Updated 8/2019
I know people often association Gettysburg with the Civil War and the great battles fought there. I have spent time exploring the battlegrounds, hunting for otherworldly spirits and strolling around town, but did you know Gettysburg has so much more to offer beyond the historic sites.
Gettysburg is also known for farms, orchards, wineries, and shopping. On top of that, Gettysburg is one of the top destinations in the region for the most magical time of year.
TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY
During the holidays, Gettysburg is transformed into a winter wonderland experience for visitors that want to embrace the holidays with small-town hospitality.
The season starts Nov. 24 with the annual tree lighting ceremony in the historic Lincoln Square.
There are cookies and cocoa, carolers, an appearance from Santa Claus and an abundance of holiday cheer.
AN 1860’s CHRISTMAS
You can celebrate like it’s 1860 at the Shriver House.
From Thanksgiving weekend through the month of December, the Shriver House Museum is offering “A Civil War Christmas” which includes a candlelight tour of the Christmas-decorated museum to learn how the Shriver family prepared for the upcoming Christmas holidays.
CHRISTMAS AT EISENHOWER NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE
Similarly, the Eisenhower National Historic Site, a former presidential home, is decorated for a 1950s-style Christmas in the styling of Dwight and Mamie Eisenhower throughout the month of December.
The house will be full of decorations, a kitchen full of cookies and a dining room set for Christmas dinner. This month-long celebration includes a holiday reception with cider and cookies Saturday, Dec. 10.
DOWNTOWN GETTYSBURG CHEER
On Dec. 2, businesses all along Steinwehr Avenue will be decorated and offering special activities, events, products and discounts all day.
There will be free carriage rides from the Victorian Carriage Company, a brass band and, of course, Santa Claus himself.
End the day along the streets of historic downtown Gettysburg for the annual Olde Getty Place Christmas Parade.
A CHRISTMAS CAROL
What has become a favorite holiday tradition and celebrated by thousands of theatergoers, the timeless tale of redemption of the human soul, “A Christmas Carol,” returns to Gettysburg’s Majestic Theater.
The same weekend of opening night is another spectacular show you won’t want to miss, the annual Holiday Tuba Carol Fest on Dec. 8. Tuba players from all over the country come to Gettysburg to play Christmas carols as their deep and rich sounds spread throughout Lincoln Square.
GETTYSBURG HISTORIC HOLIDAY HOUSE TOUR
The Holiday House Tour will give guests a chance to walk through some of Gettysburg’s historic homes, inns and properties which are decorated for the holidays. Visitors will be able to sample specialty dishes and local wines.
WHERE TO STAY IN GETTYSBURG
Gettysburg has many accommodations from holiday travel including hotels, bed and breakfasts and inns – many of which offer winter getaway packages. The already charming, quaint inns and bed and breakfasts become event cozier during the holiday season.
CELEBRATE NEW YEARS EVE
The season caps off with a New Year’s Eve Celebration in Lincoln Square. Throughout the evening, revelers will enjoy great food, entertainment and finally, fireworks over the iconic Gettysburg Hotel.
CALENDAR OR EVENTS/MORE INFO
Visit Destination Gettysburg for more information and to see the complete holiday line up.
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The Victorian Carriage Company has holiday Town rides with special musical guests and civil war santa! December 9, 10, 16 and 23rd! Reservations required and can be made at http://VictorianCarriageCompany.com