Halloween Safety within the Borough

As the leaves turn crisp and the air becomes filled with the aroma of pumpkin spice, Halloween enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the spookiest night of the year. However, while ghouls and ghosts may be part of the fun, safety should always be a top priority, especially within the borough.

Safety Tips: 

• Well-lit Streets: Ensure that streetlights are functioning properly in your neighborhood. Adequate lighting can help prevent accidents and ensure children and adults alike can see and be seen.

• Costume Safety: While creativity knows no bounds when it comes to costumes, make sure they are comfortable and easy to move in. Avoid costumes that drag on the ground or obstruct vision.

• Trick-or-Treat Groups: Encourage children to trick-or-treat in groups or with a trusted adult. Stick to well-known neighborhoods and only visit houses with porch lights on.

• Reflective Gear: Add reflective tape to costumes and carry flashlights or glow sticks to enhance visibility. This is especially crucial when dusk falls early in the evening.

• Candy Inspection: Remind children not to eat any candy until it's been inspected at home. Look for any signs of tampering or unwrapped treats.

• Pet Safety: Keep pets indoors on Halloween night to prevent them from getting frightened or stressed by the unusual sights and sounds.

• Respect Property: Encourage respect for others' property. Remind children not to trample lawns, and avoid decorations or displays that may be easily damaged.

By prioritizing these safety tips, we can all ensure a fun and worry-free Halloween celebration within the Ephrata Borough. Let's make sure the only scares are the ones intended for the occasion! Don’t Miss Trick or Treat, Tuesday, October 31st from 6-8pm.

Visiting the Ephrata Fair in PA is an exciting and cherished tradition for people of all ages. The sights, sounds, and smells of the fairground create an atmosphere of fun and adventure. However, it's essential to prioritize safety while enjoying the festivities. Here's a guide on how to stay safe at the fair.

• Plan Ahead: Before heading to the fair, check the weather forecast and dress appropriately. Wear comfortable shoes for walking and consider bringing sunscreen and a hat for protection from the sun.

• Stay Hydrated: Fair days can be long and hot. Carry a refillable water bottle and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. 

• Watch Your Step: Fairgrounds can be uneven, and with so many distractions, it's easy to trip and fall. Pay attention to where you're walking, especially when navigating through crowds or near rides.

• Follow Ride Safety Rules: If you plan to go on rides, make sure to follow all safety rules and guidelines provided by the ride operators. Check that restraints are secure, and always obey height and age restrictions.

• Keep an Eye on Children: If you're with young children, keep them within sight at all times. Consider taking a photo of your child before entering the fair in case you need to provide a description to fair staff in case of separation.

• Know Emergency Exits: Familiarize yourself with the fairground layout and the locations of emergency exits and first-aid stations. Have a meeting point in case you get separated from your group.

• Watch Out for Bees: Fair food and the heat can draw out the bees. Avoid swatting at them and dispose of unwanted food and trash in the proper areas.

• Food Safety: Enjoy fair food, but be cautious of food vendors' cleanliness. Opt for well-cooked and freshly prepared items, and wash your hands before eating.

• Avoid Overindulgence: The fair offers a tempting array of treats, but overindulgence can lead to stomach discomfort or worse. Enjoy in moderation.

• Use Sun Protection: Protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays with sunscreen, and seek shade when needed.

• Trust Your Instincts: If something doesn't feel right or looks unsafe, it's better to avoid it. Your instincts are a valuable safety tool.

While we hope you have an amazing experience attending the Ephrata Fair, The Ephrata Borough PA, wants to ensure the safety and wellbeing of everyone in attendance from guests and vendors, to volunteers and workers. By planning ahead, following safety guidelines, and staying aware of your surroundings, you can ensure that your fair visit is filled with fun, laughter, and cherished memories.

In the heart of Lancaster County, PA lies the picturesque town of Ephrata, a charming town known for its Amish heritage and idyllic landscapes, that happens to be the home of a long-standing tradition, the Ephrata Fair. This annual event has been a cornerstone of the community for over a century, bringing people together from near and far to celebrate agriculture, craftsmanship, and the spirit of togetherness.  Let’s take a look at the history of the Ephrata Fair, as it has evolved over the years from a small town fair to becoming the largest street fair on the East Coast. 

Origins of The Ephrata Fair 

The Ephrata Fair can trace its origins back to the late 19th century when a group of local farmers and businesspeople sought to create an event that would showcase the region’s agricultural importance and foster a sense of community.  In 1919, these visionaries organized the first official Ephrata Fair, marking the beginning of a tradition that would endure for generations to come. 

Early Years: Agriculture Emphasis

The fair wasn’t always an event focused on rides, games, and fun food, and was primarily focused on agriculture.  Farmers from Ephrata and the surrounding areas came to exhibit their livestock, crops, and handiwork.  The fair was a time for them to compete, exchange ideas, and learn from each other.  The fair served as an opportunity for agricultural education by allowing farmers to adopt new practices and technologies to improve their efforts.  It was then later on, that as the fair gained popularity, that entertainment and amusement elements, such as rides, games and music were added to attract a wider audience. 

The Ephrata Fair and World World II

Even through the war the Ephrata Fair pressed on, being utilized to support the war efforts by hosting events like bond drives and scrap metal collections.  Despite these disruptions, the spirit of the fair remained alive, and it bounced back with renewed vigor after the war ended. 

The Modern Ephrata Fair 

In the post-war era, the Ephrata Fair continued to evolve, expanding to include attractions, food vendors, and a variety of competitions from baking and quilting, to tractor pulls and demolition derbies.  As the town of Ephrata grew it became a diverse and all inclusive event to look forward to.  

Today, the Ephrata Fair has evolved into a sprawling, multi-day event that draws visitors from all over PA and beyond.  While it remains deeply rooted in its agricultural heritage, it has embraced the 21st century with a wide range of modern entertainment, food festivals, and more. 

Community Impact

The Ephrata Fair is more than just a fun-filled event; it's the cornerstone of the community. It brings together people of all ages and backgrounds, fosters a sense of unity and pride, and embraces and celebrates Ephrata’s rich agricultural heritage. The history of the Ephrata Fair is a testament to the enduring spirit of rural communities and their abilities to adapt to changing times, while preserving time-honored traditions.  The Ephrata Fair is an important event in the Ephrata community that has stood the test of time and continues to be a pillar in the Ephrata area, and a cherished Lancaster County tradition.