From a family-friendly Groundhog Day celebration downtown, to a peaceful morning with Elliott and Lilly, to trivia night and creative open mics, there’s no shortage of ways to get out, connect, and support local spaces and talent.
In this edition of Lancaster Local, we’re highlighting events that bring people together in simple, genuine ways - whether that’s laughing over trivia, listening to live music, learning about wildlife, or spending time with neighbors.
If you’ve been looking for something fun, easy, and local to add to your plans, you’ll find it here.
Let’s take a look at what’s happening around Lancaster this week.
There’s A Family-Friendly Groundhog Day Party at Tellus360
Image From Tellus360.org
Every winter in Pennsylvania, Groundhog Day gives us a small but meaningful reason to pause, look ahead, and wonder what the rest of the season might bring. Will spring come early? Will winter stick around a little longer? Either way, it’s a tradition that connects generations - and this year, Lancaster is celebrating it in a fun, family-friendly way.
On Groundhog Day, Tellus360 is hosting a special community party in the heart of downtown, inviting families, friends, and neighbors to gather for an evening of games, learning, and wintertime fun.
Running from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, this free (but ticketed) event offers a warm and welcoming way to mark the occasion - no early-morning wake-up call required.
What You’ll Find Inside
The Groundhog Day Party blends entertainment with education, giving visitors plenty to explore throughout the evening.
Here’s what guests can expect:
Wildlife Exhibits
Learn about Pennsylvania’s native animals and how they survive the winter months. It’s a hands-on, engaging experience that’s especially popular with kids - but just as interesting for adults.
Trivia and Games
Test your knowledge with themed trivia and enjoy friendly competition in a relaxed setting. Whether you’re a trivia buff or just playing for fun, it’s an easy way to get involved.
Cornhole and Interactive Activities
Classic yard games and casual challenges will be set up for guests of all ages. It’s the kind of low-pressure fun that encourages people to linger and connect.
A Community Atmosphere
More than anything, this event is about spending time together. Expect a warm, welcoming environment where neighbors can meet, friends can reconnect, and families can unwind.
Located at 24 East King Street, Tellus360 is one of Lancaster’s most distinctive venues, known for its multiple levels and rooftop views of the city.
For this event, the space takes on a different character - less nightlife, more neighborhood gathering place. It’s a chance to see a familiar spot in a new way, focused on families and community rather than late-night crowds.
If you’ve never been inside, this is also a great low-key introduction to one of downtown’s most popular locations.
If You Want To See More Groundhog Day Events, Check Out The Prognostication at Conestoga House & Gardens
While most people associate Groundhog Day with crowds in western Pennsylvania, Lancaster has been quietly building a tradition of its own - one that feels personal, peaceful, and rooted in nature.
This year, residents are invited to start their morning with Groundhog Day Prognostication at Conestoga House & Gardens, a charming wildlife-centered celebration featuring two local stars: Elliott and Lilly, the resident groundhogs.
The event runs from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, with the official weather prediction taking place around 10:00 AM.
For families, nature lovers, and anyone who enjoys slow, meaningful local traditions, it’s a refreshing way to welcome February.
At the heart of the event are Elliott and Lilly, the resident groundhogs who will take center stage for the annual forecast.
Visitors will have the chance to learn about groundhog behavior and habitats, and see the animals up close in a supervised, educational setting.
Whether they see their shadows or not, Elliott and Lilly offer a memorable and engaging way for children and adults alike to connect with local wildlife.
See more here: https://www.acornacreswr.com/programs-events/
Trivia Night at Southern Market
Some of the best nights out are the simple ones - good food, friendly competition, and a place where everyone feels welcome. That’s exactly what’s happening this week at Southern Market, with their upcoming Trivia Night in downtown Lancaster.
On Wednesday, February 4, 2026, from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM, locals are invited to gather for an easygoing evening of questions, laughs, and great company.
Enjoy $1 off draft beer and wine during trivia, and compete to win gift cards redeemable at select Southern Market vendors.
West Art Open Mics Are This Wednesday - A Cozy, Creative Stage for Local Talent
West Art is once again hosting its beloved Open Mic Nights, giving local performers and listeners alike a relaxed space to share and enjoy live music and original performances.
Taking place 7:00 PM–9:00 PM in the Art Bar and Coffee Bar, West Art’s open mics are all about connection, expression, and support for local voices - whether you’re a songwriter, poet, storyteller, or fan of live artistry.
West Art Open Mics have grown into a staple of Lancaster’s creative scene. They’re not just about performance - they’re about building community, encouraging artists at every level, and giving local voices a stage.
Whether you’re stepping up to play or settling in with a drink to enjoy the show, it’s a chance to see and be seen, heard, and supported in a truly welcoming space.
📅 When: Wednesday evenings, 7:00–9:00 PM
📍 Where: West Art, 816 Buchanan Ave., Lancaster
That’s todays updates,
Andrew From Lancaster Local