06/09/2026
On Saturday, June 27 from 10am to 4pm join us for Ephrata Cloister 1776: An America250 celebration! 🎉🇺🇸✨
From December 1777 to June 1778 the Ephrata Cloister was the site of a Revolutionary War Hospital. Ephrata's hospital accommodated 260 soldiers of which 60 of these soldiers died and are buried on the grounds of our site. During this special 250th event, visitors can learn more about the military hospital and its impact on the pacifist members of the Ephrata Cloister.
Throughout the day there will be performances, family-friendly activities, lectures, demonstrations, music in the Amphitheater, and more! Food and drink will be available for purchase from the Happy Dog Kettle & Grill. Other food options include Ephrata Church of the Brethren famous Milkshakes, Lancaster Soft Pretzels, and East Cocalico Lions French Fries!
Event highlights:
- See Ephrata's military hospital brought to life in the 1741 Meetinghouse!
- Learn about the sisters and their herbal medicines in the 1743 Sisters' House.
- Hear music in the Amphitheater with a special performance by our Ephrata Cloister Chorus to close out the event.
- Visit the witness tree on property, as well as the monument honoring the soldiers in the Mount Zion Cemetery.
Tickets can be purchased at the door and are $5/person for non-members. Ephrata Cloister Associates members receive free admission. Children under age 3 are free.
Wristbands are required for select performances. After paying admission, visitors can pick up a wristband for a specific performance time. These wrist bands are first-come first-served.
This event is rain-or-shine, and parking is first-come first-served with additional parking available at the Ephrata Senior High School and the Ephrata Business Center. We hope to see you there!
