The Gettysburg Area Recreational Authority (GARA) has announced a packed schedule of community events this spring and summer, including sports programs, festivals, volunteer efforts, and family-friendly activities.
Spring Kicks Off with Community Engagement
This month, GARA welcomes back several recurring programs. The GYSC Club Soccer begins its practice sessions at the rec park, utilizing both the north end acreage and the football field. The World Classrooms program will also bring over 100 visiting students from the Midwest to use the park’s pavilions and assembly hall as part of their studies in history, including trips to Washington, D.C., and Gettysburg. Meanwhile, the Girl Scouts continue to hold weekly meetings in the Sterner building on Thursdays.
As the community gears up for summer, several key programs aim to benefit the public. A Baseball Umpires Certification Clinic will take place March 22-23, addressing a regional shortage of certified umpires. This hands-on program will include exhibition games for practical experience. GARA will also host a Military Share program on March 25 to assist military families with groceries and essential items. Later that week, on March 28, a Community Meal sponsored by the Church of the Brethren will be served to those in need.
The annual Green Gathering Volunteer Program is scheduled for April 12, led by professional landscaper Steve Zimmerman and community leader Matt Crowner. Volunteers will plant trees, spread mulch, and participate in general park cleanup. The following day, April 13, GARA will host the United Way Breakfast, welcoming community leaders and supporters.
Summer Music Fest to Debut Memorial Day Weekend
One of the most anticipated additions to the schedule is the first-ever Memorial Day Weekend SummerFest on Saturday, May 24. The day-long event will feature live music beginning at 11 a.m. at the Adams County Farmers Market, followed by performances at the Rec Park bandstand starting at 1:30 p.m. The festival, produced by Audio and Visual Entertainment, will include food, alcohol, and merchandise vendors. Admission and parking is free, with donations benefiting GARA’s live music arts program.
“This is an exciting way to kick off the summer,” said GARA CEO Al Moyer, who hopes the event will become an annual tradition.
GARA is also preparing for its annual Fourth of July celebration, featuring a mix of food trucks, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities leading up to the evening fireworks display. The park is currently recruiting vendors and sponsors for the event.
Additional programs and activities will take place throughout the summer:
- The Adams County Farmers Market will run every Saturday, beginning April 26 through October, open from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- The GYSC Soccer Camp will be held on the South end of the campus.
- Rise Yoga Sessions will begin Saturday, May 3, near the amphitheater.
- The Healthy Kids Running Program starts April 27, offering five consecutive Saturday events.
- The Adams County Library FUNFEST will take place on Friday, June 13.
- GARA will host six “Collaborating For Youth” Summer Camps, starting June 9, with a focus on academics and recreation.
For more information, to volunteer, or to sponsor an event, contact Moyer at director@gettysburgrecpark.com