Annual Events in York County, PA

York County is host to lots of awesome annual events. Get planning today with these unique and fun reasons to visit.

The World’s Greatest Train Meet: 

Twice a year, thousands of visitors from across the country descend on the York Expo Center for this unique event. The public is invited to experience this showcase of model trains that’s become one of the most anticipated events of the year for train enthusiasts. Held in April and October. 

Give Local York Big Give Day:

Held annually on the first Friday in May, it's 24 hours of online giving to York County non-profit organizations. A wide variety of special events are held county-wide that day to promote the organizations and their missions. For a list of participating Explore York members, click here. 

Street Rod Nationals East:

Thousands of street rods, muscle cars, and specialty vehicles roar into York every year on the first weekend in June for the National Street Rod Association's Annual Street Rod Nationals East, turning the county into a paradise for automobile enthusiasts. Please note: In 2024, the annual parade will take place on Friday, May 31.

Penn-Mar Irish Festival:

Held annually on the third Saturday in June in southern York County, featuring traditional and contemporary Irish music (regional, national, and international performers). The festival also includes Irish dancers, Irish food, free children’s activities, cultural talks, and a wide variety of vendors offering Irish goods including gifts, clothing, jewelry, music, books, pottery, photography, stained glass, and more. 2024 Headliner: Eileen Ivers.

Susquehanna Folk Festival:

The Susquehanna Folk Festival is jam-packed with renowned folk performers, regional and local musicians, family-friendly activities, dancing, workshops, jamming, an artisan marketplace, and tasty food.  

Pennsylvania Cigar Box Guitar Festival:

The world's largest cigar box guitar/homemade instrument festival, featuring 14 acts on two stages, vendors, demonstrations, and more, and it's all 100% free! Held in August on the Saturday prior to Labor Day Weekend. 

Sunflower Festival:

Hosted by Maple Lawn Farms over several weekends, the Sunflower Festival features more than eight acres planted with many varieties of these happy flowers. Take a wagon ride through the fields, snap photos, and be sure to take your flower home.