The Gettysburg National Military Park is hosting the Battle of Gettysburg's 150th anniversary activities from now until July 7.

The Civil War defining battle's historic location attracted an estimated up to 10,000 viewers for its opening event according to the Nation Park Service.

The ceremony named "Gettsburg: A New Birth of Freedom" was held at Meade's Headquarters, and was celebrated with author Doris Kearns Goodwin and country star Trace Adkins.

The 7:30pm celebration on Sunday night ended at 10:30pm with a candle-light march to the Soldier's National Cemetery. The whole event recommence daily until Saturday July 7.

Visitors to the National Military Park can enjoy ranger-guided hikes and tours, artillery demonstrations and the 150th Junior Ranger challenge.

Sightseers listen to the stories of the brave soldiers who fought as a part of the Battle of Gettysburg.

Up to 1300 artifacts were in display in the visitors' center in the Gettysburg National Military Park. The collection includes cannons, calvary sabers, and a statue of Abraham Lincoln.

Many Gettysburg citizens, according to reports, were willing to stay behind to fight instead of running away from the violence. Many women became nurses due to the necessity.

Union and Confederate military were killed in the great battle with up to 10,000 deaths between July 1-3, 1863. Another 30,000 soldiers were wounded in the bloodiest battle fought on American land.