This summer, Pennsylvanians can beat the heat and get a sweet treat by visiting any of the 30 creameries that make up the 2022 Scooped: An Ice Cream Trail.
On Thursday, the Department of Community and Economic Development Acting Secretary Neil Weaver, Deputy Secretary of Tourism, Film & Marketing Carrie Fischer Lepore, and Department of Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding visited Perrydell Farm and Dairy in York County to sprinkle some summer fun and kick off the fifth annual Ice Cream Trail.
“The Pennsylvania Ice Cream Trail embodies the spirit of Pennsylvania agriculture” said Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding. “The trail drives community spirit while showcasing the best of Pennsylvania dairy and food entrepreneurship. This summer, join me in supporting Pennsylvania dairy farmers and small businesses by exploring the Pennsylvania Ice Cream. It is the sweetest way to connect with friends, family, and the farmers who work tirelessly to ensure wholesome dairy products reach Pennsylvanians.”
Launched in 2018, the Pennsylvania ice cream trail is a partnership between the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture and its PA Preferred program, DCED’s Tourism Office, and the Center for Dairy Excellence. The trail offers a delicious way to support Pennsylvania’s more than 5,200 dairy farm families and the small businesses that source from them while offering a unique opportunity to explore the commonwealth by the scoop.
In Berks County, Way-Har Farm Market is included in the state-wide tour. A third-generation, family-owned business, Way-Har Farm Market has been retailing its milk and ice cream for over 50 years.
In 1970, the Lesher family opened the farm market as a retail dairy store to sell milk directly from their cows. Today, the market is a popular destination for ice cream cones, milkshakes, sundaes, and their very own ‘Way-Har Whips’. Customers also stop into the market for homemade baked goods, deli items, and specialty candies. In addition, Way-Har provides a travelling ice cream wagon and ice cream catering service to serve weddings, fairs, and community events.
“Nothing is sweeter than supporting our small businesses and the dairy industry,” said Acting Secretary Weaver. “The Wolf Administration is proud to celebrate this important industry and some very tasty treats. Pennsylvanians and visitors to the commonwealth should stop by the excellent creameries featured on the trail and join us in scooping up some summer fun!”
June is also National Dairy Month and is the cherry on top of the celebration. Pennsylvania has the second largest number of dairy farms in the U.S. and is ranked eighth in milk production nationally. The Pennsylvania dairy industry provides more than 52,000 jobs and supports the commonwealth’s economy to the tune of $12.6 billion annually. Pennsylvania continues to be a leader in the production of ice cream, butter, and swiss cheese.
This year’s Ice Cream Trail runs across the commonwealth, combining the three separate geographic trails of years past into one delicious experience. Trail-goers can plan their adventure and learn about participating creameries virtually at visitpa.com/scooped. The most dedicated dairy lovers can even earn a special stainless-steel ice cream scooper for completing just 10 check-ins on the trail. Simply stop in at 10 shops, make your purchase, and receive a four-digit code to “check-in.”
