More than 500 vendors were set to line the streets and park of Lititz for the August 2016 Lititz Rotary Craft Show, one of the largest and best-known craft shows in the region. Before heading out, a little preparation could go a long way. Here were five things to know to have an enjoyable and successful day.
1. Choose where to eat with care
The craft show draws enormous crowds, and many visitors plan to eat at a local restaurant before or after shopping. In 2016, one Lititz restaurant had made national headlines for failing to follow food safety rules, and that prompted a reminder to check public inspection reports before choosing where to dine.
Pennsylvania’s Department of Agriculture publishes restaurant inspection results online, making it easy to look up any establishment. The advice was especially relevant for older visitors and those with compromised immune systems, who are more susceptible to foodborne illness.
2. No shuttle from Bonfield Elementary
Visitors used to riding a shuttle from Bonfield Elementary School needed a new plan, because that shuttle was not running. The advice was to come early to find parking, and to remember that Broad and Main streets downtown are closed for the event.
Paid parking was available next to the VFW just south of the park and in the Lititz Moravian Church lot. Other options included the Linden Hall and Warwick High School lots. Arriving early increases the chances of a spot close to the action.
3. Bring a cart and a helper
Experienced craft show visitors know that a cart is essential. Between pottery, furniture, wreaths and other heavy finds, purchases add up quickly. Bringing a cart and someone to help carry items makes the day much easier.
Many vendors offer to help carry larger items, and some will hold a purchase so that buyers can return with their vehicle closer to the booth for pickup. It never hurts to ask.
4. Stay hydrated
The forecast called for a hot and humid day, and walking the length of the show in that weather can be draining. Visitors were urged to pack plenty of bottled water in their carts.
That advice carried extra weight in 2016. Lead had been found in Lititz Borough drinking water, and the state said the borough had violated the rules meant to keep people safe from it. Bottled water offered peace of mind, especially for pregnant women and families with young children. Cold drinks were also available from many vendors throughout the show.
5. Plan your route
With hundreds of vendors spread across downtown and Lititz Springs Park, a plan helps. One suggested route was to start by walking west on East Main Street, then head south on Broad Street, cross over and come back up the other side.
From there, visitors could enter Lititz Springs Park and see the vendors on one side on the way in and the other side on the way out. Then a left turn north onto Broad Street led to a stop for a free sample of chocolate, before crossing and continuing south on Broad and turning left onto East Main to see the final stretch. The route works just as well in reverse.
A beloved tradition
The Lititz Rotary Craft Show has long been one of the highlights of the summer, drawing visitors from across the East Coast. Its mix of quality handmade goods, a charming small-town setting and the beauty of Lititz Springs Park make it a destination for serious shoppers and casual browsers alike.
Proceeds support the Rotary Club’s charitable work in the community, so a day at the show helps local causes as well as local artisans.
With a cart, plenty of water, a parking plan and a walking route, visitors were set for a day of discovery among the booths.