The Historic Ephrata Cloister, 632 W. Main St., Ephrata, will commemorate its role as a Revolutionary War military hospital during a celebration on Saturday, June 27, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event will also commemorate the United States' 250th anniversary.

The Historic Ephrata Cloister was the site of a Revolutionary War military hospital from December 1777 to June 1778. The hospital accommodated 260 soldiers, 60 of whom died and are buried on the grounds of the historic site. During this commemorative event, visitors may learn more about the military hospital and its impact on the pacifist members of the Ephrata Cloister.

Visitors may learn about 18th-century medicine, printing, camp life, and being a pacifist during wartime. They may visit the Witness Tree on the property as well as the monument honoring the soldiers in the Mount Zion Cemetery. Food and drinks will be available for purchase. The Ephrata Cloister Chorus will give a special performance at 4 p.m. in the Amphitheater, and seating will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Some activities will require a wristband, which can be obtained upon paying admission. Wristbands are required for select performances and will operate on a first-come, first served-basis.

Among the programs requiring a wristband is the Lantern Tour Reprise, which will be held multiple times in the 1741 Meetinghouse, also known as the Saal. The tour will focus on the impact of the military hospital on the pacifist community.

"The Life of a Sister" will be held in the 1743 Sisters' House, also called the Saron. Attendees will learn about the lifestyle of a solitary Sister and how the Sisters aided the soldiers through herbal medicines and remedies. A wristband is required.

The event will take place rain or shine. On-site parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis. There is an admission fee for people over age 2 who are not members of the Ephrata Cloister Associates. Members and children age 2 and under will be admitted for free. Tickets will be sold on the day of the event, and no advance sales will be available.

People with disabilities who need accommodations should call in advance to discuss their needs. Pennsylvania TDD relay service is available at 800-654-5984.