GETTYSBURG, Pa. — The celebration of the nation’s 250th anniversary is well underway in Gettysburg and Adams County, and there’s plenty more to come in the next few months.
With more than 250 events planned throughout the year – from living history programs and special exhibits to family-friendly festivals, concerts, lectures, outdoor recreation and community celebrations – visitors of all ages can experience America’s semiquincentennial in the place where the nation’s story took a pivotal turn.
“America’s 250th anniversary is about more than celebrating our independence; it’s about reflecting on the people, events and sacrifices that preserved the freedoms we enjoy today,” said Carl Whitehill, chair of the Adams County steering commission for America 250PA.
“Gettysburg holds a unique place in that story, and we invite Americans and travelers from around the world to join us in celebrating this milestone anniversary.”
The Battle of Gettysburg, in July 1863, marked the turning point of the Civil War and played a critical role in preserving the Union. Four months later, President Abraham Lincoln visited Gettysburg to dedicate the Soldiers’ National Cemetery and delivered one of the most influential speeches in American history.
On Nov. 18-19, Gettysburg will commemorate the historic two-day visit with “Lincoln at Gettysburg: Shall Not Perish.” Thousands of visitors are expected to gather for the two-day celebration that will honor the president’s legacy and commemorate the Gettysburg Address, which continues to inspire generations around the world.
“In his speech, President Lincoln drew a direct connection between Gettysburg and the country’s founding with the words, ‘Four score and seven years ago,’” Whitehill said. “The nation was founded in Philadelphia, and less than a century later was saved here in Gettysburg. President Lincoln recognized that.”
The Lincoln commemoration is just one of many events planned as part of Gettysburg’s America 250 programming. Others include:
• One Hundred Nights of Taps, 7 p.m. nightly through Labor Day, in Soldiers’ National Cemetery
• “1776, The Musical” at Gettysburg Community Theatre, July 17 to Aug. 2
• Gettysburg National 19th Century Base Ball Festival, July 18-19
• Military Weekend at WWII American Experience Museum, July 24-26
• Dedication of Dobbin House Park, Charters of Freedom, and PA Liberty Bell, Aug. 29
• WWII Weekend at Eisenhower National Historic Site, Sept. 18-20
• Gettysburg Remembrance Day Parade, Nov. 14
A full schedule of events and information about planning an America 250 visit to Gettysburg and Adams County can be found at https://destinationgettysburg.com/america-250th/america-250th-events/.
