Lancaster Central Market: When to Go and What to Know

Lancaster Central Market is a long-running public market housed in a distinctive downtown Market House. The market was established in 1730 and describes itself as the oldest continuously operated public market in America. The current Market House was dedicated and revealed in November 1889.

Inside, more than 65 local vendors sell food and other goods. The market brings together everyday shopping and ready-to-eat options in one central setting, so you can browse several kinds of stalls during a single visit.

Hours can change, so check the official site before you go.

Opening hours

• Tuesday, Friday and Saturday: 6 AM–3 PM
• Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday: closed

Last checked November 2026. Hours can change on holidays and for special events.

The annual calendar also includes two seasonal gatherings. The Strawberry Festival takes place on the second Saturday in June, from 8 a.m. to noon, with live music, face painting, strawberry-themed food available for purchase at stands, and free activities.

The Harvest Breakfast is held on the first Saturday in October, also from 8 a.m. to noon; its activities include live music, face painting, pumpkin painting, food for purchase at stands, and free activities. Both are described as rain-or-shine events.

The market’s vendor directory groups offerings into baked goods; meat, poultry, and seafood; produce; ready-to-eat food; flowers; home and wellness; and specialty grocery. That range makes it possible to combine a produce shop with a meal or a browse through non-food stalls.

Named vendors include Amaranth Bakery, Lancaster Pie and Coffee, Miesse Candies, Inna’s Pierogi Shop, and Lancaster County Coffee Roasters. You can use the directory’s categories to narrow down what to look for before you arrive, then browse the Market House.

The market is at 23 North Market Street in downtown Lancaster. If you are driving, the Hager Parking Lot at 40 North Market Street is identified as the closest parking. Other listed options include Prince Street Garage, Central Garage, Penn Square Garage, and East King Street Garage.

For step-free entry, use automatic Door 1 or Door 2 at the southeast corner. The aisles are wide, all standholders are on the main floor, and an elevator in that corner connects to the mezzanine. Accessible restrooms are on the main floor nearby. Only certified service dogs may enter the Market House; emotional support animals are not permitted.

Many vendors accept credit cards, though not all. An ATM is in the southeast corner. Downtown Dollars are sold at the Information Stand and accepted in the market, and SNAP benefits can be used to purchase market vouchers at the Information Stand.

Pair a market visit with a stop at the Demuth Museum, another downtown Lancaster destination. Its exterior is pictured here; the Demuth Museum visiting guide covers details for planning that visit.