Logo for Osceola Mill House featuring a house and wheat graphic.

A Little Dutch Country Retail Therapy

Who among us is not in need of a little shopping trip?  For sure, this year we may want to avoid the crowds that usually are found at the mega-malls during the holidays. But doesn’t the thought of strolling along outside at a market or a shopping village just warm your heart a little?  Let me make a few suggestions.

The Village of Intercourse (it’s ok to giggle – we all do) is only about 2 miles from our front door.  It’s fun to walk along Old Philadelphia Pike and wander in and out of the shops during any season of the year.  But the holidays are always special here.  Many of the merchants decorate with white lights and greenery and offer their suggestions for the perfect gift or a treat for yourself.  And this year, the Village will celebrate its 23rd annual Holiday Celebration on December 4th and 5th with merchant demonstrations, live entertainment and other activities all throughout the Village. 

If you find yourself here on a Tuesday, plan a short trip up to Manheim to visit Roots Country Market and Auction.  Since 1925 Roots (pronounced “RUTS” here in Dutchy Land) has offered everything from meats to hand-crafted gifts and is truly a part of Lancaster County heritage.  You are sure to find a treasure at one of the over 200 indoor and outdoor stands.

So if you can’t find it at Roots, you certainly will at The Green Dragon Market & Auction in Ephrata.  Open every Friday on over 30 acres, with vendors both in their 7 market buildings or outdoors, this is a true farmers’ market with other crafters and artisans thrown in to boot.

Come visit us and sooth your soul a bit with a comfortable stay, a good breakfast, wonderful shopping, and maybe a beverage by the fire at night.