Adams County Heritage Festival

The Interfaith Center for Peace and Justice presents the Adams County Heritage Festival on September 20, 2025, from 12:00 noon to 4:00 PM at the Gettysburg Area Recreation Park, Adams County, PA.

Entering its 35th year, this annual festival celebrates the diverse cultural heritages of Adams County through music, food, and the arts. Founded in 1992 to include communities often excluded from local celebrations, the festival has grown into a vibrant showcase of the county’s rich traditions.

The festival features performances by four musical or dance groups, each representing a different cultural tradition, along with food vendors highlighting a variety of culinary heritages. Arts and crafts include both vendors and live demonstrations, as well as hands-on activities for children. New additions include interactive booths representing different countries or regions, often staffed by exchange students, where children can complete “passports” by visiting each booth. Local nonprofits are also invited to provide information about their services. Admission is free, making the festival accessible to all families, including those from lower-income backgrounds.

The Adams County Heritage Festival serves both educational and celebratory purposes. It provides opportunities for attendees to learn about the cultural and national traditions of performers, demonstrators, and neighbors, fostering understanding and interaction among diverse communities. At the same time, the festival celebrates the contributions of these traditions to the richness and unity of Adams County.