Reasons to Visit Gettysburg this December

The charm of Gettysburg. If you’ve never visited Gettysburg during the holiday season, it’s straight out of a movie. Grab that cup of cocoa and explore the historic downtown – filled with unique shops, cafes, wineries, galleries and more all surrounded by the perfect blend of history and holiday spirit.

Get a taste of Gettysburg through our amazing restaurants that feature holiday menus, special seasonal drinks and lots of hot beverages to keep you warm as you meander through the charming downtown or head off to see a show.

Shopping is special in Gettysburg. Find your favorite people a unique gift in any one of our locally owned shops downtown, farm markets in the countryside or at the outlet mall just south of town. You’ll find a wide assortment of home décor, clothing, food and more.

The Gettysburg Christmas Festival kicks off December in a big way! Featuring live entertainment, delicious food, kids’ activities, games and more, this annual event brings it all together over one weekend – December 6-8.

Ghosts aren’t just an October thing in Gettysburg. Join the Jennie Wade House for a “Spirits of Christmas” tour on December 6, and learn about the story of Gettysburg’s beloved Jennie Wade, who was the only civilian killed during the three days of battle in 1863.

One of Gettysburg’s most historic sites, the Daniel Lady Farm, invites you to explore their tastefully decorated home on December 6 and 7. The best part – enjoy a toasty fire, s’mores and carols after your tour.

If you’re looking for that Hallmark movie moment, take a holiday carriage ride through Gettysburg with Horse Tours of Gettysburg. Their 30-minute Christmas Carriage Ride shows you the holiday charm of Gettysburg while taking passengers through the historic downtown.

The annual performance of “A Christmas Carol” is a highlight of every holiday season in Gettysburg. Visit the 100-year-old Majestic Theater from December 6-8 or 13-15 for this amazing story brought to life by the Totem Pole Playhouse. Photo courtesy of Majestic Theater.

Get a glimpse how the 34^th president celebrated the holidays with tours of the Eisenhower National Historic Site on Fridays and Saturdays throughout December. Learn and see how Ike and Mamie celebrate the holiday as America’s first family – complete with Christmas décor, a table set for a feast and gifts under the tree.

If you’re looking for an old-fashioned holiday event to warm your soul, the annual Gettysburg Tuba Carol Fest on the steps of the Hotel Gettysburg is a perfect way to get into the spirit. This event, held on December 13, brings together tuba players from around the country for this all-invited sing-along.

The holiday charm in Gettysburg is put on display thanks to a returning event by the Adams County Historical Society. The Gettysburg Holiday House Tours invite guests to explore 12 different historic homes decorated for the holidays. The event runs December 14-15 throughout Gettysburg and the countryside.

If twinkling lights put you in the holiday spirit, head out to the Outlet Shoppes of Gettysburg where a quarter-million lights and decorations surround you as you shop for your favorite people. Enjoy Santa, free carriage rides and other events throughout the month.

Celebrate Christmas with the World War II American Experience Museum. The highlight of this event is the taxi from “It’s a Wonderful Life,” proudly displayed in the museum lobby alongside trains and other World War II holiday memorabilia.

Say goodbye to 2024 and hello to 2025 at the New Year’s Eve event at the Wyndham Gettysburg Hotel. Hosted by the Gettysburg Battlefield Preservation Association, this event includes everything you need to ring in the new year – food, friends, fun and plenty of rooms to book an overnight stay.