GETTYSBURG, Pa. — As summer gives way to cooler air and vibrant foliage, residents and visitors alike can experience the fall harvest in Adams County and support local farmers through a new mobile passport trail.
Autumn in Adams County is more than a colorful season. It is the culmination of a year’s work by local farm families whose operations contribute significantly to the county’s economy, landscape and quality of life.
“Every dollar spent with a local farmer has a ripple effect throughout Adams County,” said Karl Pietrzak, president and CEO of Destination Gettysburg. “Supporting our farmers helps to ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy the vibrant rural character that makes Adams County such a special place to live and visit.”
With more than 20,000 acres of orchards across South Mountain’s historic Fruit Belt, Adams County is Pennsylvania’s leading apple producer. Visitors can experience the harvest firsthand by picking apples, enjoying fresh-baked treats and sampling locally crafted ciders and wines.
The new Adams County Field to Festival Trail (fieldtofestival.com) is a free digital experience from Destination Gettysburg. The mobile passport trail features farm markets, craft beverage makers and festivals throughout Adams County.
One of the highlights of the trail is the National Apple Harvest Festival, held during the first two weekends of October in Biglerville. Recognized as one of the nation’s premier apple celebrations, the festival draws tens of thousands of attendees each year.
Other festivals on the trail include:
• Aug. 15-16 – Gettysburg Brewfest, Gettysburg
• Aug. 28-30 – Thirsty Farmer Thirstypalooza, Biglerville
• Sept. 12-13 – Gettysburg Wine & Music Festival, Gettysburg
• Sept. 19-20 – 13th Annual Sweet Potato Festival, East Berlin
“Agriculture is a cornerstone of our economy and identity in Adams County,” Pietrzak said. “Each of these festivals is a celebration of our history.”
For information on orchards, farm markets and other seasonal events in Adams County, visit destinationgettysburg.com.
