Gettysburg: The Perfect Getaway for Holidays and Special Occasions

At Savor Gettysburg we celebrate Gettysburg as a fantastic destination for special occasions or that long holiday weekend. We love the history, food, endless supply of outings and specialty tours. With culinary temptations for celebrating mom and dad, weekend antique hunting, farmers’ markets and patriotic events, we think you’ll find various spring and summer activities for the picking.

Whether you want to enjoy brunch and then go on a battlefield tour or watch a parade and visit the National Cemetery, here are a few of our favorite “to-dos” that will take the work out of special occasion planning so that you may revel in all the area has to offer. And, as always, our tours are a perfect way to celebrate anyone and any occasion.

Gettysburg reids

Mother’s Day

Reid’s Orchard and Winery

Celebrate mom with a Mother’s Day brunch at Reid’s Home Winery and Tasting Room from 11 a.m.–3 p.m. The alfresco brunch will feature gourmet cuisine buffet style from executive chef J. P. Wolfe. Culinary features will include local products, artisanal cheeses and classic American dishes accented with creative accompaniments and sauces. The culinary celebration will be topped off with an elaborate cake display. The event will include Reid’s version of a mimosa made with their signature Grizzly Hard Cider fermented with champagne yeast and fresh squeezed orange juice. Fresh fruited sangria will also be available. Order tickets here. 2135 Buchanan Valley Rd., Orrtanna, (717) 677-7047

Inn at Herr Ridge Mother’s Day Brunch

Gather your family or make it a party for two with a reservation for Mother’s Day brunch from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. at the Inn at Herr Ridge. Diners will be delighted by the a la carte menu, from the starters through the decadent smoothies and drinks. Reserve your spot by calling (717) 334-4332. 900 Chambersburg Rd., Gettysburg, (717) 334-4332

Historic Round Barn & Farm Market

One of the Gettysburg area’s most unique offerings is the Round Barn. Take mom for a lovely brunch, offered from 11:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m., and dine in the spacious and airy Round Barn. Stop by the farm market downstairs for artisan breads and baked goods, fresh fruit, flowers and more. 298 Cashtown Rd., Biglerville, (717) 334-1984

Gettysburg Farmers Market

Happenings on Lincoln Square

Adams County Farmer’s Markets

The Gettysburg area is home to abundant orchards, wineries, dairies and generations of farming communities. The market offers the freshest fruits (apples, of course!), berries and produce as well as flowers, herbs, artisan cheese, farm eggs, pumpkins, homemade soaps and hand-crafted skincare. Find the market on Lincoln Square Thursdays from 2–6 p.m. starting May 19 and extended to October.

Gettysburg Farmers’ Market

If you don’t make it out of the borough, don’t worry—the agriculture will come to you! The Gettysburg Farmers Market is celebrating its 25th year on the square this season. With dedicated vendors and lots of fresh produce and baked good to choose from, you’ll have plenty of temptations as you make your rounds. Find the Gettysburg Farmers Market on Lincoln Square Saturdays from 7 a.m.–noon starting April 30.

Gettysburg’s Annual Outdoor Antique Show

What is more perfect than attending the semi-annual antique show Saturday, May 21, in one of the most historic towns around? For those who have the “bug,” casually wandering from vendor to vendor is a dream come true. From 7 a.m.–4 p.m., rain or shine, Lincoln Square is transformed into an outdoor market with antique treasures from more than 125 vendors. This is a perfect opportunity to snag a true souvenir from the area and participate in this cool event.

Gettysburg Antique show

Patriotism Reigns Supreme

Memorial Day Parade and Ceremonies

As one of the longest-running Memorial Day parades and ceremonies in the country, this year marks the 149th anniversary of the parade’s beginnings. With the traditional pomp and circumstance associated with patriotic parades, the parade begins Monday, May 30, at 2 p.m. at Lefever Street, heads northeast to Middle Street, turns west on East Middle Street and then south on Baltimore Street to the Soldiers’ National Cemetery. The Memorial Day Ceremony takes place at 3 p.m. at the Rostrum in the Soldiers’ National Cemetery.

Father’s Day

Sharpshooters Grille

Enjoy on the deck or get them to go: Rip’s hard shell crabs will be available at 11 a.m. at Sharpshooters every Sunday including Dad’s special day. Pair them with a beverage, warm weather and the unrivaled company of your family and friends. 900 Chambersburg Rd., Gettysburg, (717) 334-4598

Historic Round Barn & Farm Market

Treat Dad to a “hoppy Father’s Day” from 11:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. with freshly brewed craft beer from Thirsty Farmer Brew Works and delicious BBQ prepared on-site. Kick back and enjoy entertainment from local musicians (formerly of Klinger McFry). Additional games and activities will be available for the entire family. 298 Cashtown Rd., Biglerville, (717) 334-1984

Live Battle Reenactment

153rd Gettysburg Anniversary Reenactment

The reenactment will be held July 1–3, coinciding with the dates of the actual 1863 battle. For those who remember Gettysburg the movie from the early 1990s, starring Martin Sheen, Jeff Daniels and Sam Elliott, the reenactment will be held on the site of the movie’s filming, overlooking the Round Tops and historic Sachs Mill Covered Bridge, adjoining Gettysburg National Military Park. Spectator tickets are available here.

No matter the occasion, Savor Gettysburg has you covered to find the ideal outing or tour that meets your needs. Be sure to check back on more upcoming events around Gettysburg this spring and summer!

Erin Phelps

Photo credits: Wine bottles, Savor Gettysburg Food Tour; farmers’ market, Gettysburg Farmers’ Market; antiques market, Gettysburg Area Retail Merchants Association