The aroma of freshly baked bread and the sweet tang of homemade jams filled the air as Lauren stepped into Kitchen Kettle Village, a charming cluster of shops nestled in the heart of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. She had heard stories about the place from her grandmother, who visited years ago, and now she was here with her children, eager to experience the magic herself. As she walked past the rows of colorful preserves, handmade quilts, and intricate Amish crafts, she realized that Kitchen Kettle Village wasn’t just a shopping destination—it was a celebration of tradition, family, and craftsmanship. Here, in the middle of Pennsylvania Dutch Country, generations of artisans and shopkeepers shared their heritage with visitors from around the world, and Lauren couldn’t wait to dive in.
Kitchen Kettle Village, a beloved attraction in Intercourse, Pennsylvania, offers a unique blend of shopping, dining, and immersive cultural experiences, all set against the picturesque backdrop of Amish country. In this article, we’ll explore the history of Kitchen Kettle Village, its enduring appeal, the experiences it offers, and how it has grown to become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Lancaster County. We’ll also look at the numbers behind its success, the role it plays in supporting local businesses, and its importance in preserving Pennsylvania Dutch culture.
A Rich History of Family and Tradition
Kitchen Kettle Village began in 1954 when Bob and Pat Burnley started selling homemade jams and jellies from their garage. With a passion for preserving local traditions and a knack for creating delicious products, their business quickly grew. What began as a small family operation has since evolved into a thriving village of over 40 unique shops and attractions, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors each year (Kitchen Kettle Village Official Site).
Despite its growth, Kitchen Kettle Village remains a family-run business. Today, it is managed by the second and third generations of the Burnley family, who have stayed true to the original mission of showcasing the rich culinary and craft traditions of the Pennsylvania Dutch. The heart of the village is still The Jam & Relish Kitchen, where visitors can watch employees create over 90 varieties of jams, relishes, and salsas—all made by hand, just as they were when the business first started.
A Must-Visit Destination in Lancaster County
Lancaster County is known for its rural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and Amish communities, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. According to the Lancaster County Tourism Bureau, the county attracts over 8.34 million visitors annually, contributing more than $2.91 billion to the local economy (Discover Lancaster Annual Report). Kitchen Kettle Village plays a significant role in this tourism boom, offering a one-of-a-kind shopping and cultural experience that draws people from across the country.
One of the main reasons for the village’s enduring appeal is its focus on authenticity. Each shop is carefully curated to reflect the traditions of the region, from hand-stitched quilts to locally sourced produce. The shops themselves are often run by local artisans or family-owned businesses, giving visitors a chance to purchase items that genuinely represent the craftsmanship of Lancaster County.
Some of the most popular stores in the village include:
- The Jam & Relish Kitchen: Offering free samples of homemade preserves, jams, and other gourmet products.
- Deerskin Leather Shop: Specializing in handcrafted leather goods, from belts to wallets.
- Village Quilts: Featuring an array of beautifully crafted Amish and Mennonite quilts.
- The Smokehouse Shop: Selling local meats, cheeses, and snacks that reflect traditional Pennsylvania Dutch recipes.
A Culinary Experience Like No Other
One of the highlights of visiting Kitchen Kettle Village is the food. In addition to the famous jams and relishes, visitors can sample and purchase a variety of traditional Pennsylvania Dutch foods, many of which are made on-site or sourced from local farms. Amish soft pretzels, whoopie pies, and shoofly pies are just a few of the regional specialties that draw foodies to the village.
The village also features The Kling House Restaurant, a cozy eatery located in a historic home dating back to the early 1900s. The restaurant serves up a range of hearty dishes, many inspired by Amish and Mennonite cuisine. For example, visitors can enjoy chicken pot pie, ham loaf, or apple dumplings—all staples of Pennsylvania Dutch cooking. The restaurant’s farm-to-table approach ensures that diners experience the freshest, most authentic flavors of the region.
For those who want a more immersive culinary experience, Kitchen Kettle Village offers cooking demonstrations and classes that teach visitors how to make classic dishes using local ingredients. These classes have become a favorite among tourists, allowing them to take a piece of Lancaster County home with them—both in knowledge and in taste.
An Immersive Cultural Experience
In addition to shopping and dining, Kitchen Kettle Village offers visitors the opportunity to engage with the unique culture of the Pennsylvania Dutch. Throughout the year, the village hosts special events that celebrate local traditions, such as Amish Buggy Rides, Quilt Camps, and Jam & Relish Cooking Demonstrations. Visitors can also enjoy live performances of traditional music, including bluegrass and folk, which add to the village’s lively, welcoming atmosphere.
One of the most popular events is the Rhythm & Blues Festival, held annually in the summer. This family-friendly event features live music, craft demonstrations, and food trucks serving up regional favorites. According to the organizers, the festival draws thousands of visitors each year, with many returning year after year to experience the village’s vibrant energy.
Additionally, the village’s Christmas in the Village event is a festive celebration that includes horse-drawn carriage rides, visits with Santa Claus, and holiday-themed cooking classes. This event draws families from all over Pennsylvania, offering a magical holiday experience against the backdrop of twinkling lights and snow-covered streets.
The Numbers Behind Kitchen Kettle Village
The economic impact of Kitchen Kettle Village on Lancaster County is significant. According to a study by the Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development, small businesses like those at Kitchen Kettle Village contribute over $6.5 billion annually to the state’s economy through sales, employment, and tourism (PA DCED Economic Report). Kitchen Kettle Village itself attracts over 1 million visitors each year, making it one of the top tourist destinations in the county.
In addition to its economic contributions, the village plays a crucial role in preserving the culture and traditions of the Pennsylvania Dutch. By offering local artisans and craftspeople a platform to showcase their work, Kitchen Kettle Village ensures that the unique skills and knowledge of the region are passed down through generations. The village’s focus on sustainability and supporting local businesses has also helped it to maintain its charm and authenticity over the years.
The Future of Kitchen Kettle Village
As Kitchen Kettle Village continues to grow, the Burnley family remains committed to preserving its original mission. In recent years, the village has expanded its offerings to include more interactive experiences and modern amenities while still maintaining the charm and authenticity that visitors have come to love. Plans for the future include:
- Expanding the culinary program.
- Offering more behind-the-scenes tours of the Jam & Relish Kitchen.
- Enhancing the village’s sustainability initiatives.
The village has also embraced the digital age, with a solid online presence that includes virtual tours, e-commerce options, and an active social media community. According to the Lancaster Online Business Journal, the village’s online sales have increased by 25% in the last year alone, as more people seek to bring the taste of Pennsylvania Dutch country into their homes, even if they can’t visit in person (Lancaster Online Business Journal).
Conclusion: A Timeless Destination
Kitchen Kettle Village is much more than a collection of shops and restaurants—it’s a place where tradition and innovation come together to create an experience that resonates with visitors of all ages. For families like Lauren’s, it offers a chance to step back in time and immerse themselves in the culture and history of the Pennsylvania Dutch. With its focus on local craftsmanship, culinary excellence, and community engagement, Kitchen Kettle Village has become a beloved destination for tourists from around the world, all while supporting the local economy and preserving a way of life that’s rooted in the land.
Whether you’re sampling jams at The Jam & Relish Kitchen, browsing through handmade quilts, or simply soaking in the atmosphere of Lancaster County, Kitchen Kettle Village offers something for everyone. It’s a place where memories are made, traditions are celebrated, and the spirit of Pennsylvania Dutch country comes alive.
