George Washington is central to Ken Burns’ latest documentary series, The American Revolution. As Burns has observed, “He’s deeply flawed. He owned hundreds of human beings. But without him, we don’t have a country.” Christopher Jackson’s groundbreaking performance as Washington in the Broadway hit Hamilton required intense preparation and a nuanced approach to portraying the iconic Founding Father. Burns and Jackson will discuss bringing Washington to new generations of Americans.This event is part of the 2026 Gettysburg Film Festival: American Revolution.Purchase your tickets below.FREE/ VIP & Festival Pass Holders$60/Priority Seating, click here.$35/General Admission, click here.
From early setbacks to hard-won victories, this conversation—paired with a special clip screening—explores how the American Revolution was fought on the ground, led from the top, and sustained through extraordinary sacrifice. Ranging from battlefield tactics to command decisions and the lived realities of revolutionary warfare, the discussion examines how a fragile, makeshift Continental Army managed to defeat the most powerful empire on earth.Ken Burns is joined by four-star General (Ret.) Stanley McChrystal, and bestselling author Rick Atkinson for a wide-ranging look at strategy, leadership, and the improbable path to American independence.This event is part of the 2026 Gettysburg Film Festival: ... Read This Story
The American Revolution: American Military Screener will be presented at the Gettysburg Branch of the Adams County Library System, located at 140 Baltimore Street in Gettysburg, on May 7 from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. This program features selected excerpts from Ken Burns’ The American Revolution, highlighting the military history and strategy of the Revolutionary War. The screener invites audiences to reflect on the tactics, leadership, and conflicts that shaped the fight for independence and offers an engaging opportunity to learn more about the war’s pivotal moments.
Reenactor Recruitment Day will take place on Saturday, March 14, 2026, from 12:00 noon to 4:00 p.m. at the Gettysburg Heritage Center. The Heritage Center once again hosts this annual event, which continues to grow each year by bringing reenactor groups together to connect with new members and fellow enthusiasts. The program is designed for those curious about what it takes to become a reenactor as well as seasoned participants looking to explore new units. Nearly 30 groups are expected to attend, with the majority portraying the Civil War, along with representation from World War I, World War II, and ... Read This Story
The Latimore Fishing Derby takes place on Saturday, May 9, 2026. Trout stocking occurs from 7:30 a.m. to 8:00 a.m., followed by the fishing derby from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. This year marks the 24th year that Adams County Trout Unlimited (ACTU) hosts this free community event, giving children the opportunity to experience the fun of fishing alongside their families. Over the years, more than 2,000 children ages 5 to 15 have participated. Prizes are awarded for the largest trout in each age group, and all participants are able to choose a prize from a wide selection of fishing-related ... Read This Story
24th Annual Blavatt Lecture featuring David M. Rubenstein features The Declaration of Independence at 250: Its Origins and Importance on Tuesday, February 3, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.David M. Rubenstein will speak at the 24th Annual Blavatt Lecture hosted by the Eisenhower Institute at Gettysburg College. His lecture will explore the origins and enduring significance of the Declaration of Independence as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary.The Blavatt Lecture series highlights leaders who offer firsthand perspectives on American public life while emphasizing truth, justice, and civil discourse.Mr. Rubenstein is a Baltimore native and is the Chairman, CEO, and principal owner of ...
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A Short History of Folk Music is the first program in a three-part series taking place on Wednesday, March 11, from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Adams County Library, Gettysburg Branch.Guests are invited to join Dr. Doug Morris, a West Chester University professor, for an evening of singing and commentary exploring the rich tradition of American folk music from 1840 to 1940. The program will highlight field songs, freedom songs, railroad songs, protest songs, union songs, Dust Bowl songs, and more.Audience participation is encouraged through singing, percussion, shared insights, and dialogue, creating an engaging and interactive experience.
Registration is required.
The Founding Mothers is a special program taking place on Thursday, March 5, from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Adams County Library, Gettysburg Branch.Guests are invited to join Valerie Gugala for an engaging presentation that highlights the powerful and often overlooked women who helped fight for independence. Serving as spies, soldiers, fundraisers, and more, these courageous individuals played a vital role in shaping the nation’s future.Registration is required for this program.
Whispers from the Soul is a special program taking place on March 4, 2026, from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Adams County Library, Gettysburg Branch, located at 140 Baltimore Street.The community is invited to join Michael Smith, a published author and recording artist, for an inspiring musical journey featuring Native American flutes and sound bowls. The evening offers a peaceful opportunity to return to a natural state of clarity and calm, followed by a thoughtful discussion on living with unconditional love and inner peace.This program represents both education and preservation by honoring the historical context of the founding of ... Read This Story
Doreen Laskiewicz of Doreen Laskiewicz Photography hosts Destination Gettysburg’s April Coffee Chat, guiding members through the art of taking scroll-stopping photos that capture both the beauty of their business and the spirit of Gettysburg. The session explores lighting, composition, editing, and visual storytelling techniques designed to elevate marketing and strengthen online presence. Registration is encouraged, and beverages and breakfast snacks will be provided.Register here.
Austin Poulson, Creative Content Specialist at Destination Gettysburg, hosts the March Coffee Chat, focusing on the power of short-form video in today’s social media landscape. With TikTok and Instagram Reels dominating online engagement, this session explores how businesses can use video more effectively through practical filming techniques, strong storytelling strategies, and platform-specific insights designed to help their content stand out and shine. Register here. Beverages and breakfast snacks will be provided.
Vaughn Crouse, Director of Partnership at Destination Gettysburg, hosts the February Coffee Chat, inviting members to discover how partnering with member businesses can create themed experiences and joint promotions that attract visitors and encourage longer stays. The session highlights how creative collaboration can build lasting value for both guests and local businesses, strengthening connections across the community while enhancing the overall Gettysburg experience. Registration is encouraged, and beverages and breakfast snacks will be provided.
