by Gettysburg, Pennsylvania — Halloween brings a spooky atmosphere to this historic town, where ghost stories, Civil War history and seasonal celebrations create plenty of options for an October outing. From costume parades and children’s activities to nighttime paranormal investigations, Gettysburg offers a variety of ways to enjoy the Halloween season.
With Halloween falling on Saturday, October 31, 2026, families, history enthusiasts and visitors looking for a thrilling evening can explore events throughout Gettysburg and nearby Adams County. Some popular activities take place earlier in October, so checking event dates before making plans is important.
1. Gettysburg Halloween Parade and Costume Celebration
The Gettysburg Halloween Parade is one of the town’s signature seasonal celebrations, bringing costumes, music and community spirit to downtown streets. The 2026 event took place on October 20, with activities beginning at 5 p.m. around Lincoln Square.
The evening included a dance party, costume contest registration at 5:30 p.m., a costume contest at 6 p.m. and the parade at 7:15 p.m. Families who missed this year’s celebration can watch for announcements about next year’s event.
2. Halloween Express Train Ride at Gettysburg Railway
Families looking for a different Halloween experience can consider the Halloween Express at Gettysburg Railway. The seasonal attraction features a 60-minute train ride with spooky music, festive decorations, costumed hosts, Halloween trivia and trick-or-treat bags for children.
The 2026 Halloween Express departure is scheduled for Saturday, October 31, at 3 p.m. The train departs from 106 N. Washington Street in Gettysburg. Listed ticket prices are $36.99 for adults ages 13 and older and $33.99 for children ages 2–12.
Costumes are encouraged, and children must be accompanied by an adult. Visitors should confirm ticket availability before planning their trip.
3. Haunted Halloween Concert
Music lovers can celebrate Halloween with a seasonal concert at the United Lutheran Seminary Chapel. The Haunted Halloween Concert is scheduled for Friday, October 30, from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
The program features internationally acclaimed organist Peggy Haas Howell, dramatic storytelling, classical music, film favorites and performances involving local singers. One of the featured works is The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, which brings Washington Irving’s famous ghost story to life through organ music and narration.
Admission is listed as free, with donations accepted. The concert offers an alternative for visitors who prefer music and storytelling over traditional haunted attractions.
4. Gettysburg Ghost Tours
Gettysburg’s historic streets provide a distinctive setting for nighttime ghost tours. Local tour operators combine stories about the Civil War era with accounts of reported hauntings, historic buildings and legends associated with the town.
Visitors can choose guided walking tours or more specialized paranormal experiences, depending on their interests. Some tours focus on historical storytelling, while others offer opportunities to learn about ghost-hunting equipment and investigative techniques.
Anyone planning an evening tour should check the schedule, age requirements and meeting location in advance. Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing can also make the experience more enjoyable.
5. Fright Night Paranormal Investigation
For visitors who want something more immersive than a traditional ghost walk, paranormal investigations provide another option around Halloween.
Fright Night Paranormal Investigation offers a guided experience involving multiple reportedly haunted locations in Gettysburg. The experience is designed for people interested in paranormal investigation methods, historic settings and the stories connected to the area’s past.
The listed price is $70 per person, with sessions scheduled at 8:30 p.m. on selected dates. The exact meeting location is provided when scheduling. Advance reservations are recommended, and visitors should review the age requirements and other participation details before booking.
6. Halloween Glow Bash at The Barn Resort
The Barn Resort is hosting a Halloween Glow Bash on Saturday, October 31, from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. The event offers an evening of music, glowing decorations and Halloween-themed entertainment.
Located at 75 Cunningham Road in Gettysburg, the resort provides an option for visitors who want to celebrate Halloween after daytime family activities have ended. Admission is listed at $10.
Guests should confirm the latest event arrangements before attending and check whether any age restrictions or additional requirements apply.
7. Hollabaugh’s Halloween Fest
Families willing to travel a short distance outside Gettysburg can consider Hollabaugh’s Halloween Fest in nearby Biglerville.
The seasonal farm event is scheduled for October 31 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Hollabaugh Bros., 545 Carlisle Road. Visitors are invited to wear costumes and explore Halloween activity stations while enjoying the farm-market atmosphere.
The event offers a daytime option for families who want to combine Halloween fun with a visit to the surrounding apple-growing region.
8. Farmers Market Halloween Spooktacular
The Adams County Farmers Market is bringing a Halloween theme to its seasonal market at Gettysburg Recreation Park on October 31. The Farmers Market Halloween Spooktacular is scheduled from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 545 Long Lane.
Visitors can enjoy the seasonal market atmosphere while exploring local produce, baked goods, artisan crafts and Halloween-themed activities. The event is suitable for families looking for a relaxed morning outing before afternoon and evening celebrations.
What to Know Before Planning Halloween in Gettysburg
Halloween falls on Saturday, October 31, 2026, giving visitors an opportunity to combine daytime activities with evening entertainment.
- For families with children: Consider the Halloween Express, farmers market activities and Hollabaugh’s Halloween Fest.
- For music fans: The Haunted Halloween Concert takes place on October 30.
- For ghost-story enthusiasts: Explore guided ghost tours or specialized paranormal investigations.
- For an evening celebration: The Halloween Glow Bash offers a late-day option on October 31.
- For visitors travelling from outside town: Check parking arrangements, ticket availability and event schedules before leaving home.
Gettysburg offers a Halloween season shaped by historic legends, family traditions and community celebrations. Whether visitors prefer a costume-filled train ride, an atmospheric ghost tour or a festive evening event, the town and surrounding Adams County provide several ways to enjoy the final days of October.
Which Halloween activity would you choose in Gettysburg this year: a ghost tour, a family train ride or a nighttime celebration? Share your plans and favorite Halloween traditions.
