A Taste of Tradition: New Amish Market Brings Old-World Charm to York, PA
In the heart of York County, Pennsylvania, a new Amish market is breathing fresh life into the local food scene. The Maple Grove Amish Market, which opened its doors in January 2025, has quickly become a bustling hub of activity, drawing both curious locals and out-of-town visitors eager to experience a slice of Amish culture and cuisine.
Located on the outskirts of York, the market occupies a sprawling 20,000-square-foot building that was once a defunct warehouse. Now, it’s a vibrant marketplace filled with the aromas of freshly baked goods, the colorful displays of farm-fresh produce, and the gentle clop of horse hooves in the parking lot.
John Stoltzfus, one of the market’s founding members, explains the vision behind Maple Grove: “We wanted to create a place where our Amish community could share our traditions and craftsmanship with our English neighbors. It’s about building bridges and preserving our way of life.”
The market features over 30 vendors, each offering a unique taste of Amish culture and cuisine. One of the most popular stops is Sarah’s Bakery, where the aroma of freshly baked shoofly pies and whoopie pies fills the air.
“I never expected such enthusiasm for our traditional recipes,” says Sarah Miller, the bakery’s owner. “On weekends, we often have lines out the door. It’s a blessing to share our food with so many people.”
Another crowd favorite is Yoder’s Furniture, where master craftsman Eli Yoder creates bespoke pieces using time-honored woodworking techniques. “Each piece tells a story,” Yoder says. “We use locally sourced wood and methods passed down through generations. It’s gratifying to see how much our English customers appreciate the craftsmanship.”
The market’s produce section, run by the Lapp family, has become a go-to spot for local chefs and home cooks alike. “We’re bringing back small-scale farming to an area that had seen many family farms disappear,” explains Rebecca Lapp. “People appreciate knowing where their food comes from and how it’s produced.”
For many visitors, the market offers more than just shopping – it’s an experience. Emily Thompson, a York resident and regular customer, shares her thoughts: “Coming here is like stepping back in time. The quality of the products is outstanding, and there’s something special about buying directly from the people who made or grew what you’re purchasing.”
The market has also become a popular destination for tourists. Tom Jenkins, visiting from Baltimore, was impressed by his first visit: “I’ve never seen anything quite like this. The attention to detail in everything from the hand-stitched quilts to the homemade jams is remarkable. It’s well worth the drive.”
However, the market’s success hasn’t come without challenges. The influx of visitors has led to increased traffic in the area, and local officials have had to work closely with the Amish community to ensure safety, particularly for horse-drawn buggies sharing the roads with cars.
County Commissioner Mark Thompson acknowledges the adjustments: “It’s been a learning process for everyone, but the Amish have been great partners in finding solutions. Their presence has added a unique character to our community.”
The Amish vendors have also had to navigate the delicate balance between maintaining their traditional lifestyle and meeting the demands of a modern marketplace. Many have embraced solar power for refrigeration and wind energy for cash registers, demonstrating a pragmatic approach to technology.
Samuel Lapp, who runs a small engine repair shop in the market, explains: “We’re not against all technology. We simply try to use it in ways that don’t disrupt our family and community life. It’s about being intentional with our choices.”
As the market continues to grow in popularity, there are plans for expansion. Bishop Amos Stoltzfus, a community leader, reflects on the future: “Our goal is to create a sustainable marketplace that stays true to our faith and values while contributing positively to the wider York community.”
The Maple Grove Amish Market represents more than just a new shopping destination – it’s a bridge between cultures, a celebration of traditional craftsmanship, and a reminder of the enduring appeal of simple, authentic experiences in our fast-paced world.
As the sun sets over the rolling farmland surrounding York, the clip-clop of horse hooves and the laughter of children playing in the market’s courtyard serve as a gentle reminder that sometimes, moving forward means taking a step back – to a simpler, more connected way of life.
Citations:
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