Wayfaring Wednesday

The Millionaires You’d Never Guess Are Right Here in Lancaster

The Sweetest Taste: A Stroll Through the Taste of Lititz

  • Date – June 6, 2025 (last weekend)

  • Time – 5:00 - 9:00 p.m.

  • Location – Main Street Lititz

Sometimes the best nights are the ones you don’t plan. My husband and I had a sudden change of plans last weekend, and as we were figuring out what to do with our evening, he casually said, "You know, I think something's going on in Lititz tonight."

He was right.

We decided to head into town and made our first stop at New Holland Coffee Company, one of our favorite local spots. We lingered there for a bit—just soaking in the relaxed vibe—before wandering toward the closed-off block where the Taste of Lititz was in full swing.

It felt like stumbling into a living neighborhood storybook. The streets were lined with tables and tents from some of the area’s best small businesses, each offering samples, small bites, and handcrafted goods. I ran into Nino from Picolo Eatery, an old friend and one of Lititz’s culinary gems. We chatted for a bit, and I also met another business owner who I can’t wait to feature soon in a Facebook spotlight post.

There’s something incredibly warm about this event. It's not just about food—though there’s plenty of that. It’s about the people. The familiar faces, the smiles, the live music floating through the air, and the charm of a community that still knows how to gather and enjoy the simple pleasures.

Lititz never disappoints. The Taste of Lititz is a reminder that community tastes best when it’s shared—bite by bite, smile by smile.

If you missed it this year, mark your calendar for next June. You’ll want to savor this one.

“When you buy from a small business you’re not helping a CEO buy a third vacation home. You are helping a little girl get dance lessons, a little boy his team jersey, a mom put food on the table, a dad pay a mortgage or a student pay for college.”

Terre Hill Days: Small Town Magic, Big Summer Fun

June 26, 2025 to June 29, 2025

6/26&27: 5pm-10pm | 6/28: 10am-10pm | 6/29: 10:30am-3pm

If you've never been to Terre Hill Days, let me just say—you’re missing out on one of Lancaster County’s sweetest little summer traditions.

Last year, my family and I headed there for the evening, not expecting much more than a few vendors and maybe a funnel cake. What we got instead was a full dose of small-town magic. We wandered through the festival, bumping into so many familiar faces that it felt more like a family reunion than a public event.

At one point, I discovered a delicious new wine from Kog Hill Winery (I highly recommend trying a bottle if you get the chance). While I can’t say for sure whether I had cotton candy that night, I wouldn’t bet against it. You kind of get swept up in the moment.

We even managed to lose part of our group for a while—turns out they’d gone off to ride the rides without saying a word. That’s the kind of place Terre Hill Days is: safe enough to let the kids wander a bit, fun enough that you won’t even mind when they do.

And the fireworks? Absolute magic. There’s something about sitting under a summer sky, surrounded by neighbors, friends, and the sounds of children laughing while bursts of color light up the night. It’s wholesome, it’s nostalgic, and it’s one of those evenings that lingers in your memory.

If you’re looking for that classic Americana summer feeling, Terre Hill Days delivers. Bring a blanket, your favorite people, and a little room for surprise—and maybe, just maybe, a ride ticket or two.

The Millionaires You’d Never Guess Are Right Here in Lancaster

When most people picture millionaires, their minds drift to high-rises in Manhattan or mansions in Malibu. But if you’ve lived in Lancaster County long enough, you know: some of the wealthiest folks around are also the most unassuming.

They might drive an older truck. Their boots might be muddy. And their home—while expansive—probably sits quietly behind a tree line, with a wraparound porch and a sweeping view of fields instead of fountains. That’s the Lancaster way.

Wealth Woven into Work Ethic

Many of Lancaster’s millionaires didn’t inherit fame or fortune. They built their wealth through grit, consistency, and smart decisions. Farmers who bought land decades ago now find themselves holding assets worth millions. Small business owners—plumbers, builders, cabinetmakers—slowly grew empires, one job at a time. And real estate investors, often born and raised right here, saw opportunity in the places others overlooked. (By the way - ask me if you want to know more about real estate investing)!

One local contractor once told me, “You wouldn’t believe how many guys in the trades quietly retire with seven figures in the bank.” And it’s true. They didn’t flash their wealth—they just invested in what they knew: land, tools, property, and people.

The Power of Land

Here in Lancaster, land is legacy. It's not just about money—it's about roots. Some families still farm the same acres their great-grandparents once plowed. And with farmland values skyrocketing—especially near growing areas like Lititz, Ephrata, and Manheim—that "old farm down the road" might now be worth millions.

And many don’t sell. That’s another piece of the puzzle. Wealth here isn’t always about liquidity; it’s about holding onto something meaningful. The land might not be on Zillow, but it’s quietly gaining value with every passing year.

The Millionaire Next Door (Literally)

You might’ve stood next to one in line at Root’s Market. Or bought firewood from them in Leola. Or sat behind them at church. Lancaster’s wealthy don’t always wear their net worth. They value privacy. Generosity. Stewardship. And many see their success as something to be used wisely, not shown off.

They’re the quiet philanthropists funding scholarships or supporting missions work. The grandparents writing a check for their grandkid’s college tuition. The landowners who donate acres for community gardens or trails.

Why It Matters—Especially for Real Estate

As a local real estate agent who works with high-net-worth clients and investors, I see the undercurrent of wealth in this county all the time. Sometimes it’s someone looking to downsize from a historic estate. Sometimes it’s a buyer paying cash for 40 acres with no plans to build anytime soon.

Lancaster may not flaunt its affluence, but make no mistake: this is a county of quiet power. Of people who built well, lived simply, and believed in planting trees they may never sit under.

Final Thoughts

So next time you pass that farmhouse with the weathered barn and the porch swing—don’t underestimate what’s tucked away behind the hedgerow. There’s a good chance the person inside is sipping coffee with a view worth seven figures, reflecting on a lifetime of hard-earned success.

And honestly? That might just be the most inspiring kind of wealth there is.

Inspiration

Sandra Burkholder

EXP Realty – Licensed Real Estate Agent since 2000

Serving Lancaster, Chester, Berks and York County PA

With a passion for connecting people to their dream homes and investment opportunities, I bring a professional yet approachable touch to every real estate transaction. Specializing in high-value residential properties and commercial real estate, I combine a sharp eye for detail with a deep understanding of buildings, honed through my experience conducting insurance inspections for commercial and high-value homes. This expertise allows me to provide unique insights to clients, ensuring they make confident and informed decisions.

My career is built on a foundation of trust, expertise, and a commitment to creating community. As a Lancaster County local with a background in urban living from my time in Philadelphia, I offer a unique perspective on rural, suburban, and city lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking your dream luxury home, exploring investment opportunities, or making your first real estate purchase, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.

When I’m not working with clients, I’m a busy mom to 8 amazing kids (most are adults now): 2 biological, 2 stepchildren, 2 through domestic adoption, and 2 through international adoption. I also love baking cakes, experimenting with international recipes, and spending time with my 2 cats and 2 dogs. My new Shichonpoo, Lyric, is often seen by my side, adding a bit of charm to my day-to-day adventures. I’m also passionate about weight training, relaxing with jazz and blues music, and indulging in red wine and very dark chocolate.

Let’s work together to achieve your real estate goals with expertise, care, and a personal touch!

Not intended to solicit any properties already listed for sale with another real estate agent. If your home is already for sale, then please disregard this message.