The Wyoming Valley is set to celebrate the festive season with a series of community events throughout December 2025. From charitable skate sessions to holiday dinners, residents have ample opportunities to engage in seasonal activities while supporting local causes.
Annual Skate Event Promotes Holiday Giving
The 20th Annual Toys for Tots Open Skate will take place on Wednesday, December 3, from 18:00 to 20:00 at the Mohegan Arena in Wilkes-Barre Township. Participants are encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy for donation or a $5 contribution to support the Toys for Tots campaign. As a reminder, attendees must bring their own skates, as rentals will not be available at the arena. Those in need of skates can find rentals at the Toyota SportsPlex on Coal Street, which require a photo ID and credit card.
Celebrating Tradition and Community
On Sunday, December 7, the Slovak Heritage Society of Northeastern Pennsylvania will host a celebration of the Feast of St. Nicholas at St. Ignatius Loyola Church, located at 339 N. Maple Avenue in Kingston, starting at 14:00. The event will feature songs and storytelling about past Christmas traditions, with refreshments served. While the event is free, a free-will offering will be accepted. Interested individuals can contact Anna Hudock at 570-510-1655 for more information.
The Pi Beta Gamma Club of Wyoming Valley is organizing its Christmas party at the Wyoming Valley Country Club on Sunday, December 21. Guests are welcome, but RSVP is required by December 12. Interested parties can reach out to Susan at 570-357-3583 to confirm attendance.
For those with a sweet tooth, the Back Mountain Welsh cookie sale is accepting orders until December 3, with pickup scheduled for December 13. Cookies are priced at $8 per dozen, and orders can be placed by contacting Dianne Corby at 570-675-4893 or via email at [email protected].
Family-Friendly Activities and Charitable Initiatives
Families can enjoy “Breakfast with Santa and Mrs. Claus” at the Prince of Peace Episcopal Church on Saturday, December 6, from 11:00 to 13:00. The buffet breakfast costs $12, while children under 12 eat for free. Each child will receive a photo with Santa and a special gift.
The North Branch Land Trust will host a festive foraging event from 10:00 to noon on December 6 in the Anthracite Scenic Trails Association’s Rimple Loop. Participants will learn about foraging sustainability while enjoying holiday treats and creating their own holiday wreaths. Space is limited to 15 attendees, with costs set at $20 for members and $30 for non-members. For more details or to RSVP, visit nblt.org/events or email [email protected].
In addition to festive activities, local organizations are encouraging charitable contributions. The Dupont Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4909 is collecting new, unwrapped toys until December 14 for children aged newborn to 18. They are also accepting items for veterans, including toiletries and clothing, and nonperishable food items for those experiencing homelessness.
The community is invited to participate in various holiday events, including the Duryea Christmas Stroll on December 6, and the Kingston Historical Society’s annual holiday dinner on December 11. Residents are encouraged to engage in these gatherings to foster a sense of community and support local initiatives.
As the holiday season progresses, the Wyoming Valley area promises a vibrant array of events, each providing a unique opportunity for residents to connect, celebrate, and contribute to the community.