Have Yourself a Downtown Little Christmas

Wilkes-Barre is a unique place. On one hand, it ranks among the ten most populous cities in Pennsylvania and has a rich industrial history that helped shape the region. Its downtown is filled with grand architecture, historic landmarks, and reminders of the city's once-booming past.

On the other hand, Wilkes-Barre has a charm that feels distinctly small-town. There's something special about its walkable streets, familiar faces, locally owned cafes, and the little details that make downtown feel like a community.

That combination makes the holidays feel extra special in Wilkes-Barre. There’s a certain nostalgia to it, a familiarity that makes it feel like you are young again and heading to grandma’s for a holiday feast. But at the same time, it still has the energy of a city. There are bustling streets, new things to discover, and enough holiday-themed events to make you dizzy.

Kick off the season with the Wilkes-Barre City Santa Parade on Saturday, November 21^st. The parade follows Main Street from South Street to Public Square where it concludes with the lighting of the central Christmas Tree.

Before the parade, bundle up with a new winter wardrobe at Boscov’s and bring your kids (or your child-like heart) to meet the Grinch from 10 AM – 2 PM. Don’t forget to grab a hot chocolate at one of Wilkes-Barre’s locally owned coffee shops to stay warm through the parade. The tree lighting conveniently ends around dinner time, so why end the night there! Stick around Downtown and dine at one of our many restaurants – whether you’re in the mood for Thai, Middle Eastern, Italian, or a classic pizza, there’s something for every appetite!

Diamond City Partnership’s signature event – the Holiday Market – falls on Small Business Saturday, November 28^th. Check out Downtown’s local merchants for deals and discounts incentivizing you to shop small this holiday season, as well as the Candy Cane Trail – holiday themed treats at our restaurants. Then join us at our market from 11AM – 4 PM at the Bank Downtown 8 W Market St. We’ll have over 30 vendors, live music, pictures with Santa, a Nutcracker Performance, and plenty of holiday cheer!

Even when Downtown is quiet and no events are happening, take a stroll and you'll find decorated storefront windows, twinkling lights wrapped around the trees, wreaths adorning the lampposts, and plenty of little touches that make the season feel special. Whether you're stopping in for a little holiday shopping, meeting friends for dinner, or simply taking the long way around the Square to enjoy the lights, there's something about downtown this time of year that makes you slow down and forget you’re in a busy city.

Consider this your invitation to get out, explore, and make a little holiday magic of your own. We'll see you Downtown