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  • Ephrata Cloister

    Events

Candlelight Open House

Date(s): 11/14/2026
Time: 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Cost: $10/person – Free admission for ECA members and children age 5 and under.

Tickets: No advance registration is necessary! You can purchase your tickets at the door, or buy them in advance online. 

Ticket Link: https://ticketscandy.com/e/candlelight-open-house-21617 

Experience Historic Ephrata Cloister in a whole new light – by candlelight! As the sun sets on Saturday, November 14th, the site’s pathways and buildings glow with the light of candles, creating an unforgettable evening atmosphere throughout the grounds from 5:00pm-8:00pm. This self-guided event allows you to explore the illuminated grounds at your own pace. Step inside the historic buildings to encounter interpreters, skilled craftspeople, and historical demonstrators who will share the stories, trades, and traditions of Ephrata’s past.

Throughout the night, enjoy:

  • Family-friendly activities and happenings perfect for all ages.
  • Vendors and craftspeople displaying their unique, handmade wares!
  • Performances by the Ephrata Cloister Chorus at 5:30pm and 6:30pm in the historic 1741 Meetinghouse. Seating is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis; wristbands are required for entry and are free with admission.
  • Fireside tales and tellings at the bonfire as well as sweet treats available by donation!
  • Costumed interpreters in the cemetery to learn about Ephrata’s historic burial grounds.
  •  Night Hikes by the creek to the Witness Tree.
  • Food and drink will be available for purchase, including delicious local donuts and hot beverages from WDonuts’ Dub Truck!

Don’t miss this chance to experience the site’s rich history brought to life after dark.

Ephrata Cloister

Administered by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission:
Josh Shapiro, Governor – Hayley Haldeman, Chair – Andrea Lowery, Executive Director

Ephrata Cloister is one of 26 historic sites and museums on the Pennsylvania Trail of History.

The Ephrata Cloister Associates is a non-profit organization that partners with the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission to support the preservation and educational mission of this National Historic Landmark.

 

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS:
Ephrata National Bank, Black Forest Brewery/Americana 1777 Inn, Blue Ridge, Conestoga Animal Hospital Inc., Country Homestead, Dairy Queen of Ephrata, Dr. David and Rebecca Fuchs, G.R. Klinefelter Underwriters, Inc., Gus’s Keystone Family Restaurant, Hampton Inn & Suites – Ephrata, Historic Smithton Inn/Weathered Vineyards Ephrata, Horst Auctioneers, New Cloister Restaurant, Olde Lincoln House, Pour Man’s Brewing, Rick Jackson, ELA, Rosenberger North America Akron LLC, Seventh Day Baptist Historical Library and Archives, Tru by Hilton Denver, PA, and Woman’s Club of Ephrata
Open Hours: Wednesday-Saturday 9am-4pm, Sunday 12pm-4pm
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