All aboard for a history lesson families won’t soon forget! For the first time in generations, the sound of a steam locomotive will once again announce the arrival of Abraham Lincoln in Gettysburg.
On Wednesday, November 18, 2026, a historic steam locomotive and passenger train operated by Northern Central Railway of York will roll into Gettysburg as part of Lincoln at Gettysburg: Shall Not Perish, a special America250PA-Adams County commemoration.
The train is scheduled to arrive at the Gettysburg Lincoln Train Station around 3 PM, carrying approximately 200 invited passengers. And then comes the really exciting part: award-winning actor Billy Campbell, portraying Abraham Lincoln, will step off the train and make his way through downtown Gettysburg toward the historic David Wills House at Lincoln Square.
It’s a moment designed to bring history to life — and one families can experience together.
Step Back Into November 1863
President Lincoln originally arrived in Gettysburg by rail on the evening of November 18, 1863, ahead of the dedication of the Soldiers’ National Cemetery the following day.
On November 19, he delivered the 272 words that would become one of the most famous speeches in American history: the Gettysburg Address.
More than 160 years later, visitors will have the opportunity to experience a re-creation of that historic journey.
Following Lincoln’s arrival, visitors can continue into downtown Gettysburg for an evening of programming at the David Wills House and Lincoln Square, including music, historical interpretation, a welcome ceremony, and The Gettysburg Address Considered, which will explore Lincoln’s famous words and their meaning then, now, and into the future.
The evening will wrap up with cascading Taps around Lincoln Square and additional historical programming.
But it doesn't stop there!
The celebration continues on Thursday, November 19, with a historic procession from the David Wills House to Soldiers’ National Cemetery, followed by a re-creation of the 1863 Dedication Ceremony and the delivery of the Gettysburg Address.
The procession begins at 10 AM, with the ceremony at the cemetery scheduled for 12–2 PM.
Tickets are required for the November 19 procession and cemetery ceremony.
How Much Does It Cost?
The good news for families: The main Lincoln at Gettysburg programming is FREE!
However, free doesn't always mean you can simply show up. Tickets are required for the designated event area on November 18, including the evening programs around Lincoln Square.
Families can reserve their FREE Tickets for Lincoln at Gettysburg online through the official Lincoln at Gettysburg ticketing page.
Be sure to check the official schedule before heading to Gettysburg, as ticket requirements vary by program. The November 19 Dedication Day procession and cemetery ceremony do not require tickets.
For kids who love history — or families looking for a memorable way to experience Gettysburg — this is a pretty incredible opportunity. Instead of simply reading about Lincoln's arrival in a textbook, you'll be able to hear the train whistle, see Lincoln step off the train, and watch history unfold right before you.
Event Details At A Glance:
📅 November 18–19, 2026
📍 Downtown Gettysburg & Gettysburg National Cemetery
💰 FREE; tickets required for select November 18 programming
