2025 News

The Gettysburg Foundation is thrilled to announce a vibrant lineup of educational events this summer at Children of Gettysburg 1863^®. Designed for families and youth, these hands-on programs run throughout July and August 2025, aiming to spark curiosity and promote learning during the summer break. Some events are free to attend, while others are included in the museum admission.

Civil War Ceramic Paint & Take offers young visitors the chance to paint one of four unique ceramic figures sculpted by renowned local artist Gary Casteel. Each figure connects to the American Civil War, offering children a creative way to engage with history and take home a personalized souvenir. This activity runs on Wednesdays through Aug. 20 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with tickets required and supplies available while they last.

Historical Moments on the Homefront invites youth to explore traditional Civil War-era crafts led by local historians and artists from Danza Aniqua. Participants will learn about and create historical art forms such as weaving, bead work, bobbin lace, and hand knitting. These sessions are available on select Thursdays through Aug. 7, with morning (10 a.m. to Noon) and afternoon (1 to 5 p.m.) time slots included in museum admission. 

Living History Encampments bring the past to life in the museum’s side yard. Visitors can meet living historians portraying soldiers, surgeons and civilians of the era during free public events on select summer dates. These encampments feature military drills, medical demonstrations and evening Lantern Talks, offering a vivid glimpse into life during the Civil War.

Summer 2025 Living History Schedule:

Tuesday-Thursday, July 1-3 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Officers for the Union & Ladies for the Union
Battle Anniversary Encampment

Saturday, July 5 | 1-6 p.m.
Sunday, July 6 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
62^nd PA Volunteer Infantry Encampment

Saturday, July 19 | 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Gettysburg Independent Blues
Encampment with Military Drills throughout the day

Saturday-Sunday, Aug. 2-3 | 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Confederation of Union Generals Encampment

Saturday-Sunday, Aug. 9-10 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Saturday, Aug. 9 | 8 p.m. | Lantern Talk
Officers for the Union & Ladies for the Union Encampment

Friday-Saturday, Aug. 15-16 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Patriot Daughter’s of Lancaster Encampment

Saturday-Sunday, Sept. 6-7 | 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Society of Civil War Surgeons 11^th Corps (Union) and Florida Brigade (Confederate) Medical Encampment and Stations with "Smells of the Hospital" Exhibit & "Touch Table"

“The summer programs at Children of Gettysburg 1863 provide a unique opportunity for young people and families to connect with our nation’s history in an interactive, meaningful way,” said Jackie Spainhour, President and CEO of the Gettysburg Foundation. “By engaging children with hands-on activities and living history, we hope to inspire the next generation of historians and leaders to appreciate Gettysburg’s enduring legacy.”

The Gettysburg Foundation’s summer offerings emphasize history, leadership and civic responsibility, ensuring that the lessons of Gettysburg remain relevant for years to come. Visitors are encouraged to explore the full schedule of events and secure tickets online at GettysburgFoundation.org.