The Beauty of Adams County

​The Beauty of Adams County

When I think of October I think about the leaves on the trees changing colors, the crisp smell of the morning air, fall festivals, apples and pumpkins. Adams County certainly doesn’t disappoint when it comes to all of those things. The first two weekends of October host the National Apple Harvest Festival held at the South Mountain Fairgrounds above Arendtsville. There you’ll find a diverse gathering of vendors selling the latest gift ideas, hand-crafted items and homemade foods. Every Saturday in October you can also visit the Adams County Farmers Market located on Carlisle St. at the Gettysburg Transit Center. You will be sure to find an abundance of fresh, homegrown produce and can shop knowing that you’ve supported the local farming community of Adams County.

October has also become a busy wedding month for the Gettysburg area. Traditionally, May and June were the most popular months for weddings. However, with the beauty of the natural backdrop the fall provides, October has been increasingly popular with brides. Gettysburg itself has become known as a “Destination Wedding” location. Couples from all over choose to wed in Gettysburg, whether it’s because of the beauty of the area or because it’s a central location to all parties. Barn weddings have been the trend for the last few years. It’s quaint to get married in an old, rustic barn with all of the creaks of the wood and ambiance of the setting. Barn venues such as Battlefield Bed & Breakfast, Beech Springs Farm, Rock Creek Farm, Wilson’s Bittersweet Barn and The Barn at Herr Ridge are just some of the places to choose from. If you’re not interested in a barn, but would rather have an outside tent wedding, contact Gettysburg Rental Center. For almost 40 years they have catered to the needs of brides on their special day.

Fall is a great time to get out of the house and walk the town and see it for all its beauty. There are plenty of walking tours available that will get you plenty of exercise. The United Lutheran Seminary offers a “Sunset at The Seminary” walking tour that meets at the Seminary Ridge Museum. The tour examines an aspect of the fighting before, during and after the battle with a special focus on the people who lived and fought here. There is no charge, however donations are appreciated. As you’re walking down Steinwehr Ave., you can enjoy a free guided tour of the Dobbin House and learn how the occupants lived during the 18th and 19th centuries. Further down Steinwehr Ave. stop at the Gettysburg Heritage Center for “Night at the Museum, 1863”. You will hear first person accounts of the battle and stories of how those who struggled and survived were able to rebuild and carry on. Other walks about town include the Historic Downtown Food Tour where you can eat your way through Gettysburg and the Grape Escape Walking Wine Tour where you can discover the local food and wine scene.

This month wouldn’t be complete without something said about Halloween and the Annual Gettysburg Halloween Parade held October 22 (rain date is the 23rd) graciously sponsored by the Gettysburg Eagles, F.O.E. 1562. Gather along the parade route to see the hard work that everyone has put into their floats and routines to make this parade one of Gettysburg’s best. As the month comes to a close don’t miss out on a great production of The Rocky Horror Show Live, put on by the Gettysburg Community Theatre. This is the 5th annual production of the 1975 pop art rock opera. As the show says, “Don’t Dream It, Be It”. Costumes and audience participation are encouraged. Be a part of a live, spectacular show.

For more information on events around the area you can visit GARMA’s website at www.gettysburgretailmerchants.com. Remember, breathe in and breathe out and take in the beauty that is Gettysburg, Adams County.

​Jennie Dillon is the Vice President of GARMA, the owner of Artworks on 30 York St., and the Office and Events Manager at Gettysburg Rental Center.

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