The Knauss Homestead welcomed hundreds of local history lovers to the 4th annual Peach Festival on July 26th!

It was a record-shattering day for attendance at this year’s Peach Festival, held from Noon until 4PM on Saturday at the historic Knauss Homestead in Emmaus, PA.

On a sun-kissed summer Saturday in Emmaus, over 900 guests flocked to the historic grounds of the Knauss Homestead for our most successful Peach Festival yet! This year’s event was a joyful celebration of community, history, and—of course—peaches, brimming with memorable moments and meaningful connections. Guests starting to come in to the Knauss Homestead Peach Festival in Emmaus.

Honoring History

Throughout the day, dozens of guided tours gave visitors a chance to step back in time inside the 1777 Heinrich Knauss House, led by our dedicated volunteers—including members of the Knauss Homestead Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR). Guests were treated to stories of colonial Emmaus and learned about the homestead’s significance in early American life.

An extensive antique display curated by Richard Knauss, Homestead board member and direct descendant of Heinrich Knauss, added further depth to our celebration of the past. Nearby, Beth Beatty from Historic Bethlehem Museums & Sites wowed guests with a live colonial weaving demonstration, keeping traditional crafts alive for a new generation.

A Community Celebration

While we were disappointed that Lucy and Angus, our favorite Clydesdales from Steiner Artisan Farms, couldn’t join us due to a last-minute truck issue, the spirit of the day never faltered. Instead, guests enjoyed a wealth of other delights:

• A lively silent auction featuring an array of fantastic prizes

• Delicious local food from Grub Night and Banana Rama

• Sweet treats from Hausman’s Fruit Farm, Sugar Cycle, and Mara’s Homestead Lemonade

• Caffeinated fuel from the Rolling Brew coffee truck

Local wineries and distilleries kept spirits high, with tastings from Stony Run Winery, Hawk Mountain Distillery, Franklin Hill Vineyard, and Yergey’s Brewing.

Celebrating Local Talent

This year’s Peach Painting Contest was a hit, and we’re thrilled to announce that Julianna Iacocca, a talented young local artist, took home the $100 prize for her joyful “Smiley Peach” painting. Her artwork perfectly captured the cheerful spirit of the day.

Our artisan marketplace was packed with unique finds and handcrafted goods from beloved local vendors, including:

• Cute and Fun Crochet

• Pam Smith Jewelry

• Robert Maletsky Hex Signs

• Nancy’s Crochet Top Towels

• Bags by Martina

• Allison Brady Art

• Thistle and Griffin

• Knit by Debbie

• Mod Metal Works Permanent Jewelry

• Dino’s Kreations

• Lily Bean Cottage

• Excelsior Flowers

Spotlighting Local Businesses

In addition to artists and artisans, the Peach Festival provided a meaningful platform to spotlight several outstanding local businesses making a difference in our community. Members 1st Federal Credit Union was on hand, offering insights into the financial management tools that help small businesses and families plan, grow, and thrive. Lehigh Valley Real Estate pro Stephanie York of Century 21 Pinnacle was on hand to help guide visitors in a busy real estate market and was raffling off an awesome Saquon Barkley signed jersey! We were also proud to welcome Life Maid Easy, who recently opened their headquarters in the Emmaus Triangle. As they continue to expand across the Lehigh Valley, their dependable, thorough, and customer-focused cleaning teams are already making a name for themselves in homes and offices alike.

With Gratitude to Our Sponsors

We extend a huge thank you to Valley Builders, the primary sponsor of this year’s Peach Festival. Their generous support and longstanding commitment to historic preservation have made a lasting impact on the Knauss Homestead. For several years now, Valley Builders has stood by our side, helping us protect and restore this treasured piece of local history. Their continued partnership is a testament to the power of community and the importance of preserving our shared past.

A Moment of Tribute

In a heartfelt and moving ceremony at the Emmaus Remembrance Garden, we laid a memorial brick in honor of John Schmoyer, past President of the Knauss Homestead Preservation Society, who passed away in 2024. John’s leadership and passion were instrumental in preserving the homestead we cherish today. His legacy will forever be etched in the stones beneath our feet and in the spirit of this vibrant community.

A Message from Our President

“It was a great day watching history come alive through the shared experiences of all of our members, community attendees, and talented local artisans,” said Gene Clock, President of the Knauss Homestead Preservation Society. “We hope this sets the tone for 2026, when our entire country will come together to celebrate our 250th anniversary as a country.”

From everyone at the Knauss Homestead Preservation Society, thank you for making this year’s Peach Festival such a rousing success. Your support ensures that this historic treasure remains a vibrant part of Emmaus for generations to come. 🍑

See you at the Emmaus Heritage Festival being held at the Emmaus Historical Society on Saturday, September 20th in conjunction with the Farewell to Summer event!

Want to help preserve the homestead? Become a member today at KnaussHomestead.org/membership.

View Peach Festival Gallery