Experience The Magic of the Season in NEPA
From live theater performances to train rides and breakfast with Santa, hometown parades and tree lightings, to holiday markets and drive-through lights displays. NEPA knows how to welcome this festive season.
We’ve begun to prepare our towns with glistening string lights and joyful window décor. Santa’s already made a stop and we can expect he’ll hang around through the big night. In the meantime, gather your friends and family and check off your holiday bucket list with these jolly holiday traditions.
November 30
Wilkes-Barre, PA
The story of Santa’s favorite reindeer is coming to the F.M. Kirby Center. We can’t think of a better way to get in the holiday spirit than this up-beat adaptation of one of most memorable holiday characters ever.
Select dates December 1-17
Swoyersville, PA
The heartwarming story of this beloved elf is coming to the Music Box Dinner Playhouse this holiday season. Join Buddy on his journey from the North Pole to the Big Apple as he attempts to find his true identity. This musical is sure to bring a cheerful smile to everyone’s face.
Weekends December 1-17
Jim Thorpe, PA
Step straight into a classic Hallmark Christmas town during this Victorial-style holiday festival in downtown Jim Thorpe. The streets are aglow, the trees are trimmed, and twinkling lights glisten everywhere. Trains rides, strolling carolers, and horse and carriage rides truly make for a magical experience. Of course, there’re lots of shops to visit and cozy restaurants to dine in as well.
December 2
Pittston, PA
Join in one of the most beloved holiday traditions in Pittston. Every year, parade participants deck out their cars in the most extravagant decorations and gather to witness the lighting of downtown Pittston’s tree. We can’t think of a better way to kick off the holiday season.
December 3
Montrose, PA
The timeless experience of riding in a horse-drawn carriage has been a joyous image of the holiday season for decades. Downtown Montrose is giving NEPA residents the chance to experience the festive tradition themselves. Take a ride through the historic town and take in the sights and sounds of the holiday season.
Monday, December 4
Wilkes-Barre, PA
The Nutcracker ballet is a beloved holiday tradition enjoyed annually. This year, you’ll be captivated by the extraordinary international cast and Ukrainian principal artists as they tell the enchanting tale of Clara, her nutcracker prince, and the evil mouse king at the F.M. Kirby Center for one performance only.
Weekends December 9-23
Scranton, PA
All aboard! Santa and the Mrs. are returning to Steamtown National Historic Site weekends in December to spread their holiday cheer. Experience the magic for yourself with an hour-long steam locomotive train ride featuring roaming musicians, holiday treats, festive decorations and of course, a visit from Santa Claus. Christmas jammies are encouraged!
December 17
Scranton, PA
Enjoy a festive feast with Santa and his elves during a very special brunch at Cooper’s Seafood House & Lighthouse Gift Shop. Santa will delight all with heartwarming stories, Christmas carols and special surprises straight from the North Pole.
December 21
Wilkes-Barre, PA
It almost wouldn’t be Christmas without a visit from TSO and their legendary Ghost of Christmas Eve concert at the Mohegan Sun Arena. Rock out this holiday season to their beloved holiday soundtrack.
Daily Through December 31
Tunkhannock, PA
Christmas in NEPA means the whole family is taking a ride to Stone Hedge Golf Course. Millions of glistening lights displays transform the back nine into a holiday wonderland. Afterwards, stop in for their holiday market, enjoy s’mores around the fire pits and visit with Santa Claus.
Daily Through December 31
Elysburg, PA
Pack up the family and see NEPA’s most beloved amusement park in a whole new light. Joy Through the Grove takes you on an illuminated journey through the park and campground with your favorite Knoebels attractions decked out for the season.
Select dates through December 31
Sugarloaf, PA
As one of the most immersive Christmas lights experiences in NEPA, Light the Night is guaranteed to put you in the holiday spirit. First, check out the walk-through lights displays, featuring the new 14,000 pixel Mega Tree. Then, enjoy s’mores, hot chocolate, yummy snacks and adult beverages huddled around fire pits and fire tables at the Sugar Loaf Golf Club.
Daily through January 5
Scranton, PA
Each holiday season, the Smurl family and their neighbors light up Prospect Ave. in Scranton with twinkling lights, window displays, and other festive décor. If you need a little holiday pick-me-up, be sure to take a drive around the Ave. or a chilly winter walk to view this epic display up close.
Daily through January 7
Scranton, PA
In its 20th season dazzling NEPA with twinkling lights displays, Nay Aug Park’s Light Spectacular is a must-see holiday tradition. This free, drive-through attraction features more than 100 light displays that illuminate the park, including a replica of the iconic Scranton Electric City sign.
Daily through January 7
Peckville, PA
The Peckville Christmas House is one of the most extravagant lights displays in NEPA. In fact, it’s been featured on ABC’s hit show “The Great Christmas Light Fight” with people from near and far coming to see it annually.
