YoCo Twist Blog
The Makers Spirit Event is Explore York’s annual celebration of the creators behind the area’s most sought-after and beloved products and services. For more than 20 years, this event has highlighted the people and businesses who have brought one-of-a-kind experiences for all to enjoy.
Every June, through multiple days of festivities, you are invited to explore the craftsmanship and creativity that define York County. From farm-fresh flavors to artisan-crafted treasures, discover the diverse talents and unique offerings that make York County a true haven for makers and enthusiasts alike.
This year’s event takes place June 13-15, 2025.
Participating Locations:
Please note: Not all locations are participating every day. Most events are free but some require a fee and/or pre-registration. Please visit the Makers Spirit Event page for complete details, including dates and times.
Appell Center for the Performing Arts
Enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour of the Appell Center, including its historic theatres -- the Capitol Theatre built in 1906 and the Strand Theatre which will be celebrating its Centennial this summer. The tour will be led by President & CEO Todd Fogdall.
Candi J. Duda Stained Glass and Garden Art
Take a hands-on stained glass class and create a Stained Glass Mountain, where you will gain experience choosing and cutting glass, grinding and foiling, soldering, and cleaning. Each class will be approximately two hours long.
During the Lavender Thyme Faire, you’ll enjoy craft/plant vendors, demonstrators, farm animals, and informative talks on honeybees, herbs, weed walks, and more. Wagon rides and a variety of lavender food and drinks will also be available.
Cultural Alliance of York County
This unforgettable STEAM Sneakerheadz™ Community Workshop is hosted by Ky the Chemist and sponsored by the Cultural Alliance. This no-cost, experiential learning workshop is designed for students in grades five through twelve, blending science, creativity, and sneaker culture in one exciting afternoon! Participants will get hands-on as they create and customize their own sneaker cleaners and deodorizers, all while learning the chemistry behind the ingredients, reactions, and everyday materials we often take for granted. All materials will be provided.
Dills Tavern and Eichelberger Distillery
Tour these Northern York County Historical and Preservation Society properties for a step back in time: a living history museum featuring historic cooking, farmers market, and an 18th century reproduction distillery.
Heartwood Nursery and Environmental Preserve
The 16th Annual Serviceberry Festival is a family-friendly event dedicated to the beautiful native Serviceberry tree! It's a great way to learn about this little-known tree, explore the groves, and taste this delicious native fruit.
Enjoy coffee samples, coffee roasting demonstrations, and learning about their bean-to-cup process.
A day pass will give you a look at this STEAM maker space for kids and their grownups. Create, make, tinker, explore, and play with special activities and interactive experiences.
The Barbecue & Brews Stroll is an afternoon filled with craft beer, mouthwatering barbecue, and downtown exploration through historic Hanover.
Enjoy a wine making demonstration!
Book an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at a magnificent steam locomotive, The MACK #85! A guest engineer, the knowledgeable and enthusiastic Barney Grambling, will be on site for a private tour of his engine. Barney is ready to share the secrets of this iron horse, from the fiery heart of the engine to the iconic whistle that announces its arrival.
River Rock Provisions, Home of Half Nuts Popcorn
Enjoy a behind-the-scenes experience at Half Nuts Popcorn, where you'll witness the art of making their famous Caramel Corn. See skilled poppers in action as they craft each batch to perfection and even lend a hand in the popping process.
People who signed up for this tour will be treated to a catwalk tour of the Hanover plant. Please note that this tour is now full.
Susquehanna National Heritage Area -- River Boat Tours
Come aboard the Chief Uncas, a historic 112-year-old electric power motor yacht, for an unforgettable boat tour experience on the Susquehanna! Discover the history of the Chief Uncas and the Susquehanna River's lasting legacy and take in the spectacular river views as SNHA guides you on a journey through the river’s cultural and natural heritage.
Be one of the first to get a behind-the-scenes, sneak peek of this new 50,000-square-foot multi-tenant entertainment complex coming to West York. See the building in its raw state in the midst of construction.
Sign up for a bourbon tasting where you will taste four small batch bourbons with tasting notes. Or, head to Sunday School and learn about wines and wine regions. The Handsome Cab has white, rose, and red wines from all over the world including France, Italy, Spain, Argentina, and California just to name a few.
Enjoy a bubble glazing workshop! Bubble glazing in pottery is a decorative technique where soap is added to glaze to create bubbles that leave unique, lace-like patterns on the ceramic surface after firing.
Experience a guided tour of the Explore York Augmented Reality Trail, with locations including Mural Park, The Yorktowne Hotel, Goodridge Freedom House, Continental Square, and Colonial Complex.
York Architecture Illustrated Walking Tours
Discounted tours available during the Makers Spirit Event. Explore the hidden layers of Royal Square District’s built history and evolving architecture.
York County Solid Waste Authority
Get a behind-the-scenes tour of this waste-to-energy facility where all of York county's household waste is responsibly combusted and used as fuel to generate electricity.
Tour the farm with demonstrations and opportunities to participate in some farm or market prep work! Help with harvesting, weeding, trimming, cleaning, or weighing fruits and vegetables.
Enjoy a glass fusing demonstration and workshop.
The York Merchant (Quite The Stir)
Stop by for 15-minute demos showcasing Gong Fu Cha and branded teas, from delicate greens to robust blacks. This engaging session will celebrate tea’s rich flavors and traditions.
Go beyond the ballpark with an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of WellSpan Park, home of the Atlantic League Champions, the York Revolution! Explore areas fans rarely see and take a photo with the Atlantic League Championship Trophy.
Reminder: Not all locations are participating every day. Most events are free but some require a fee and/or pre-registration. Please visit the Makers Spirit Event page for complete details, including dates and times and a printable schedule.
Throughout the weekend, be sure to tag us @ExploreYorkPA with #MakersSpirit2025 for a chance to win prizes as you show off your unique experiences. Have fun!
