Picture This: 2025 Wilkes-Barre Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting

The city of Wilkes-Barre was full of holiday spirit as its annual Christmas parade filled the streets with festive cheer. From decorated floats to ice skating and lively marching bands, the celebration brought the season to life downtown.

The parade stepped off on South Main Street and made its way to Union Street, looping around Public Square. Local businesses, schools and community groups joined in along the route, while families lined the sidewalks, waiting for Santa’s arrival at the end of the procession.

Immediately following the parade, the city kept the momentum going with its annual tree lighting ceremony on Public Square. Food vendors served snacks and hot chocolate while the skating rink gave kids and families a chance to take a quick spin the ice.

At the center of it all stood this year’s tree — a 31-foot blue spruce donated by Holy Trinity Orthodox Church in Wilkes-Barre. After a short countdown, the tree lit up over the square, marking the start of the holiday season in downtown Wilkes-Barre.

Take a look at this year’s merry moments for a glimpse of the holiday magic downtown.