Adams County is buzzing with free holiday events this season!
By Katelynn Henry
From festive music to sweet treats and fun activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Bring your friends and family, and make the most of these seasonal celebrations without spending a dime!
Remembrance Day Weekend
Lee’s Headquarters Remembrance Day Weekend Open House
401 Buford Ave., Gettysburg
Nov. 14, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
Start Remembrance Day weekend by visiting the home of 69-year-old widow Mary Thompson. In 1863, her home became Gen. Robert E. Lee’s headquarters, serving as a key position for the Confederate line. Preserved in its wartime appearance, the property transports visitors back in time.
Remembrance Day Illumination
97 Taneytown Road, Gettysburg
Nov. 15, 5:30–9:30 p.m.
Continue the commemoration at Gettysburg National Cemetery. With more than 3,000 Civil War soldiers buried there, each is honored with a luminary candle. The ceremony is a moving tribute to service, bravery and sacrifice.
Adams County Historical Society Fall Fest
625 Biglerville Road, Gettysburg
Nov. 22, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
Some of the vendors include:
Fur Babee’s Pet Bakery & More
Show your fur babies just how much you love them with a special treat. Browse a variety of goodies—even for the toughest chewers—and grab a festive bandana so your best friend can be holiday-ready.
Somethin’ Wonderful
It isn’t the holidays without something sweet! Stop by Somethin’ Wonderful’s stand to sample pies, cakes and cookies. Grab something for yourself or stock up for your next holiday party.
Mula Soap Company
Create a thoughtful self-care bundle with face and body soaps, lotions, balms, salts and scrubs. They also offer dish soap, laundry soap and more.
Foothills Artists Studio Tour
Nov. 22–23, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. daily
foothillsartists.net
Explore the vibrant arts community tucked into the Fairfield Valley, just west of Gettysburg, during the Foothills Artists Studio Tour. This free, self-guided tour features eight studios and 14 artists, offering a hands-on view into the creation of paintings, pottery, printmaking, jewelry, fiber arts, woodworking and more. Stroll through scenic countryside, meet the artists in person, and take home one-of-a-kind pieces inspired by the region’s natural beauty.
Participating Artists:
Erin Brown, Daryl Despres, Andrea Finch, Anne Finucane, Jack Handshaw, Chris Herbert, Sarah Maclay, Heidi Myers, Judy Pyle, Jóh Ricci, Jayne Shord, Gretchen R. Shutt, Geoffrey Thulin and Debbie Westmoreland
A Gettysburg Christmas Festival
Tuba Fest
Lincoln Square, Gettysburg
Dec. 5 at 7 p.m.
agettysburgchristmasfestival.com
Listen to the glorious sounds of the holidays while singing along to well-known Christmas songs and sipping hot chocolate. The ensemble is made entirely of volunteer tuba players—some local, some from out of state. With varying ages and levels of experience, they come together in the spirit of celebrating the holidays as a community.
Gingerbread Celebration & Holiday Market
125 S. Washington St., Gettysburg
Dec. 5, 3–8 p.m.; Dec. 6, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.; Dec. 7, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
Visit the Adams County Arts Council Education Center during the Christmas festival and take part in a beloved tradition. Admire and vote for your favorite gingerbread house while shopping goods from local artisans. Don’t miss the gingerbread bake sale and children’s activities.
A Very Vintage Christmas
3095 Emmitsburg Road, Gettysburg
Dec. 6, 8 a.m.–4 p.m.
Some of the vendors include:
Franklin’s American Traditions
Capture the beauty of a vintage Christmas. Pose with your family beside Franklin, the classic 1949 Ford F1, staged with beautiful holiday decorations—picture perfect for this year’s family Christmas cards! Don’t forget to browse the unique antiques after your photo op.
Rusty Naill Pallet & Co
Explore handmade items from this Hanover-based artisan shop. Creativity meets sustainability as they provide quality products made from recycled materials. Find the perfect heartfelt gift for your friends and family—and maybe a little something for yourself too.
