Event and Logistics Information for Battle Anniversary Events at Gettysburg National Military Park

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News Release Date: June 23, 2017
Contact: Katie Lawhon, 717-253-5776
Contact: Sgt. Anna Rose, 202-556-9181

Gettysburg – Gettysburg National Military Park is commemorating the three-day Battle of Gettysburg anniversary on July 1, 2, and 3, with a series of free hikes, walks and talks that discuss, explore, and reflect on this important turning point in the American Civil War. The public is invited to join Park Rangers and Licensed Battlefield Guides during these programs that mark the 154th battle anniversary in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Programs take place throughout the battlefield, in the Soldiers’ National Cemetery, and at the Museum and Visitor Center.
 
Numerous programs are offered throughout the day and include something for visitors of all ages. Learn about the men who enlisted and why; explore folklore surrounding McPherson’s Ridge and Seminary Ridge; find out why Union and Confederate leaders made the decisions they did; look at Pickett’s Charge through the eyes of African American history; gain a better understanding of how 27,000 wounded soldiers were cared for; visit the family activities and hands-on history station at the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center; and learn unique perspectives on the battle from Park Rangers at an hour-long campfire presentation in the evening. Details and times are available here.
 
“Even after 154 years, the Battle of Gettysburg remains one of the pivotal events in American history. Being on the battlefield over the three –day anniversary is a profoundly moving experience,” said Bill Justice, acting park superintendent. “The National Park Service is honored and proud to be able to share this amazing place and this uniquely American story with our visitors.”
 
Traffic
Traffic is expected to be heavy throughout the park and especially along Taneytown Road throughout the weekend. Drivers and pedestrians are asked to be mindful of each other at crosswalks.  
 
Parking & Transportation
Parking signs will guide visitors to open parking areas. “Gold Line” shuttle busses from the visitor center run regularly to transport visitors to nearby sites. During peak demand, visitors may be directed to park at the Outlet Shoppes at Gettysburg and board a free shuttle bus to the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center.
 
Prohibited Items and Activities
Click here for specific details.
                         

• Grills are allowed in the picnic areas only.
• Alcohol is prohibited.
• Launching, landing or operating unmanned or remote controlled aircraft on National Park Serviced property is strictly prohibited.
• It is strongly recommend that pets be left at home.
• Visitors may possess and carry firearms within Gettysburg National Military Park in accordance with federal, state, and local laws. Federal law prohibits firearms in certain park facilities and buildings. These places are marked with signs at public entrances. All visitors should be aware of and follow applicable firearms laws of the State of Pennsylvania.
• No firearms or pets are permitted in the Museum and Visitor Center.
• The Soldiers’ National Cemetery has special restrictions: no pets and no bikes.

 
First Amendment Activities
The National Park Service has granted special use permits for first amendment activities on July 1. Three of these events will take place north of Meade’s Headquarters along the west side of Taneytown Road between 10 am and 6 pm. A fourth group will be conducting a commemorative march along West Confederate Avenue on from 10 am to 1 pm.
 
“As custodians of land owned by the American people, the National Park Service has a responsibility to make that land available for exercising those rights,” Justice said. “As with any first amendment activities, Gettysburg National Military Park’s objectives are to provide for public safety, minimize impacts on historic resources of this park, and afford visitors an enjoyable experience.
 
Gettysburg National Military Park preserves, protects and interprets for this and future generations the resources associated with the 1863 Battle of Gettysburg, during the American Civil War, the Soldiers' National Cemetery, and their commemorations. Learn more at www.nps.gov/gett.

-NPS-

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