Gettysburg's 150th named top event in U.S.
American Bus Association honors Sesquicentennial Commemoration
(Gettysburg, Pennsylvania) - 10/2/2012
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Carl Whitehill
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Gettysburg Convention & Visitors Bureau
(717) 338-1055
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The American Bus Association, in its survey of group tour operators throughout the country, ranked Gettysburg, Pa.’s 150th Anniversary Commemoration, June 28 to July 7, 2013 as the top event in the United States.
This 10-day commemorative event – Gettysburg 150: Reflections of History – was chosen among hundreds of nominations as the best place to experience by motorcoach in 2013. Annually, the organization chooses the top 100 events, and notes the top in both the United States and Canada.
“This is a great honor,” said Norris Flowers, President of the Gettysburg Convention & Visitors Bureau, the organization that nominated the commemorative event for the survey. “This ranking puts Gettysburg at the forefront of events happening in 2013, and will benefit the community both during and after the commemoration.”
What began as a way for motorcoach operators to incorporate new destinations and events into their itineraries has grown into one of the most sought-after lists by travel professionals, motorcoach operators and the general public, according to ABA. The list highlights the top fairs, festivals, parades, exhibits, theater and shows across the U.S. and Canada.
Gettysburg’s commemoration marks the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg, which occurred July 1-3, 1863 in the middle of the American Civil War. For three days, Union and Confederate troops clashed in the farmland and through the streets of the Pennsylvania town. In the end, there were 51,000 casualties and a community ravaged by war.
In summer 2013, the destination will mark the sesquicentennial anniversary with two re-enactments, living history encampments, an official Gettysburg National Military Park ceremony, a march across Pickett’s Charge and the opening of the Seminary Ridge Museum, among many other programs, tours and lectures during the 10 days that represent the “Reflections of History.”
Gettysburg and Adams County, however, are marking the anniversary throughout 2013, as new programs, events and attractions are expected to bring up to a million additional visitors over the course of the year. Nearby communities that will take part in this commemoration include Cashtown, Fairfield, Hunterstown and Hanover, as well as Union Mills, Md.
“Next year is a big year for Gettysburg,” said Flowers. “The events that will be happening over the course of 2013 will introduce this great destination to many American and foreign travelers – many of whom we expect to return in the future.”
In addition to Gettysburg’s 150th Commemoration, ABA also selected Dedication Day – the Anniversary of the Gettysburg Address – as one of the top 100 events in North America for 2013. The day features a ceremony in the Soldiers’ National Cemetery to mark the 16th President’s famous speech in November 1863. Lincoln’s remarks secured not only his legacy in American history, but Gettysburg as a symbol of hope in the healing of the brutal battle just five months earlier.
In the past, the ABA has honored the Gettysburg Civil War Battle Re-enactment, Dedication Day, and the Gettysburg Festival, among other events in Adams County.
The Gettysburg Convention & Visitors Bureau, the official tourism promotion agency, markets Gettysburg – Adams County as a premier travel destination, producing a positive economic impact.
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