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In the late 1950s, Earl Jamison traveled to the quaint town of Carmel, Calif., and was inspired to reproduce a unique shopping village in Lahaska, Pa. In June 1962, he opened Peddler’s Village to the public.
Today the 42-acre site is home to 70 unusual specialty shops, six restaurants, the 70-room luxurious Golden Plough Inn and a family entertainment center featuring an antique operating carousel.
Free special events and seasonal festivals draw 3 million visitors to Peddler’s Village each year. The village has become a sought-after site for weddings, holiday parties, reunions, retirement bashes and picnics.
From a simple roadside country market to a multifaceted village of fine shops, elegant dinning and luxurious lodging, a common thread is woven through the late Jamison’s tapestry of dreams — a commitment to carry on the tradition of country hospitality.
The Cock ‘n Bull has served as the flagship restaurant for more than four decades. It is this richly decorated colonial-style restaurant, with Jamison’s personal collection of fine art and antiques, that serves as a home to Susan and Jim Hewitt’s comedy mystery theater.
The current offering is Steve Andres’ Expiration Date, a zany knockabout mystery featuring a lively comedy improv troupe. Using the location of a posh day spa, the "anything goes" plot involves the audience as much as the actors. It is a place where you would not want to relax — a spa where you get rubbed down and rubbed out.
The comedy mystery theater is a great lure for office parties, anniversary outings and birthday celebrations. Folks who have been here like the idea of giving the dinner theater show as a gift — certificates are readily available.
The dinner at the Cock ‘n Bull includes a classic Caesar salad, roast prime rib of beef, or grilled chicken portabello or flounder Florentine, followed by a chocolate mousse cake. I had the flounder and thought it was very nicely done. You will find Mr. Tony Cibik, the headwaiter at the dinner theater for the past four years, to be a most genial host.
There are two upcoming events at Peddler’s Village you might want to keep in mind.
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The Teddy Bear’s Picnic
This Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. "Beary" charming competitions and activities for teddy bear owners and buffs of all ages. Bear owners join in parades and compete for wonderful prizes in various categories. Teddy bear craftspeople market their cuddly wares. Hurt bears receive tender loving care and repair at the Bear Care Clinic. Also, bear appraisals and live entertainment. Admission is free.
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The International Food and Fun Fair
Aug. 9-10, 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Featuring a country sidewalk sale, food and entertainment from around the world. There will be a competition among the chefs of Peddler’s Village in the annual cook-off. Admission is free.
You can get lost for hours in the unique one-of-a-kind specialty shops, so plan to make a day of it. If you choose to explore further, the drive up to New Hope is a most pleasant ride.
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Expiration Date
Cock ‘n Bull Restaurant
Peddler’s Village
Lahaska, Pa.
Through Sept. 27
Tickets: $35 per person
215-794-4000
ext. 6040
www.peddlersvillage.com
