History and Purpose of DABA

The Dillsburg Area Business Association was born in 1992 with the purpose of promoting the community and local business in the Dillsburg area. While our town has been changing, our goals have not.

DABA is involved in a number of successful community events, starting with PickleFest. The event is held in May, the Saturday before Memorial Day weekend. And what would a PickleFest be without a Pickle Eating Contest? PickleFest is also home to the, Northern York County Historical and Preservation Society Annual Pig Roast, Jaycees 5K Pickle Chase, SoapBox Derby Fun Day, Fire Company Display, & Community Yard Sales. PickleFest isn't so much about preserved cucumbers as it is about a fun and healthy day in our community.

DABA also helps sponsor events at the Annual Farmers Fair held the third weekend in October. Everyone loves Farmers Fair!

For the holiday season, DABA coordinates an annual calendar of events called December in Dillsburg. This publication lists the holiday events of the local businesses, school, clubs, churches, and community organizations hold over the month of December. DABA activities include the annual tree ornament sale with proceeds going to holiday decorations for downtown. And don’t forget the Tree Lighting Ceremony on the first Friday of each December at the Square. There’s music, a proclamation from the mayor, a timely holiday story, and the arrival of Santa Claus. For something a little warmer, there’s the Biennial Holiday House Tour which DABA coordinates with NYCHAPS.

Our year always ends with the Annual Pickle Drop held on New Years Eve in downtown Dillsburg. Be sure not to miss what is a family tradition for a number of local people. Attendees have hailed from just about every state and several foreign countries. The evening includes music, bingo, entertainment for children, chocolate covered pickles, pickle soup, and more. At midnight Mr. Pickle descends into the Pickle Barrel and fireworks fill the sky. Be there!

The Dillsburg Area Business Association is a very active community organization, doing our best to promote pride in the community. It is our pleasure to do our part in helping to make Dillsburg a great place to live, shop and work.