National Park Service programs for the 156th Anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg

(7/1) Gettysburg National Military Park will commemorate the 156th Anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg with Park Ranger and Licensed Battlefield Guide programs throughout the three-day battle anniversary from July 1-3. These programs include Real Time programs that provide a brief overview of key battlefield moments, in-depth Battle Walks that explore specific phases of the battle over a 2 to 3 hour hike, and special evening programs as well. Additionally, children of all ages are encouraged to attend one of the many family activities during the anniversary.

"The anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg is a special time for our staff and our visitors. We’re able to explore the stories surrounding the soldiers who fought over this hallowed ground during the same dates and times as the actual battle," said Acting Superintendent Kristina Heister. "It’s a privilege to make these connections with the public."

There will also be special Living History programs on Saturday, June 29 with the Liberty Rifles living history group. They will be on-hand at the John Slyder farm, portraying the 15th Alabama infantry regiment, for a Real Time program at 9 a.m. and they will participate in an immersive Battle Walk at 2:30 p.m..

Please note that this special July 1-3 Battle Anniversary program schedule replaces the regularly scheduled summer program schedule from July 1-3. All regularly scheduled summer programs resume on July 4. The schedule is subject to change and is weather dependent. Water, headgear, sun protection, insect repellent, and sturdy footwear are highly recommended. All programs are free of charge.

The full July 1-3 Battle Anniversary schedule can be found on our website at:

www.nps.gov/gett.

Gettysburg National Military Park is a unit of the National Park Service that preserves and protects the resources associated with the Battle of Gettysburg and the Soldiers’ National Cemetery, and provides an understanding of the events that occurred there within the context of American history. For a complete listing of all of the free summer ranger programs, please visit www.nps.gov/gett, or pick up the Today in the Park planning guide available at the information desk inside the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center, 1195 Baltimore Pike, Gettysburg.