August Picks 2018

Experience authentic Pennsylvania German folklife from the 18th and 19th centuries. This year’s festival theme is Gemacht von Hand (made by hand). You can visit with friendly farm animals, take wagon rides on a horse-drawn wagon and enjoy traditional tasty refreshments such as fastnachts, shoofly pie, elderberry pie, homemade root beer and raspberry schrub.  Henry Antes Plantation, 318 Colonial Rd., Perkiomenville. Fri., noon to 8 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. $3–$12. 215-234-8953; Goschenhoppen.org.

The Brandywine Valley’s Pop-Up BYO Summer Gala, held at a secret location, benefits Neighbors for Crebilly, LLC. Guests wear their trendiest white outfits, provide their own picnic basket dinner, wine, centerpiece, candles and ambiance. The location will be revealed the morning of August 16. 5:30 to 10 p.m. $35–$40. Facebook.com/BrandywineInWhite.

The Land Conservancy for Southern Chester County invites you to bring out your four-legged “fur babies” for a fun evening in a beautiful, natural setting. The event features a pet costume contest, guided hikes in the preserve, doggie pools, an “ask the vet” table, search and rescue demonstrations, games and adoptable animals.  Stateline Woods Preserve, 814 Merrybell La., Kennett Square. 6 to 8 p.m. Free. 610-347-0347; TLCforSCC.org.

Come out to one of America’s top 50 art festivals, held at beautiful Long’s Park in Lancaster County. Stroll around the park’s lake while enjoying more than 200 juried artisans plus food, craft beers and wines. Benefits the park’s Amphitheater Foundation. 1441 Harrisburg Pk., Lancaster. Fri. &  Sat., 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. $12. The festival is held rain or shine. 717-291-4835; LongsPark.org.

Treat yourself to a short road trip to Bethlehem, site of the nation’s largest non-gated music festival, coming alive with the sound of all genres of music. Tickets are required for national headliners such as Kesha, Dierks Bentley, Daughtry, Jim Gaffigan, Trombone Shorty’s Voodoo Threauxdown Tour … the list goes on. Check the website for free concerts. For a complete lineup and to purchase tickets, visit Musikfest.org.