Mike Sensenig, one of the organizers of Heritage Days in Intercourse, a two-day celebration held at the Intercourse Community Park, noted that although planners try to include both traditional and new activities that attendees will like, just seeing friends and neighbors is a huge draw. "A lot of people just want the opportunity to come and socialize," Sensenig said.

This year's Heritage Days celebration will be held in the park, 3730 Old Philadelphia Pike, Gordonville, on Friday, June 16, and Saturday, June 17. On June 16, activities will begin at 5 p.m., and on June 17, the Intercourse Fire Company pancake and sausage breakfast for purchase will kick off the day at 6:30 a.m.

The Intercourse Library will hold activities for children beginning at 5:30 p.m. on June 16. A bounce house, barrel train rides, and a pedal tractor pull will also be available for children to enjoy.

Those who enjoy court sports may want to try their hands at pickleball. "We have new pickleball courts," said Sensenig, who noted that a person knowledgeable about pickleball will be at the courts to offer free instruction to those who bring their own paddles and sign up to play. Court times will be from 5:30 to 7 p.m. on June 16. On June 17, times will be 10 to 11:30 a.m., 2 to 3:30 p.m., and 4:30 to 6 p.m.

Sensenig pointed out that the trivia contest, which will be held in the food tent on June 16 beginning at 7:30 p.m., was new in 2022. "That will be fun," he said. "It was a lot of fun last year." The popular volleyball tournament will be held from 5 to 9 p.m. on June 16 and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on June 17. "Volleyball is big," said Sensenig. "That (competition) brings so much energy to the event." This will be the second year for the cornhole competition. This year, The Factory Ministries will be organizing that event, and an $800 grand prize will be offered to the victors. Readers may register for that contest at http://www.thefactoryministries.com.

Hands-on demonstrations have been a traditional part of Heritage Days. Horseshoeing demonstrations have been held in the past. This year, Jeff Long will demonstrate making horseradish. The Intercourse Fire Company will hold a demonstration involving a fire truck in the afternoon on June 17.

The food showcase, billed as "a Lancaster County flavor fest," will highlight area restaurants. New additions this year will include Dienner's Country Restaurant, which will have a stand offering a meal, and the Village Cafe from Intercourse.

The observance of Heritage Days has always included a variety of entertainment. New this year will be the Ironwood Drive Band, a country gospel music group, which will play on June 16 at 6:30 p.m. "That's a little different (from the group we had in the past)," said Sensenig. June 17 entertainment will include the Terry G. Show at 3 p.m. "Terry G. plays 1960s music," said Sensenig of the musician who will appear at the event for the fifth time. "He does a great show." The Churchmen will be back to perform from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. on June 17, and the concert will be followed by a fireworks display beginning at dusk.

Readers who would like to learn more may visit http://www.intercourseheritagedays.com. Those with specific questions may call 717-768-8585.