A new holiday tradition was established last night, as about two dozen Christmas Carolers took to the streets of Gettysburg, spreading holiday cheer around town. Their route took them from Lincoln Square to the steps of the Adams County Public Library, Gettysburg Presbyterian Church, The Christmas House, inside the dining rooms of Ploughman Cider Taproom, Ragged Edge Coffee House, and The Sign of the Buck, then on to The Pub on Lincoln Square, and ending with a rousing finale on the steps of the Gettysburg Hotel. On the way, several pedestrians decided to join the cheery carolers.
Organized by Gettysburg residents Katie Engle and Donate Gardner, the group came into being within a very short period of time and nary a few minutes’ practice. An initial call for interest went out on “Gettysburg Alive,” a Facebook community page for the town and surroundings. Page owners, Patti Robinson and Dave Pelland, made sure the word was spread widely, resulting in a sizeable group of eager carolers.
Special thanks go to local businesses who offered their support: Ghost City Tours who provided a warm gathering point for practice; Sign of the Buck inviting the group inside their dining room, and Ploughman Cider Taproom for providing a round of hot cider to the chilled singers.
Intent on continuing this tradition, organizers are already making a list of future carolers and checking it twice. Anyone interested in joining the group next year, may contact Katie Engle, Waldkind Sieben or Donna Good on Facebook, or may send an email to: dvbgardner@gmail.com.
Photos by Jim Bargas
Featured image: Aaron Zipp and Katie Engle leading the finale on the steps of the Gettysburg Hotel
Donate Gardner is a freelance writer and journalist who came to Gettysburg in 2021 from Montgomery County, Maryland. A former linguist-turned-legal professional, Donate recently retired from the corporate world and is eager to support her new community in a variety of ways.
She currently serves as the news communicator for the Adams County migrant outreach program, Pasa La Voz.
As an immigrant born, raised, and educated in Germany, Donate still maintains a strong connection to other languages, both as a writer and translator. Donate is an active musician, multi-instrumentalist and songwriter. She and her husband have two daughters and three grandchildren.
Jim Bargas is a freelance photographer.
Good job Gettysburg! Another wonderful tradition for our fair city. Bringing the community together and showcasing some of the great spots to visit and enjoy. Happy Christmas to all, and an abundant and peaceful New Year for everyone.