Events: Children's Program

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

Thyme to Grow: A Guide to Herb Gardening

A young woman with light skin and short brown hair. She wears glasses and a purple dress with a green cardigan in front of a greenhouse.
Madison Walter

Join the Friends of the Tanger Arboretum as we welcome August Nature Series presenter Madison Walter for “Thyme to Grow: A Guide to Herb Gardening.” Discover the wonderful world of herbs in this hands-on program. Explore various herb types, learn essential care techniques, and delve into the best practices for growing, harvesting, and preserving your herbs. Whether you are a beginner or looking to grow your green thumb, you’ll leave with practical skills and a new appreciation for our flavorful friends!

Madison Walter is the urban agriculture coordinator for the New Castle Conservation District, chair of the Delaware Urban Farm and Food Coalition, and a content developer and guest instructor for Longwood Gardens’ Continuing Education program. Leveraging her background in horticulture and Master’s Degree in Environmental Education, Madison has presented to local, national, and international audiences to build an understanding of how connections developed through farming and gardening build stronger communities. Her passion for plants and an equitable local food system are what drive her to encourage others to believe in a brighter, greener future.

HOW TO REGISTER
The event, “Thyme to Grow” will take place on Saturday, August 23 at 10am at LancasterHistory. The event is open to the public. Tickets are $10/Adults and $5/Children (17 & Under). Friends of the Tanger Arboretum members receive complimentary admission, but should still register for the program. Tickets may be purchased online or by calling (717) 392-4633. Advance tickets recommended as walk-in tickets are not guaranteed.

PURCHASE TICKETS ONLINE

Membership gets you more! Membership to the Friends of the Tanger Arboretum not only supports the care and conservation of this local natural resource, but also gets you great benefits such as complimentary admission to Nature Series programs! Learn more about membership and sign up today here.

The Friends of the Tanger Arboretum is a member of the American Horticultural Society Reciprocal Admission Program. AHS Reciprocal Admission Program members may register for tickets in advance and must show a valid membership card upon checking in. AHS Members should contact Emily Miller, emily.miller@lancasterhistory.org, with any questions or to register for tickets in advance.


This event is hosted by the Friends of the Tanger Arboretum. The Friends of the Tanger Arboretum, a subsidiary organization of LancasterHistory, helps foster public interest in, and support for, the maintenance and development of the Tanger Arboretum as a community asset. To learn more about the Arboretum or to become a member, please visit the Arboretum’s webpage.

 


The 2025 Friends of the Tanger Arboretum Nature Series is sponsored by Ever Green Tree & Lawn Care! Thank you for your support!

Children's Program Family-Friendly In-Person Event Nature Series Program

August 23, 2025 LancasterHistory, 230 N. President Ave, Lancaster 10-11:30am $10/Adults | $5/Children (17 & Under) | FREE for Friends of the Tanger Arboretum Members

Past, Present, Pumpkins!

A table with a bright yellow table cloth, covered in crafting supplies and pumpkins in various stages of being decorated with eyes, stickers, and puff balls.
Pumpkins in the midst of decoration!

Learn about the autumnal icon, the pumpkin, at this fun, family-friendly event on Saturday, October 11 at 10am! Discover the historical origins of the pumpkin and why we decorate our front porches each year with a vegetable we probably won’t eat. Plus, embark on an exciting pumpkin hunt across the grounds before creating your very own decorated gourd masterpiece to take home!

Perfect for families and children 12 and under. Tickets are $5/Child and free for Adults. (Ticket price goes towards the purchase of supplies.) Advance registration is required to guarantee supplies for everyone. LancasterHistory requests the presence of one (1) adult per household. Tickets may be purchased online or by calling (717) 392-4633.

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

October 11, 2025 LancasterHistory, 230 N. President Ave., Lancaster, PA 10-11am $5/Child for Supplies

Candy Canes & Cocoa on Campus

A small, young girl in a puffy pink coat lifts a candy cane out of a small conifer tree.Help us on our hunt for candy canes across the Campus of History! Children will listen to a story read aloud, complete a holiday craft to take home, and enjoy a hot cup of cocoa.

Tickets are $5 per child, which goes towards the cost of crafting supplies. At least one adult (18+) must attend per household. Story, craft, and candy cane activity best suited for children 12 years and under, but all ages welcome!

Tickets open in November. Please check back later!

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

December 13, 2025 LancasterHistory, 230 N. President Avenue, Lancaster, PA 10-11am $5/Child for Supplies