What is a Mud Sale?
In Lancaster County, spanning from late winter to early spring, Mud Sales take place throughout various towns. These events, which are auctions where furniture, antiques, handmade crafts, and farm equipment are sold, are a cherished tradition. They not only provide a great opportunity to find unique items but also serve as key fundraisers for local volunteer fire companies. With a festive atmosphere and the spirit of community, Mud Sales attract both locals and visitors, offering a glimpse into the culture and values of the Amish and Mennonite communities.
If you have previously attended a mud sale, we would love to hear about your experiences! Share them with us on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.
Above is footage from an authentic mud sale held in Lancaster County. Like Mardi Gras in New Orleans, these events are experiences you don’t want to miss. However, the average mud sale can be overwhelming for the first-time visitor. If you’re planning to attend a mud sale for the first time, continue reading our tips for making the most of your experience.
Top 10 Tips for Attending a Mud Sale
1. Shoe choice
It’s called a mud sale for a reason. Most mud sales happen in early spring when the ground is starting to thaw out, which results in lots of mud. Lancaster is also known for its heavy rainy season so bring an umbrella just in case.
2. Cash, Check, Credit
It’s always a good idea to have several payment methods available. While all mud sales accept cash and personal checks, some are advancing and even accept credit cards. Check first at the registration desk and inquire about accepted forms of payment.
3. Partner in Crime
Attending a mud sale with a friend is important. You will need someone to save your seat during bathroom breaks. You’ll need a helping eye because auctions are fast pace, sometimes it is hard to keep up! If you are a serious bidder, you’ll also want someone to save your seat as you stuff your face full of whoopie pies.
4. Go hungry
Mud sales are famous for quilts, farming equipment and buggies but don’t forget the most important part of the sale- the food! You can look forward to chicken corn soup, soft pretzels and chicken BBQ. You won’t be able to miss the tables filled with whoopie pies, fasnachts, strawberry pies, and breads.
5. You snooze, you lose
Go early to get the best seat and to start previewing the merchandise. We suggest you arrive around 7 am and plan to stay the whole day. If you arrive late, parking can be hard to find.
6. Get your lucky number
You will find the bid numbers at the registration table. They will need to see your driver’s license so don’t leave it in the car. At the register table don’t forget to pick up a program. This is where all of the items to be auctioned are listed.
7. Rhythm of the sale
Each auctioneer has his own style, but it’s always fast-paced. We suggest that you never bid on the first offered amount, instead let the price drop and then jump in. The price can increase very quickly so it’s important to know the style of the auctioneer.
8. Don’t go crazy
Try to stay cool, calm and collected during the auction. Getting emotionally attached to an item will cause you to overbid and over spend.
9. Full Buggy
A full day of purchases will leave you with more than you can handle. It’s always a good idea to plan how to get all the goodies back home. Sometimes the Amish children that are hanging around will help take your purchases back to your car for a small fee.
10. Have Fun
This is the most important tip. Take in this one in a lifetime experience and enjoy the food. We also encourage you to come to our farm and take a tour. We’d love to hear about your mud sale stories.
