Morning Lancaster. Happy (almost Valentine’s day).
Admittedly, I haven’t been to downtown Lancaster in a month or two.
I was pleasantly surprised to see new shops opening and the city gradually warming up after all the snow (though my trip yesterday was WAY too windy - I almost blew away!)
In this edition of the Lancaster Local, I share about a new book store next to Prince Street Cafe (that’s where I’m writing this from right now), share details about a cool game night, and share a cool deal in town.
Here’s what I think is worth your time today.
A New Chapter on Prince Street: Pocket Books Brings Indie Energy to Downtown Lancaster
Image taken by me
I wasn’t intending to find a cool indie bookstore today, but on my way to Prince Street Cafe to write this edition, I found it right next door.
Tucked along Prince Street, between brick storefronts and city foot traffic, there’s a new independent bookstore called Pocket Books on Prince.
From the outside, it’s modest.
A hanging sign.
Books stacked in the window.
Nothing flashy.
But step inside and it’s immediately clear this isn’t trying to be a giant bookstore.
It’s trying to be a good one.
The shelves are clean and bright.
Books are displayed face-out so you can actually see what you’re picking up.
Image taken by me
While it’s not the biggest store, it’s the perfect size in Lancaster. And the owner told me there’s a bigger store on Wheatland Avenue - I’ll have to go check that out next.
There’s something refreshing about a bookstore that isn’t chasing volume.
It feels more like someone said, “Here are books we actually believe in.”
And in a city that’s been steadily building out its coffee shops, galleries, record stores, and specialty food spots, it makes sense that an indie bookstore would find its place too.
Not everything needs to be ordered online in 12 seconds.
Sometimes you just want to wander in, run your fingers across the spines, and leave with something you didn’t know you were looking for.
If you’re downtown this week, pop in.
Free Game Night in Elizabethtown This Friday the 13th
Image submitted to the editor by the host of the game night
Looking for something low-key and actually fun to do this Friday night?
There’s a free community game night happening in Elizabethtown - and everyone’s invited.
Snacks are provided. Games are provided. You just have to show up.
The group meets twice a month (second Friday and fourth Thursday) at 6:30pm in the downstairs hall at 425 Cloverleaf Rd #9320, Elizabethtown - and the next one lands on Friday the 13th.
No superstition required.
This isn’t just one type of game night.
There’s a wide selection available - everything from Candyland to Brass: Birmingham, and just about everything in between.
Whether you’re a casual player who just wants to laugh and roll some dice, or the kind of person who owns a shelf of strategy games at home, there’s something here for you.
Not sure how to play anything?
Perfect.
If you join a table, whoever is setting up the game will gladly teach you. No experience needed.
The only guideline: minors need to be accompanied by an adult. Childcare isn’t offered, so ages 12 and up is the general suggestion - but it’s a fuzzy rule. If you have a 10-year-old who genuinely loves playing games they’re welcome too.
If you’ve been looking for something that’s social without being loud, competitive without being intense, and genuinely welcoming - this might be it.
Friday. 6:30pm.
Bring a friend. Or just bring yourself.
Deal Alert In Lancaster City For Anyone Who Loves Candy!
Image from https://vintage-candy-shop.square.site/
Today’s a good day for anyone with a sweet tooth.
BOGO caramel pretzel rods are happening now through Feb 15th - that means buy one, get one free on their hand-dipped chocolate caramel pretzel rods. Just mention the deal at checkout to score the extra treat.
Plus, Vintage Candy Shop is running Valentine’s discounts through the end of the month - think 14% off all purchases when you mention their promo in store.
Whether you’re grabbing a gift for someone special or just treating yourself, it’s a little holiday-weekend sweetness worth stopping for.
Click here to see their inventory and check out their site: https://vintage-candy-shop.square.site
Laugh Out Loud at Friday Night Improv: GO BULLDOGS!
If your Friday night plans are still up in the air, here’s a fun one to consider: Friday Night Improv: GO BULLDOGS! is happening this Friday, February 13th, from 7-8 PM at the Lancaster Improv Theater in downtown Lancaster.
“GO BULLDOGS!” is one of the longest-running improv teams from Lancaster Improv Players - a rotating cast of students, coaches, and local performers who build hilarious, totally unscripted scenes on the spot. It’s the kind of show where you never know exactly what’s coming next - and that’s part of the fun.
Whether you’d like something funny to close out your Friday the 13th or you’re just in the mood for an easy night out with friends, this is a great, low-pressure way to enjoy live comedy in Lancaster.
Lancaster Improv Theater - 16 S Prince Street, Lancaster
Friday, Feb. 13 - 7 PM–8 PM
That’s todays updates,
Andrew From Lancaster Local