Festive Events Light Up Wilkes-Barre/Hanover Area This December

The Wilkes-Barre/Hanover area is bustling with festive events this December, offering a variety of activities for families and community members. From food sales to holiday celebrations, residents can look forward to several gatherings that highlight the spirit of the season.

Annual Holiday Festivities Scheduled

Starting with the annual John the Baptist roll sale, orders are being accepted now for limited availability. The sale, organized by the St. John the Baptist Byzantine Catholic Church, will take place on Wednesday, December 3, from 09:00 to 17:00 at the church located at 756 E. Northampton St., Wilkes-Barre Twp. The rolls, available in nut, poppy, apricot, or prune flavors, are priced at $14 each. Those interested in ordering can contact Bob at 570-954-1171.

The Wilkes-Barre Twp. Christmas tree lighting is set for 6 p.m. on Friday, December 5. Mayor Carl Kuren has announced that young residents Brayden and Hendrix Pientka will have the honor of lighting the municipal tree. The event promises refreshments and a chance to meet Santa Claus, who will arrive by sleigh.

Additional festivities include Christmas caroling scheduled for 4 p.m. on Thursday, December 4, featuring traditional religious carols on the Luzerne County Courthouse lawn. Participants can enjoy musical accompaniment by candlelight, and all are welcome to join. For more details, contact Nancy at 570-239-3363.

Community Gatherings and Activities

On the same day as the caroling, St. Mary’s Antiochian Orthodox Church will host a pasta dinner from 4 to 6 p.m. at 905 S. Main St., Wilkes-Barre. The meal, priced at $13, includes an entrée, bread, salad, beverage, and dessert, providing a hearty option for families.

The Annual Alternative Christmas Craft Fair will take place on Saturday, December 6, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church of Wilkes-Barre, located at 97 S. Franklin St. This event, hosted by the church’s Christian Education Committee, will feature hands-on activities, including wreath and mug decorating, along with handmade goods from local artisans and fair-trade items from around the world. Entry is free and open to the public. For inquiries, contact Pam at 570-824-2478.

The Hudson Model Railroad Club will hold an open house on weekends starting December 6, allowing visitors to explore model train displays. The open house will be available from noon to 4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays through January 11, 2026. More information can be found on their website, hudsonmodelrailroadclub.org.

On Sunday, December 7, the Hanover Twp. tree-lighting ceremony will occur from 2 to 5 p.m. at 693 Carey Ave., Hanover Twp. This event includes a collection of new, unwrapped toys for the U.S. Marines Toys For Tots campaign, along with a petting zoo and Santa’s visit from 3:30 to 5 p.m.

For families with young children, the Twin Boro Lions Club is hosting a children’s Christmas party on Saturday, December 13, at 1 p.m. at the Warrior Run Fire Hall. Children aged 10 and younger who reside in Sugar Notch or Warrior Run must pre-register by contacting Lion Steve Brezna at 570-829-0153 or visiting local businesses.

Lastly, residents can purchase the Wilkes-Barre Twp. 250th Commemoration Book for $25 at the Wilkes-Barre Twp. Municipal Building. Checks or money orders should be made payable to Wilkes-Barre Twp.

These events showcase the vibrant community spirit in the Wilkes-Barre/Hanover area, providing numerous opportunities for residents to come together during this festive season.