Every September in Lancaster County, Hershey Farm Restaurant & Inn holds the Whoopie Pie Festival.
For those who do not know, whoopie pies have been a handed down Amish tradition. It is known that the women would use left over batter to make these sandwich-like confections and would place them in their husbands' lunch box. When the men were out in the field they would find the pies in their lunch boxes and yell "whoopie!" thus generating its name.
Over time the whoopie pie has grown to be an icon of Lancaster County and with the festival, it has brought whoopie pie lovers together whether it is locals or those from out-of-state. There are numerous reasons as to why this festival should be on everyone's festival bucket list.
1. It's a great way to spend time with family.
As the festival continues to grow each year, there are numerous activities for the family to do! Even if you don't spend all day at the festival Hershey Farm has some animals to pet, a walking trail, and boutiques to shop in.
2. You can support local crafters and artisians.
This past year (2017) the festival hosted local crafters and artisians selling their handmade products. You can buy some unique items crafted in Lancaster County all while buying your whoopie pies; it's a one stop shop!
3. You can order a VIP Pass.
Unlike a lot of festivals, Hershey Farm allows you to skip the line and have access to all flavors of whoopie pies. The pass this year included instant access, early admission, an insulated festival tote, and to create your own whoopie pie. Nearly everyone that ordered a VIP absolutely loved it.
4. It brings together the community.
Festivals always bring the community together, and the Whoopie Pie festival does just that. Not only does it bring the community together, but it connects the community with fellow tourists who travel to Lancaster specifically for the festival. It also is a great day to gather friends up and volunteer if you wish to contribute your time!
5. You can add it to your day trip.
Lot of people come to the Strasburg/Ronks area to see the Strasburg Rail Road or Sight & Sound Theatre. So whether you are a 20 minute drive or 2 hour drive, you can come to Lancaster County and make a day trip that includes the festival!
6. You can see the world's largest whoopie pie.
That's right! Have you ever seen a whoopie pie so large that it's bigger than you?! Well every year the world's largest whoopie pie grows bigger and bigger inch by inch. You have to see it for yourself in person.
7. For the Whoopie Pies of course!
This past year, there were over 100 flavors of whoopie pies! You could come up with almost any flavor imaginable, and they'll have it. The great part about the pies is that you can freeze them, too. So whether you are local or tourists, you can stock up on your favorite flavors of whoopie pies for the entire year.
