Gettysburg, PA (Top40 Charts/ Gettysburg Festival) Nestled between Memorial Day and the Fourth of July, Gettysburg Festival, June 10-19, offers more than 75 events celebrating American arts, culture and cuisine. More than half of the events are free. "Gettysburg is perhaps the most famous small town in America-what better place than this iconic civil war-era town to celebrate American art forms," said Festival Executive Director Alice Estrada. "From culinary events designed by a former White House Chef, to an American comedy legend, traditional brass bands and historical figures-including George Washington-the 2011 lineup is a star-spangled celebration." Gettysburg Festival's top ten events for 2011: - Stylish, a cappella group Straight No Chaser (June 10) opens the Festival with an outdoor concert under the stars. Gettysburg Festival's Tavern on the Green offers a pre-concert party.
- Comedy legend Bob Newhart (June 18) brings his trademark deadpan comedy, along with fresh material, and a swingin' jazz band.
- The free All-American Brass Picnic (June 18) features six acclaimed mid-Atlantic brass bands including the U.S. Marine Corps Band of Quantico, Virginia.
- Cajun-Creole Cookout and Mardi Gras Music (June 11) offers a Louisiana-flavored menu enhanced by zydeco performances (standalone concert is free).
- Blues, Beer & BBQ (June 19, Father's Day) returns by popular demand for its third year, merging barbeque, beer and accompanying blues music (standalone concert is free).
- The Presidents of Mount Rushmore (June 17) come to life in this historical theater presentation, with an optional pre-show White House Dinner.
- History Meets the Arts (June 16-18), "the largest gathering of historical artists in the country," features gallery exhibits, demonstrations, and an Edible Art Tour.
- Curious George visits the free Children's Arts Fair (June 17) offering 15 magical children's activities, from storytelling to art projects, plus live entertainment.
- The farm-to-table, family-style Old-Fashioned Sunday Supper (June 12) includes bluegrass music and an heirloom quilt display.
- Celebrating American Craft and Artistry: Sheila Isham and Boehm Porcelain Exhibition (June 10-19) features American eagle imagery. Free admission.
For more information: www.gettysburgfestival.org, 717-334-0853. The companion Gettysburg Fringe Festival offers community-oriented events, www.gettysburgfestival.org/fringe Gettysburg Festival's mission is to celebrate American arts, culture and cuisine against the historic backdrop of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. This tourism initiative provides access to the arts, to inspire, entertain and educate the public.
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