A Guide to Lancaster's Unique Amish Mud Sales

The fascinating culture of the Old Order Amish community is a major draw for tourists who choose Lancaster County as a vacation destination. One way to catch a glimpse of authentic Amish living is by attending a mud sale. What is a mud sale, you ask? Well, these outdoor auctions generally take place in the spring after the thaw when the ground is still muddy, hence their name. The sales feature various items such as furniture, tools, quilts, antiques, horses and household goods, but they are much more than just an auction. They are a gathering of the Amish community and a time for socializing and renewing old acquaintances.

At an Amish mud sale, you'll find horse-drawn buggies parked side-by-side with cars; hear conversations spoken in both English and Pennsylvania Dutch; and observe how members of this unique community interact with each other through bidding on goods. Even if you don't want to purchase anything (although there are some amazing deals), it's still worth attending just for the experience. There's a mud sale taking place somewhere in Lancaster County almost every weekend from late-February through mid-April, although some do take place during the summer and fall as well. Check out the 2023 schedule of mud sales here.

One of the most unique aspects of the mud sales is the fact that the Amish community still runs them using traditional auctioneering methods. The auctions are conducted in a fast-paced and energetic manner, with the auctioneer calling out the bids in a rhythmic chant. This style of auctioneering has become a hallmark of the mud sales and adds to their charm and appeal.

Another highlight of the mud sales is the food. The Amish are famous for their delicious, home-style cuisine, and the tasty offerings you'll find at mud sales are no exception. Visitors can enjoy a variety of sweet treats, including homemade pies, cookies and whoopie pies, as well as traditional Amish food such as shoofly pie, chicken corn soup and scrapple. The food is sold in large quantities, making it easy for visitors to take home a taste of Lancaster County.

The Amish mud sales are more than just an auction; they are a time-honored tradition that showcases the Amish community and their unique way of life. Visitors from all over the world come to Lancaster County to experience the excitement and energy of these auctions, sample the delicious food and learn about the Amish culture. When you plan your next stay at B.F. Hiestand House here in Amish Country, attending an Amish mud sale should definitely be on your list of things to do. It's a must-see event that offers a fascinating look into Amish life and a distinctive Lancaster County experience that you will never forget.