Celebrating the Holidays in Historic Gettysburg
December 11, 2024For those in search of an enjoyable holiday destination, historic Gettysburg, Pennsylvania is a wonderful place to visit at year’s end. Knowledgeable travelers seeking fun-filled holiday activities during the area’s tourism “off-season” will find plenty to do and experience during the winter months. The splendid town and surrounding area provide a full list of enjoyable holiday opportunities for winter visitors to celebrate the holidays in Historic Gettysburg.
Winter Battlefield Tours
The glory and majesty of the Gettysburg Battlefield is undiminished by the onset of winter. Fewer tourists, combined with less road and foot traffic, enable winter visitors to experience the battlefield in a quieter, more introspective manner, well-suited to the dignity of the fabled site. Visitors can tour the historic fields of Gettysburg throughout the winter months in the comfort of a climate-controlled guided tour bus, escorted by an expert battlefield guide licensed by the Gettysburg National Military Park.
Licensed Guided Battlefield Bus Tours provide visitors with the most informative and detailed tour available in Gettysburg, year round. Tours are currently available through the end of December (weather permitting), and after a short holiday hiatus will begin again on January 11th, 2025, continuing into the new year.
Explore a Museum
When the weather turns colder, there’s no better time to expand your historical knowledge in an indoor setting by visiting the many enjoyable museums of Gettysburg. These include such famous and award-winning destinations as the Seminary Ridge Museum, the innovative Cyclorama at Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center, and the state-of-the-art 3D exhibitions at the Gettysburg Heritage Center. Winter is a great time to avoid the crowds while experiencing the history of this historic town and the legendary battle that was fought here.
Ghost Tours
Do the cold winter evenings chill you to the bone, or do those chills come from another, scarier source? It’s the time of the season to join Ghostly Images of Gettysburg for their special Winter Combo Tour, a 90-minute excursion inside two of the most Haunted Houses in the Gettysburg. You’ll venture into the The Jennie Wade House, where the only civilian casualty of the battle was tragically killed. You’ll also experience the Haunted Orphanage, where the spirits of the mistreated and imprisoned are believed to manifest! Tours run at 9:00 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays in December.
Holiday Carriage Rides
When: Every Friday and Saturday, 4 PM – 8 PM (Nov. 29 – Dec. 21)
Where: The Outlet Shoppes at Gettysburg, 1863 Gettysburg Village Drive
Step into a storybook setting with complimentary horse-drawn carriage rides at The Outlet Shoppes. Draped in dazzling holiday lights, the carriages trot down Main Street as the gentle sound of jingle bells fills the crisp winter air. Perfect for families, couples, or solo adventurers, this enchanting experience lets you soak up the beauty of Gettysburg’s holiday magic.
And while you’re there, be sure to explore the shops for holiday deals and grab a hot cocoa to keep you warm during the ride!
More Info: Visit their website
Holiday Dining
There’s no better time than year’s end to indulge your taste for fine food and unique dining experiences! Gettysburg offers a wide selection of excellent restaurants, and with such a variety of restaurants to choose from, there’s bound to be something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for an intimate dinner in a historic location, new world ambiance, or old world atmosphere, if you want to share an authentic regional experience with friends and family… Gettysburg offers amazing dining opportunities.
Totem Pole Playhouse Presents A Christmas Carol
When: Dec. 6-8 and Dec. 13-15, 7:30 PM
Where: Majestic Theater, 25 Carlisle St., Gettysburg
Immerse yourself in tradition with a heartwarming performance of A Christmas Carol. Hosted at the grand Majestic Theater, this adaptation by the Totem Pole Playhouse presents Charles Dickens’ classic tale with dazzling stagecraft and uplifting performances. It’s the perfect way to ignite your holiday spirit and share a magical night with loved ones.
Act quickly—tickets to this award-winning production are always in high demand!
More Info & Tickets: Majestic Theater
Book a Cozy Bed & Breakfast
Not all vacations require rampant activity… rest and relaxation are important, too! And a relaxing visit to one of the many welcoming bed and breakfasts in the area offers an enjoyable winter destination without surrendering the warmth of a home away from home. Just relax and decompress from the frantic hubbub of the holiday season amidst the hospitality of a historic inn or home suite, sipping a hot cup of coffee, tea or cocoa over a sumptuous breakfast. As long as the fire stays lit in the fireplace and wi-fi is readily available, a comfy indoor winter retreat is definitely a wonderful option for a glorious winter vacation.
Christkindlmarkt at Dills Tavern
When: Dec. 13-14, 10 AM – 4 PM
Where: Dills Tavern, 227 N. Baltimore St., Dillsburg, PA
Transport yourself to a traditional German Christmas market at Dills Tavern. With over 90 vendors and artisans offering one-of-a-kind gifts, handcrafted items, and festive bites, it’s a haven for holiday shoppers. Across the historic tavern grounds, you’ll find delightful children’s activities, live music, and the comforting aroma of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts.
This event consistently draws thousands of visitors, so plan an early start to avoid the rush and find those special treasures!
More Info: Visit the event page
Cottage or Lodge Camping
Gettysburg is well-known for its many local campgrounds, some of which remain open year-round. But if its too cold for a tent and you don’t have an RV, you can always book a lodge or cottage at one of Gettysburg’s local campgrounds to spend a tranquil weekend in a luxurious cabin with heat, TV, and internet. Winter is the best time for glamping! Plus, camping and rental rates in the off-season months simply can’t be beat.
Gettysburg Tuba Carol Fest
When: Friday, Dec. 13, 7 PM – 7:30 PM
Where: Lincoln Square, Gettysburg
Experience the unique charm of the annual Tuba Carol Fest. Lincoln Square fills with the deep, resonant sounds of tubas playing beloved Christmas carols. Gather around, sip on complimentary hot chocolate, and sing along with the crowd for a half-hour of musical holiday cheer.
Pro tip: Arrive early to secure a prime spot and soak in the festive atmosphere beneath the twinkling holiday lights.
More Info: Gettysburg Tuba Carol Fest
Shopping and Exploring
Gettysburg is home to dozens of unique stores and shops catering to all tastes. With its unique mix of shops, galleries, artisan shops, and antique malls, the Gettysburg area is a shopper’s delight. Sample a cup of coffee, latte, or hot chocolate from an area café or coffee house to energize yourself before embarking on a leisurely day of shopping, with frequent pauses for refreshment at a local pub or eatery in historical Lincoln Square.
The winter months are the ideal time for antiquing, nostalgic browsing among the shelves and counters of vintage markets, finding new-to-you treasures, and envisioning and investing in fresh fix-it-up projects for the new year. Gettysburg offers all that and more! Our local antique dealers and those located in nearby New Oxford are renowned throughout the country.
Visit Santa & Friends at The Outlet Shoppes
When: Saturdays (12 PM – 6 PM) & Sundays (12 PM – 5 PM, Nov. 29 – Dec. 22)
Where: The Outlet Shoppes at Gettysburg, 1863 Gettysburg Village Drive
Bring the little ones to meet Santa Claus in his magical wonderland at The Outlet Shoppes. Every weekend, Santa and his friends—including Frosty, Rudolph, and other holiday favorites—stroll through the shopping center to spread cheer and pose for memorable photos.
Bonus Fun:
Dec. 14-15: Meet Ginger & Nutmeg as they “Spice Up” the season!
Dec. 21-22: Bid farewell to Frosty and Rudolph as they return to the North Pole.
More Info: Visit their website
Hit the Slopes at Liberty Mountain Ski Resort
If winter sports are your thing, you’ll find the very best in winter activities on the slopes at Liberty Mountain Resort. Liberty Mountain provides both beginner and expert routes for skiing and snowboarding, as well as a dedicated snow-tubing facility. You can also try your hand at ice skating at the outdoor rink. And Liberty Mountain also offers the very best in luxury lodge facilities, if indoor relaxation is more your style.
Gettysburg is full of interesting destinations and exciting activities for winter visitors. We look forward to seeing you here!
Gettysburg Civic Chorus Christmas Concert
When: Dec. 14-15, 3 PM – 5 PM
Where: Gettysburg Area Middle School, 37 Lefever St., Gettysburg
Get swept away by the iconic sounds of the season at the Gettysburg Civic Chorus Christmas Concert. With free admission and parking, this event is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy traditional carols and lighthearted holiday tunes performed by the town’s oldest community music group.
More Info: Visit their website
The King’s Singers – Christmas Time is Here
When: Saturday, Dec. 21, 7 PM
Where: Luhrs Performing Arts Center, Shippensburg University
Renowned for their world-class a cappella performances, The King’s Singers will take you on a musical journey through a blend of folk songs, cherished carols, and contemporary choral gems. Set against the backdrop of the stunning Luhrs Performing Arts Center, this concert is an unforgettable celebration of Christmas through music.
More Info & Tickets: Luhrs Performing Arts Center
New Year’s Eve at Hotel Gettysburg
When: Dec. 31, 7 PM – 1 AM
Where: Hotel Gettysburg, 1 Lincoln Square
Ring in 2025 in style at the historic Hotel Gettysburg. Start the evening with an elegant cocktail reception followed by a decadent four-course meal. Dance the night away to live entertainment, toast with champagne at midnight, and enjoy a leisurely morning with pastries and coffee the next day.
More Info: Visit Hotel Gettysburg
New Year’s Eve Celebration at Wyndham Gettysburg
When: Dec. 31, 6:30 PM – 1 AM
Where: Wyndham Gettysburg
If you’re a fan of live music, head to the Wyndham Gettysburg for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve celebration. Featuring a 16-piece band, a buffet dinner, casino night, and a champagne toast at midnight, this event is perfect for groups of friends looking to welcome the New Year with laughter and dancing. Bonus perks include discounted overnight accommodation at the Wyndham Gettysburg.
More Info: Visit their website
Plan Your Holiday Getaway to Gettysburg
From horse-drawn carriage rides to festive concerts and enchanting markets, Gettysburg offers an array of holiday-themed events to make your season merry and bright. Whether you’re visiting for a cozy weekend or ringing in the new year, Gettysburg’s charm and history will leave you with lasting memories.
Tour the Historic Attractions of Gettysburg by Bus!
Our award-winning bus tours of the Gettysburg Battlefield and other notable historic local attractions are still running to help visitors enjoy their visit to beautiful Gettysburg PA. Reservations can be made by calling our toll-free number at 877-680-8687. You can also purchase bus tour tickets online. Tours depart from the Gettysburg Tour Center located at 777 Baltimore St., Suite 100.