loved Books”

The book cover of "Abe Lincoln" with an illustrated cover of a book sitting in a tall tree reading.Gather ’round for Storytime each Thursday this July! Each week, we’ll read aloud from a book centered on a historical theme or story, followed by a craft or activity inspired by that week’s book. For July 17, we’ll be reading Abe Lincoln: The Boy Who Loved Books by Kay Winters (Illustrated by Nancy Carpenter).

Learn about the early life of Abraham Lincoln in this picture book biography that Kirkus Reviews calls “a moving tribute to the power of books and words.” In a tiny log cabin a boy listened with delight to the storytelling of his ma and pa. He traced letters in sand, snow, and dust. He borrowed books and walked miles to bring them back. When he grew up, he became the sixteenth president of the United States. His name was Abraham Lincoln. (Simon & Schuster)

Storytime is free, and registration is requested to ensure we have craft supplies for everyone. Storytime is designed for young readers, ages 2-6, but older and younger siblings or friends are welcome to attend. Register for all Storytime programs or individual programs online or over the phone by calling (717) 392-4633.

Storytime will take place outdoors unless it rains, in which case it will be moved indoors. We kindly ask that at least one (1) adult 18 years or older attend for every household.

Children's Program Family-Friendly In-Person Event Outdoor

July 17, 2025 LancasterHistory, 230 N. President Ave., Lancaster 10-11am FREE | Registration Requested

July Storytime | “Sofia Valdez, Future Prez”

Book cover for "Sofia Valdez, Future Prez."

Gather ’round for Storytime each Thursday this July! Each week, we’ll read aloud from a book centered on a historical theme or story, followed by a craft or activity inspired by that week’s book. For July 24, we’ll be reading Sofia Valdez, Future Prez by Andrea Beaty (Illustrated by David Roberts).

Children who join Sofia in her story will learn that they can help their community—or even one day become president of the United States! Every morning, Abuelo walks Sofia to school . . . until one day when Abuelo hurts his ankle at a local landfill, and he can no longer do so. Sofia (aka Sofi) misses her Abuelo and wonders what she can do about the dangerous Mount Trashmore. Then she gets an idea: The town can turn the slimy mess into a park! She brainstorms and plans and finally works up the courage to go to City Hall—only to be told by a clerk that she can’t build a park because she’s just a kid! Sofia is down but not out, and she sets out to prove what one kid can do. (Abrams Books)

Storytime is free, and registration is requested to ensure we have craft supplies for everyone. Storytime is designed for young readers, ages 2-6, but older and younger siblings or friends are welcome to attend. Register for all Storytime programs or individual programs online or over the phone by calling (717) 392-4633.

Storytime will take place outdoors unless it rains, in which case it will be moved indoors. We kindly ask that at least one (1) adult 18 years or older attend for every household.

Children's Program Family-Friendly In-Person Event Outdoor

July 24, 2025 LancasterHistory, 230 N. President Ave., Lancaster 10-11am FREE | Registration Requested

July Storytime | “Acorn Was A Little Wild”

Book cover of "Acorn Was A Little Wild" featuring an illustration of an anthropomorphic acorn falling through the leaves.Gather ’round for Storytime each Thursday this July! Each week, we’ll read aloud from a book centered on a historical theme or story, followed by a craft or activity inspired by that week’s book. For July 31, we’ll be reading Acorn Was A Little Wild by Jen Arena (Illustrated by Jessica Gibson).

When Acorn jumps off the oak tree, he finds a wide world full of exciting new experiences! A charming picture book about a young acorn’s grand adventure and the incredible transformation that follows. (Scholastic Books)

Storytime is free, and registration is requested to ensure we have craft supplies for everyone. Storytime is designed for young readers, ages 2-6, but older and younger siblings or friends are welcome to attend. Register for all Storytime programs or individual programs online or over the phone by calling (717) 392-4633.

Storytime will take place outdoors unless it rains, in which case it will be moved indoors. We kindly ask that at least one (1) adult 18 years or older attend for every household.

Children's Program Family-Friendly In-Person Event Outdoor

July 31, 2025 LancasterHistory, 230 N. President Ave., Lancaster 10-11am FREE | Registration Requested

Music on the Lawn, feat. The Jordan Rast Trio

A black and white photo of three young men with various string guitar instruments.
The Jordan Rast Trio

Music on the Lawn returns this summer with more fantastic local bands in James Buchanan’s backyard! This family- (and dog-) friendly event welcomes attendees to relax and enjoy an evening outdoors with live music. August’s concert features The Jordan Rast Trio playing bluegrass, country, and Americana music.

Tickets are free for LancasterHistory Members, $10/Adult (18+) Non-Members, and free for Children 17 & Under. Tickets may be purchased online or by calling (717) 392-4633. Tickets are also available at-the-door with cash or card (cash preferred).

Attendees are encouraged to bring their own blankets, foldable chairs, and picnics. Well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome. If you require any special accommodations to attend, please notify Annie Weeks at (717) 392-4633, ext. 134 or annie.weeks@lancasterhistory.org in advance. Restrooms available onsite. In the event of inclement weather, the call will be made at noon on August 23 and ticketholders will be notified. The rain date for this event is Sunday, August 24 from 1-3pm.

 

Many Thanks to Our 2025 Music on the Lawn Season Sponsors!

A graphic with the sponsor logos of Mosaic by Willow Valley Communities, Ville Painters, EHD, and Yurchak Printing.

Family-Friendly In-Person Event Outdoor

August 23, 2025 LancasterHistory, 230 N. President Ave., Lancaster, PA 5-7pm FREE/LancasterHistory Members | $10/Non-Member Adults (18+) | FREE/Children 17 & Under