The Taste of Lancaster County: Homegrown Summer Produce at Shady Maple Farm Market

Summer in Lancaster County is a season of abundance. When the fields are rich with fresh-picked produce, and the flavors are as vibrant as the landscape itself. At Shady Maple Farm Market, we’re proud to continue a tradition of local freshness that began decades ago, right here in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country.

Rooted in Tradition

Shady Maple began as a modest roadside stand in the 1970s, selling homegrown produce and home-baked goods straight from the family farm. What started as a small, honest effort to serve the local community has grown into one of the region’s largest and most beloved markets — still family-owned, and still deeply committed to supporting Lancaster County farmers.

Today, we continue that legacy by sourcing much of our summer produce directly from local produce auctions, where farmers bring their daily harvests to market. That means the fruits and vegetables you find at Shady Maple were likely picked just hours earlier — ensuring freshness you can see, smell, and taste.

What’s Coming This Summer:

Peaches

The first of the peaches are here!

Tomatoes

Nothing compares to a Lancaster County tomato — juicy, vibrant, and full of homegrown flavor. From slicing and canning to salads and salsas, these beauties are a summertime essential.

Sweet Corn

Picked fresh from local fields and delivered straight from auction, our sweet corn is crisp, tender, and incredibly sweet. Grill it, boil it, or eat it right off the cob — you’ll taste the difference.

Cantaloupes

Fragrant and naturally sweet, our cantaloupes are grown in rich Lancaster soil and harvested at peak ripeness. They make the perfect light snack or breakfast fruit.

Watermelons

Juicy, refreshing, and perfect for hot summer days — our locally grown watermelons are a crowd favorite for picnics, parties, or just chilling on the porch.

Cucumbers

From snappy salad cucumbers to classic pickling varieties, these crisp green veggies are a staple of the season. Many come in fresh from auction the same day you buy them.

Peppers

Sweet bells, mild heat, and vibrant color — Lancaster County peppers are as flavorful as they are beautiful. Ideal for grilling, stuffing, or slicing fresh.

Cabbage

Our locally grown cabbage is dense, flavorful, and ready for everything from coleslaw and grilling to traditional PA Dutch dishes.

Eggplant

Meaty and mild, these eggplants are perfect for roasting, grilling, or breading. A favorite for vegetarians and meat-lovers alike.

Green Squash (Zucchini)

Zucchini is one of the most versatile vegetables of the summer. Grill it, sauté it, spiralize it, or bake it into breads and muffins — it’s a garden staple for a reason.

Why Local Auctions Matter

Our buyers visit Lancaster County produce auctions daily, hand-selecting the freshest fruits and vegetables from trusted, local growers. It’s a time-tested way to ensure quality, support neighboring farms, and keep our produce stands brimming with the best of the season — all while preserving the strong agricultural roots that have defined this community for generations.

Fresh. Local. Lancaster County.

As we celebrate another summer harvest, we invite you to experience the flavors of home. Stop by Shady Maple Farm Market often — our selection changes daily based on what’s freshest from the field. Whether you’ve shopped with us for decades or are visiting for the first time, you’ll taste the same care, tradition, and local pride in every bite.

Come discover what Lancaster County grows best — and why Shady Maple has been your trusted source for farm-fresh food for over 50 years.

Under the Maple: Inside Shady Maple, Lancaster County’s Iconic Attraction

Under the Maple: Inside Shady Maple, Lancaster County’s Iconic Attraction

Shady Maple, a Lancaster County landmark, has grown from a humble roadside produce stand in the 1960s into a destination featuring the largest buffet in the U.S., a 130,000-square-foot farm market, and a 44,000-square-foot gift shop. In the first episode of Under the Maple, CEO Lin Weaver shares the company’s journey, its commitment to change, and its deep roots in Amish country. With a focus on quality, community, and customer experience, Shady Maple continues to evolve while preserving the values that make it a must-visit attraction in Pennsylvania.

read more
Make Your Holidays Stress-Free with Shady Maple Take-Out

Make Your Holidays Stress-Free with Shady Maple Take-Out

Shady Maple Smorgasbord Take-Out makes holiday meals easy and stress-free. Enjoy traditional favorites like turkey, mashed potatoes, yams, and more without the hassle of cooking. With a nightly menu full of variety and convenient options, you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time celebrating with family. Visit today and make your holidays flavorful and worry-free.

read more
A Pre-Holiday Feast: Why Thanksgiving Should Last All Month

A Pre-Holiday Feast: Why Thanksgiving Should Last All Month

Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be just one day—at Shady Maple Smorgasbord, you can enjoy holiday favorites all month long. From carved turkey and creamy mashed potatoes to our famous stuffing and sweet corn, every visit feels like a celebration of thankfulness and family. While we’re closed on Thanksgiving Day, take-out options make it easy to bring the flavors you love home. Start your holiday season early and savor the taste of tradition today!

read more