Ephrata Main Theatre

The Ephrata Main Theatre is a movie theatre and concert staple in town. With good prices, delicious popcorn, great beer, and a gorgeous building to house it all, the Ephrata Main Theatre is a wonderful and popular attraction. The old theatre has a unique charm and a nostalgic atmosphere that transports friends and families alike back to the golden age of cinema. Catch a movie at the Ephrata Main Theatre during your stay at Historic Smithton Inn!

History of the Ephrata Main Theatre

There are several historic gems around Lancaster County, including your bed and breakfast, the Historic Smithton Inn. One of those treasures is the Ephrata Main Theatre. The original theatre was opened at 124 E. Main St. in 1938. At the time, the movie theatre seated 750 and was the main form of entertainment in Ephrata. Around the time it was constructed, a movie ticket cost 25-cents, and there were lines out the door to see “The Adventures of Robin Hood.” The very first movie shown at the Ephrata Main Theatre was on Christmas Day. The film was “Just Around the Corner,” which starred Shirley Temple. This original building housing the Ephrata Main Theatre was eventually torn down, and a two-screen theatre was constructed, with each screen named in tribute of previous theatres in Ephrata- Roxy and Grand.

Ephrata Movie Theatre Atmosphere

The Ephrata Main Theatre looks like more of a museum than a movie house. It showcases the local history of film, beginning with the throwback marquee. The marquee from the original Ephrata Main Theatre now marks the entrance, and the lighting sconces in the building as well as the theatre seats are also the originals. The Ephrata Main Theatre also hosts glass cases with local memorabilia from all three of the old theatres. The $8 admission might be a jump from the original quarter pricing, but it’s reasonable in this day and age, and that ticket price includes a self-guided tour of the history of cinema in town.

Ephrata Main Theatre Events

There are showcases other than movies at the Ephrata Main Theatre. The theatre also hosts concerts, dance performances, and other artistic endeavors. The adjacent Lily’s on Main will help host private events at the theatre as well, with an easy-to-access catering option. Events that have been hosted at the Ephrata Main Theatre before include family reunions, weddings, fundraisers, recitals, birthday parties, and more. The Grand Theatre can seat up to 200, and professional sound and lighting equipment, as well as the projector and service staff are available for events. The food and bar is also open for use. The banquet room accommodations then include fully customized menus, bar options, tables and chairs, chinaware, and free parking for all guests.

Come Back to Historic Smithton After a Late Night Showing

After a night out eating dinner on Main Street and watching a late night showing at the Ephrata Main Theatre, come back to Historic Smithton Inn for comfortable lodging. You will be able to get a full night’s sleep (sleep off all that popcorn!) before waking up in the morning to gourmet handmade breakfast. For more to do in Lancaster County, download our free vacation guide!