Your Guide to Autumn in Gettysburg, PA

Fall Comes to Gettysburg

As the summer heat gives way to the crisp fall air, Gettysburg transforms from a hot summer vacation to a picturesque autumn escape. This historic town, known for its pivotal role in the Civil War, takes on a new charm during the fall season. From vibrant foliage to festive events, autumn in Gettysburg offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and community spirit. If you are looking for the perfect fall vacation, here’s your guide to Autumn in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.

Gettysburg Harvests

The beautiful state of Pennsylvania is blessed with fertile soil and hard-working farmers who know how to work the land. This combination has led to the bountiful harvests year after year. Adams County is no exception. There are many ways you can enjoy the bounty of the land, including shopping at local farmers' markets and dining at local restaurants. However, if you are looking for a more exciting event, you can attend one of these harvest festivals. 

Gettysburg Wine Festival

Raise a glass for the Adams County Winery Harvest Festival. Located just outside Gettysburg, this event features live music, wine tastings, and local food vendors. Enjoy the buzzing atmosphere as you sip on award-winning wines and spirits from local wineries and distilleries. Then take in the breathtaking views of Pennsylvania in full autumn splendor. Whether you are an experienced sommelier or are beginning to develop your palette, the festival is a perfect way to relax and enjoy the finest flavors of the season.

National Apple Harvest Festival

Just a short drive from Gettysburg, the National Apple Harvest Festival in Arendtsville has been a local fall-time favorite for decades. Held over two weekends in October, this festival is a delightful experience for all ages. Enjoy live music, craft vendors, and all the apple-themed treats you can eat including apple cider, pies, and caramel apples. The scenic setting among the rolling hills adds to the festival's charm.

Gettysburg Halloween

There is no shortage of things to fright and delight Gettysburg guests. Due to its pivotal role in the Civil War, Gettysburg is often considered one of the most haunted places in America. That makes it the perfect place to spend Halloween! The loss of life on the battlefield isn’t something to celebrate, but the fighting spirits of those who linger can still be felt. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, here are a couple of ways you can enjoy Halloween in Gettysburg.

Ghost Tours

October is the perfect time to explore Gettysburg's haunted past. The Gettysburg Ghost Tours offer a spine-tingling experience as you walk through the town's most haunted locations. Learn about the eerie stories of the Civil War soldiers who are said to still roam the battlefields and historic buildings. The tours are a thrilling way to experience the darker side of Gettysburg's history.

Halloween Parade

Are you looking for spooky fun with a creative flair? Check out the Halloween Parade! Held in late October, the parade features a delightful mix of floats, marching bands, and costumed participants, all making their way through the historic streets of downtown Gettysburg. From adorable children dressed as their favorite characters to ghostly figures that harken back to Gettysburg's haunted past, the parade offers a festive, family-friendly atmosphere that captures the essence of the season. 

Gettysburg Thanksgiving

Did you know that Thanksgiving actually started in Gettysburg? It’s true! After the tragic deaths of tens of thousands of soldiers during the Battle of Gettysburg, Abraham Lincoln delivered one of the most famous speeches of all time, The Gettysburg Address. Shortly after this, he gave another speech that would change American Culture forever; the proclamation of a Thanksgiving Holiday. To this day, November remains an important month in Gettysburg. Here are a few events worth attending.

Battlefield Illumination

As autumn winds down, don't miss the Annual Gettysburg Battlefield Illumination. Held in late November, this solemn event honors the fallen soldiers of the Battle of Gettysburg. Thousands of luminaries are placed on the battlefield, creating a hauntingly beautiful scene. It's a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during the Civil War and a fitting way to conclude the fall season.

Tree Lighting Ceremony

Not everything in Gettysburg is somber in November. If you’re looking for a merry way to end the month, the tree lighting ceremony at Lincoln Square in Gettysburg is the event for you. The tree lighting ceremony is a cherished annual tradition that draws locals and visitors alike to the center of this historic city. Hundreds of people gather around to watch as the towering Christmas tree is illuminated in a dazzling display of lights. The ceremony often features festive music, carolers, and hot cocoa, creating a warm and joyful atmosphere to bring in the holiday season.

Stay at the Keystone Inn

Plan the perfect Gettysburg vacation with us at the Keystone Inn. Our charming inn offers beautiful rooms in the heart of historic Gettysburg! Our centralized location is ideal for attending all the fun autumn festivals and spooky ghost tours and then coming back to relax in your ghost-free room. 

As proud members of our community, we partner with local businesses to show our guests all the best of Gettysburg. With delicious farm-to-table breakfasts to special packages for memorable stays, Keystone Inn Bed and Breakfast is Gettysburg’s most welcoming inn. Make sure to check availability in advance, then come enjoy a beautiful autumn escape!