Today
in Lancaster
Friday, April 17th, 2026
Good morning, Lancaster. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 17th of April.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Big Brothers Big Sisters of South-Central Pennsylvania held their Bowl for Kids' Sake fundraiser at Palmyra Bowling on Thursday — planned regional events in York, Gettysburg and Mount Joy aim to raise $270,000 to support youth mentoring for over 1,300 children. FOX43
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Long’s Park Amphitheater Foundation announced its free summer concert series at Long’s Park, running every Sunday from June 7 to August 23. The series will start with a performance by Parker Barrow. WGAL
- ➤ Jonathan Groff, a Lancaster County native who is a Tony and Grammy winner, was named one of Time magazine's 100 most influential people of 2026—he is highlighted in the Artist category after starring as Bobby Darin in Just in Time on Broadway. WGAL
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Thaddeus Stevens — a pioneer for free public education and a leader in ending slavery — helped form Pennsylvania’s modern schooling and civil rights, with local historians noting how his early life challenges and legislative dedication shaped a better future. Local 21 News
- ➤ Student teachers may receive a $10,000 stipend through the PA Student Teacher Support Program and mentors can earn up to $2,500 — applicants must meet eligibility requirements and commit to teaching in state schools for at least three years, with applications due Sept. 15. Local 21 News
- ➤ Homeschooling has been rising in central counties since the pandemic, with Lancaster County leading at nearly 5,000 students now learning at home. Local events like Hershey Gardens' Spring Homeschool Day and community co-ops give families hands-on chances to explore flexible education & build support. Local 21 News
- ➤ Manheim Township students including eighth-grade girls and a senior boy formed the team One Small Step for an Axolotl and won the state championship. The team is ranked 51st in the world and will compete in Texas to vie for the world title while inspiring more girls to pursue STEM. WGAL
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Firefighters worked to control a wildfire reported at 2:20 p.m. Thursday in the woods off Chickies Hill Road between Breezyview Road and Route 30 in West Hempfield Township — no injuries or road closures were reported. Local 21 News
- ➤ Dry, breezy conditions are raising wildfire risk in South-Central Pennsylvania today, with humidity as low as 20 percent and winds near 25 mph. Residents are urged to use caution with ignition sources (machinery, cigarettes, or matches) to help prevent rapid fire spread. WGAL
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Faith Friendship Villa in Mountville has been given a one-year deadline to secure sustainable funding after raising $726,000 toward a $2 million goal. The board warns the care facility will close if it fails to secure lasting community support. Local 21 News
- ➤ The CDC reported that rotavirus is spreading nationwide and poses a major health risk to infants, causing vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration; local health officials urge parents to vaccinate children and practice regular handwashing to minimize outbreaks. The virus is expected to continue spreading in the coming weeks. Daily Voice
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The Concert - A Tribute to ABBA
3-6 p.m. — American Music Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the magic of ABBA with an all-Swedish cast in one of the top tribute shows worldwide.
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Long Island Ducks vs. Lancaster Stormers
7:59 p.m. — Penn Medicine Park — Ticket prices vary — Catch an exciting matchup between the Long Island Ducks and Lancaster Stormers.
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Trivia Night at Southern Market
7-9 p.m. — Southern Market Lancaster — $1 off beer and wine — Engage in a fun-filled evening of trivia with friends while enjoying great drinks and exciting prizes.
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JOSHUA Live at Sight & Sound
3:00 p.m. — Sight & Sound Theatres — Ticket prices vary — Experience the biblical story of Joshua come to life on stage in an engaging musical performance.
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Turn It Up Dance Challenge
May 8-10 — Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square — Registration required — Experience a vibrant dance competition with opportunities for scholarships and industry recognition.
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The Planets Concert
7:30-9:30 p.m. — Gardner Theatre — Cost Information Not Provided — Experience a breathtaking finale with Holst's The Planets and stunning NASA imagery.
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May Sing Along Brunch
10 AM - 2 PM — Trio Bar And Grill — Free entry — Enjoy brunch cocktails and belting out tunes with friends in a judgment-free zone.
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TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
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Reveal the authorAbout Today in Lancaster
Welcome to the Today in Lancaster, your community newsletter that's anything but snooze-worthy, packed with positive, impactful local news + events across the Lancaster, Pennsylvania community. If you like the Today in Lancaster, support us by subscribing to our email newsletter and sharing us with your friends and family in Lancaster.
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