As the North Wind blows and the snowflakes fly, remember it won't be long to spring. Spring in Lancaster County means the return of an annual tradition, mud sales. Mud sales are held in the Spring every year throughout Lancaster County. Mud sales earned their nickname because they are held from the end of February through the middle of April just as the ground is thawing and turning to mud.

Mud sales are an annual fundraiser held by local volunteer fire companies. These companies are manned entirely by volunteers, not only for fundraising activities, but also to handle any and all emergency calls in the area.

Held in the local farmers' fields, mud sales have numerous auctioneers going at one time and selling anything from food, tools, household goods, farm equipment, mowers, bikes, antiques and even the kitchen sink. A highlight of every mud sale is the handmade quilt auction which goes on most of the day.

And, of course, if you are in Lancaster County, there must be good food close by. Mud sales come with a variety of menus ranging from homemade chicken corn soup, French fries, milk shakes, hand twisted pretzels, baked goods and so much more.

Grab your galoshes! Head to Lancaster County, mingle with the Amish, tramp through the muddy fields, find a great bargain and support the dedicated, hard working volunteers who protect Lancaster County!

Suggestion: Hershey Farm Restaurant and Inn is within 15-30 minutes of all these sales listed below. Why not book a room at the Inn and make it a weekend getaway to the area?

Feb. 27-Strasburg (www.strasburgfire.com)
Mar. 6-Bart Twp (www.bart51.com)
Mar. 13-Gordonville (www.gordonville.com)
Mar. 20-Bart Twp (Building materials)
Mar. 27-Gap (www.gapfire.org)
Apr.3-Robert Fulton (Peach Bottom, PA)
Apr. 10-Rawlinsville (Holtwood, PA)