Wilkesbarre Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Wilkesbarre and surrounding areas
Wilkes-Barre kicks off the festive season with downtown Public Square and Riverfront Park aglow in Christmas lights and a lively schedule of holiday attractions. Visitors can stroll through seasonal markets and enjoy theater performances and family-friendly activities. Events like the Wilkes-Barre Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting Ceremony and Santa 5K and Santa Photos on the Square bring community cheer, local vendors, and festive activities near Market Street and the cultural district.
Find the best Wilkes-Barre Christmas happenings this year!
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Christmas Shows
12 eventsNortheastern PA's oldest performing arts organization presents The Nutcracker.
Christmas Markets
9 eventsNationally recognized holiday market with German artisans
Christmas Lights
8 eventsDrive-through holiday lights on a golf course.
Christmas Activities
16 eventsAnnual Christmas parade and tree lighting ceremony.
Editor's Picks (6)
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Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem
(Bethlehem)
Nationally recognized holiday market with German artisans
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Jim Thorpe's Olde Time Christmas
(Jim Thorpe)
Victorian-style Christmas celebration in historic downtown Jim Thorpe.
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Wilkes-Barre Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting Ceremony
(Wilkes-Barre)
Annual Christmas parade and tree lighting ceremony.
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The Nutcracker
(Scranton)
Northeastern PA's oldest performing arts organization presents The Nutcracker.
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The Nutcracker
(Bethlehem)
Live orchestra accompanying The Nutcracker ballet.
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Back Mountain Festival of Lights at Stone Hedge Golf Course
(Tunkhannock)
Drive-through holiday lights on a golf course.
Events Happening Soon (6)
Wilkesbarre Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Also Near Wilkesbarre
Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways
Worth the drive for more holiday events near Wilkesbarre!
Wilkesbarre Christmas FAQ
Annual events often include tree lighting ceremonies in areas like Public Square and various community gatherings. Keep an eye on local event listings as the holiday season approaches for specific dates and details.
Wilkes-Barre often embraces traditions like community tree lightings and festive decorations in its downtown areas. The spirit of neighborly sharing and local events contributes to the unique holiday feel.
Residential neighborhoods, particularly areas like South Wilkes-Barre, are known for residents who decorate their homes extensively. Driving through these areas offers a delightful display of holiday spirit.
Keep an eye on community event calendars for pop-up Christmas markets, often held in downtown venues or community centers. These markets are great places to discover local artisans and unique crafts.
Enjoying neighborhood Christmas lights, attending free public tree lighting ceremonies, and exploring decorated public spaces are wonderful free options. Many community organizations also host free festive events.
Families often enjoy visiting Santa, attending holiday shows at venues like the F.M. Kirby Center, and exploring neighborhoods with festive light displays. Many local markets also offer kid-friendly activities.