Santa ‘knows’ it’s time for holidays
What drew him to don that signature red suit?
Christmas all year
PA
LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
Farmers share tips on indoor holiday tree care illuminating the region Drive-thru displays a festive adventure
From the Editor ...
Have you ever wondered about who was behind the Santa suit? We interviewed six of our regional Santas to learn how they got started portraying the jolly elf. They offered their advice for others who are looking to keep the magic alive: Focus on the children and impart what Christmas is truly about. It’s not the gifts, it’s the spirit of kindness and giving that make Christmas a special time of year.
We are fortunate to have two authentic German Christmas markets, Williamsport’s and Christkindl in Mifflinburg, to learn more about and celebrate our heritage in the Susquehanna Valley. Williamsport’s, in its second year, continues to grow while Christkindl remains a longtime tradition for many in and outside our area.
In addition to our Christmas markets, many of our communities host late shoppers nights. These events allow shoppers to explore and spend time with their families while browsing wares from a unique array of small businesses. Small businesses offer promotions, refreshments and activities to interact and connect with their customers. Many of these late shoppers nights feature visits from Santa, musical entertainment as well as tree-lighting ceremonies.
For families who enjoy road trips, there are many fantastic drive-through light shows both in the Valley and beyond. Even regular attendees will likely discover something new as venues add or change displays each year.
The wonder on children’s faces as they’re surrounded by bright, colorful lights illuminating the path ahead is truly a priceless experience.
Christmas tree farms are an incredible resource to have locally. Not only do farmers work year-round to ensure the perfect tree, they also host seasonal events to engage with the community. They’ve also branched out to offer selections of wreaths, ornaments and more.
We at Inside PA hope that you embrace the kindness and giving spirit of the season as you enjoy your holidays.
Chelsea Ritter, Editor critter@dailyitem.com
INDEPENDENTLIVING,
PERSONALCARE,MEMORY CAREANDSKILLEDCARE... ALLONONECAMPUS.
INDEPENDENTLIVING AT THEMEADOWS
“Movingto TheMeadows at MariaJosephwas theright choice for me nearly fiveyearsago. Thequality of life is enhanced bythe strong senseofcommunity :neighbors helpingneighbors, friendly staff providingenter tainment,exerciseclasses,walking trips, andcaring supportwhenhelpisneeded.” ~Ruth
“I love alltheactivities at MariaJosephManor!!! Especiallythe ice creamtruck!!” ~Mar yAnne PERSONALCARE AT MARIAJOSEPH MANOR
MEMORYCAREAT NAZARETHMEMORY CENTER
“Shortly after my husband andI moved intothe Meadows,I realized my husband needed care at Nazareth Memory Center.He hasadaptedsowelland even refers to Nazareth as “home.”I can’t thank everyone enough forallowingustobeapar tofwhatwecall “family.” ~Becky andBirdie
SKILLEDCARE AT THE EMMANUELCENTER
“Thestaff at Emmanuel Center took such good careof me.One day twogirls came in to helpmeget readyandtheyweresinging asong. Soon,wereall laughingandsinging together.I am so thankful for allthe therapy department didforme.SogladImadethe choice to come to Emmanuel Center.” ~Jessie
CORRECTIONS
Lisa Z. Leighton’s byline for the Elysburg Haunted House story was omitted from the print edition of the Fall edition of Inside PA.
Liza Z. Leighton wrote the summer jobs feature in the summer edition of Inside PA. Her byline was misattributed.
TheHome e With a
Cover photo by Robert Inglis: Trevor Finn, of Danville, dresses up as Santa Claus.
Brian G. Persing Masonry is a full-service masonry contractor based out of Coal Township, PA that serves the Central Pennsylvania area. From concrete sidewalks to brick veneers and chimneys to fireplaces, we understand masonry. No project is too small and no project is too large. We are masonry craftsmen.
Rob’s favorite fall photos
Robert Inglis
Robert Inglis is an awardwinning photographer for The Daily Item. In 2023, Inglis’s 20-year Retrospective of Photographic Journalism was exhibited at the Degenstein Library in Sunbury.
Anaya Sharma, left, and Lucinda Miller, enjoy rolling down a hill at the Summit Learning Center’s new outdoor play area in Lewisburg on Sept. 22.
Brenda Martin picks grapes off the vines at Shade Mountain Winery on Sept. 18 in Middleburg.
Shamokin’s Nathan Erdman hits a shot out of a bunker during his round on Sept. 10 in Danville.
Christmas tree farms a labor of love
Farmers share triumphs, seasonal challenges
By Tricia Kline
Christmas is all year long for the Valley’s tree growers. They put in the hard work day in and day out, with all the seasonal challenges and careful caretaking required to provide you with the perfect Christmas tree when the holidays roll around.
And even though the holiday might feel a little different for them — being the growers and sellers rather than the buyers — this Christmas tradition is just as joyful when they see the smiling faces of customers who find “their” trees and take them home to be central pieces of their homes for the season.
“Until the selling season begins, it feels like work!” Blair Faust, who founded Shale Ridge Farm in Shamokin in
2007, said. But, he added, “During the selling season, we appreciate the joyful atmosphere.”
With their farm’s Christmas shop and the many activities offered throughout the fall and Christmas season, Kohl’s Stony Hill Tree Farm in Milton has a unique vantage point for the season’s joys.
“We get to see a lot of smiling faces and families coming together,” owner Stan Kohl said. Though he does admit it is a lot of work, and looks forward to Christmas Day, the one day he has to “kick back” and relax.
“Usually, the day after Christmas, I’m full bore going into the next year,” he said with a laugh.
For Richard and Mary McClellan, who are now “semi-
Photo provided
Stan Kohl, owner of Kohl’s Stony Hill Tree Farm, bales a Christmas tree.
CARING FOR AND DISPOSING OF YOUR CHRISTMAS TR
Christmas tree farm owners offered their own tips for caring for and disposing of Christmas trees:
Blair Faust, Shale Ridge Farm, Shamokin: Purchase your tree from a reliable source that is known for healthy trees. Before placing your tree in the stand, remove excess sap from the bottom of the tree trunk. Be sure not to allow the water reservoir to become dry. The first time you fill the reservoir, use hot water, then use cold water after the first fill. For disposing: Look for a community tree pick-up service or a drop-off location. These locations mulch the trees, which produce beneficial mulch.
Richard and Mary McClellan, McClellan’s Tree Farm, Middleburg: A fresh cut is recommended within 24 hours before putting your tree up. Blue Spruce variety trees should not be cut before Thanksgiving. Be sure to check for signs of disease before choosing your tree. If a tree is unhealthy, it will lose its needles faster. Look underneath the branches, on the underside of the needles; if it’s green, good. If it’s white or has little black spots, avoid it. Make sure your tree constantly has water — a gallon or more a day, especially at the start. It’s always good to dispose of trees in woodland, if you have access. We put ours in ponds for the fish, as it’s a hiding place for baby fish. Also, a lot of towns have chippers and make mulch. Avoid burning trees and leaves, as it is unfriendly to the environment.
Stan Kohl, Kohl’s Stony Hill Tree Farm, Milton: Buy your tree a little earlier than most people think. They look a lot healthier in mid- to late-November than in December, due to the colder weather causing the sap to run to the bottom and seal it off. Get it in water as quickly as you can. Buy your tree from a place where you can cut it down, so you know it’s not sitting in a lot and drying out. Never let it run out of water. In the house, you want it to be as cool as you can stand it, as the heat will dry it out. Don’t put it near a window where it can get sun. For the first couple of days, try giving it hot water, which may help the sap to loosen up and draw water back into the tree. For disposing: If you bring it back to us, we can throw it in our brush pile. Some towns have collections and will chip and mulch the tree.
retired” after 53 years of owning and operating McClellan’s Tree Farm in Middleburg, shortened hours for holiday sales this year, as well as fewer trees to sell, has given them an opportunity to slow down and make new Christmas traditions, and spend more time taking in the beauty of their farm. But they still thoroughly enjoy watching customers come each holiday season and take advantage of the farm’s unique “choose and cut” option.
“It just adds a whole lot of fun,” Mary said.
BECOMING A CHRISTMAS TREE GROWER
A love of Christmas tree farming took root in Richard McClellan’s heart during high school, when he had a job pruning trees. That, and “I was a kid who liked to play in the dirt growing up,” he said.
“Both of us really enjoy working outdoors and watching
Photo provided
Snow covers a Christmas tree at Shale Ridge Farm.
“T HE RELATIONSHIPS WE BUILT UP HERE ARE UNBELIEVABLE. PEOPLE COME BACK YEAR AFTER YEAR. ... WE’RE GLAD WE TOOK THE ADVENTURE.”
RICHARD MCCLELLAN
things grow,” Mary added.
So, even though they were both working full-time jobs in education at the time, Richard couldn’t pass up the opportunity to purchase a tree farm on 100 acres of rolling hills in rural Middleburg for $27,000 in 1973. They later built a home on the property.
They set their minds to do the hard work of selling trees, clearing land for future plantings, and learning all they could about Christmas tree farming. That first year, they sold 25 trees retail and 800 wholesale. At its peak, the farm boasted 100,000 trees, and they sold 8,000 per year.
Though a lot of labor and maintenance are involved (Richard said he has worked 70-hour weeks most of his life), Mary said what has kept them going so long was the uniqueness of each year and season and the beautiful maturing trees that would result from their hard work.
Not to mention the wonderful people and experiences they’ve had along the way.
“The relationships we built up here are unbelievable,” Richard said. “People come back year after year.”
“We’re glad we took the adventure,” Richard said.
Photo provided McClellan’s Tree Farm owners Richard and Mary McClellan stand beside one of their trees.
Photo provided Kohl’s Stony Hill Tree Farm
DREAMS AND HARD WORK
Stan Kohl always dreamed of owning a farm. Having worked for Furmano Foods in Northumberland, he decided for his own farm to depart from the produce he worked with all day.
He settled on Christmas trees — a product that would be planted earlier and harvested later, making it possible to work the process into his schedule.
When he and his wife found a farm for sale with 2,000 evergreen trees, Kohl acted quickly. Within the first week, he cut and hauled some of the giant Blue Spruces three to four at a time in his pickup to his grandparents’ store, Kohl’s Market. The sales went well, so they planted more the next spring and have continued to plant every year since.
In the beginning stages, Kohl was working a full-time job, while also renovating the house and caring for the trees.
“There were a lot of late nights,” he said. That included doing most of his mowing in the dark, guided only by the lights on his tractor, and shearing trees on late summer nights by the light of his headlamp.
Faust said Shale Ridge Farm became a success only with hard work and the assistance and support of his family. The year is carefully scheduled to ensure equipment is upgraded, fields are cleared and mulched, fertilized, planted and mowed. And then, of course, there is the trimming, tagging, cutting, baling and selling of trees during the holiday season.
The farm sells 800 to 1,200 trees each year. During the COVID-19 shutdown, Faust said they began exclu-
sively selling retail trees at Knoebel’s Christmas Village. The farm is a secondary job for Faust, who is the director of resort operations at Knoebels Amusement Resort.
EXPANDING THE BUSINESS
In addition to Christmas trees, a couple of these local farms have expanded their offerings. The McClellans have sold handmade wreaths, along with roping, stands, preservative and tree bags, as well as their popular winter berry holly. They shake, bale and drill the trees for no extra charge. Though they do not have a gift shop, they do offer free hot chocolate, coffee and tea daily during their hours of operation. This year, they will only be open for five days, starting the Saturday before Thanksgiving and closing the Wednesday before Thanksgiving.
Today, Kohl’s Stony Hill Tree Farm boasts 30,000 trees, and the Christmas shop contains more than 100,000 ornaments. The Kohls also have the largest collection of Christmas tree stands in the world, according to the Guinness Book of World Records.
They have expanded their offerings to include fun-filled activities all fall, including a corn maze, giant-sized outdoor games, a corn cannon, a giant pumpkin sling shot and hayrides.
“I like to think I’m helping people for a couple of hours to spend time outside and walk around, enjoying the great outdoors,” Stan Kohl said.
Photo provided
Blair Faust, Shale Ridge Farm, poses in front of a decorated Christmas tree with his daughter, Katie Rishel.
Photo provided Winterberry Holly is grown at McClellan’s Tree Farm.
“novem,” Latin for “nine.”
the chrysanthemum.
German Christmas Market in Williamsport growing
Festival created through community, arts, college groups
By Cindy O. Herman
Just like elves working together in a toy shop, the collaboration between a college, an arts group and a community organization allowed the German Christmas Market to launch in just a few months. The Williamsport market is now embarking on its second year and will be held Dec. 5-6.
Last year, Caroline Payne, Lycoming College’s community-based learning director, and Len Cagle, the college’s
German professor, worked with their students to create a festival that would remind people of Lycoming County’s German roots.
“This was a project of theirs, to research these German Christmas markets and represent what the most important elements were. And I don’t think they realized that by the end of the year this would become a real thing,” Michaela Henne, administrator at Williamsport Business Association
Photo provided Traditional hut structures add authenticity to the German Christmas Market (Weihnachtsmarkt), in Williamsport.
Photo provided People warm up around a heater at the German Christmas Market (Weihnachtsmarkt), in Williamsport.
(WBA), said. “It started with that class and then Lycoming College reached out to Lycoming Arts and the Williamsport Business Association. As nonprofits with limited resources, we’re better off coming together rather than working independently.”
Last year, they established some iconic items for the German Christmas Market, or Weihnachtsmarkt, as they say in Germany. Ford Custom Renovation built a largerthan-life German Christmas pyramid.
“It’s a beautiful thing,” Henne said. “It actually spins. There are tiers for decorations and lighting. They just did such a wonderful job.”
Other businesses and institutions contributed their talent, such as Innerstoic Wine & Cider Company, of Morris, bringing Glühwein, a hot mulled spice wine traditional to Christmas markets. Lycoming College and Penn College of Technology built 10 rustic-
looking huts for vendors.
“Even though we had over 40 vendors, we kind of created one uniform street with the huts and strung lights across them, and it was really beautiful,” Henne said.
GERMAN TOUCHES
No self-respecting German market would expect people to venture out without the lure of tasty treats, and Williamsport’s German Christmas Market is prepared to satisfy all palates with vendors offering peanut brittle, whoopie pies, fudge, bratwurst and soft pretzels, and other items. Sweetspire Coffee, in Williamsport, will provide German pastries.
With the exception of sponsors advertising their businesses, all the craft vendors sell homemade wares offering everything from soaps, charcuterie boards and handbags to
Photo provided An iconic Christmas pyramid lends authenticity and style to the German Christmas Market (Weihnachtsmarkt), in Williamsport.
A worker at Adam and Nancy’s Paninis smiles as he serves a customer at the German Christmas Market (Weihnachtsmarkt), in Williamsport.
fine art, wrapped jewelry, ceramics and plushes.
Visitors can also purchase signature steins and Glühwein glasses to get a reduced price on beverages.
Collaboration is the name of the game. During the two weeks leading up to the Market, people are encouraged to participate in the Passport Program – visit local businesses to receive pins that can be turned in for chances to win gift baskets.
“What was so wonderful, our winner of the gift basket last year was from Bloomsburg, and she said she came back to town several times and used the passport and shopped prior to the market, which was the goal, to draw people to the Market or to Williamsport for the weekend,” Henne said.
The WBA also partners with the Holiday Inn to offer a $99 rate for people attending or vending at the Market.
Weihnachtsmarkt will boast live music, Twinkling Tiaras princesses reading stories to kids, and visits from Mayor Derek Slaughter and Santa Claus. On Friday, people can make lanterns and join in a procession, lighting the pyramid at the German Christmas Market then heading to the Green in downtown Williamsport to light the tree there.
The German Christmas Market is already growing, expanding to two days this year and adding the princesses and the Friday procession. A grant from First Community Foundation Partnership enabled organizers to have 20 more traditional huts built.
The WBA makes it easy to travel from the Market to downtown Williamsport by catching a ride on the trolley –look for the nutcracker signs to find the trolley stops.
“From a WBA perspective, we’re trying to encourage people to make that Christmas weekend in Williamsport, because there’s so much going on,” Henne said. “‘The Nutcracker’ will be at the Community Arts Center. The Salvation Army Festival of the Trees is taking place. There’s the Festival of the Lights, in Brandon Park. The Thomas Taber Museum Ornament Show. There’s a big, long list of things happening this weekend, and we’re going to use trolleys to connect those events.”
Photo provided
Mifflinburg’s Christkindl Market brings the community together
The Christkindl Market in Mifflinburg has become such a fixture in the town’s life that schoolkids return years later, bringing friends or their own small children.
The Market opens Thursday, Dec. 11, with church bells ringing and trumpet fanfare as the Christkindl Angel, St. Nicholas and the Mifflinburg Area High School Renaissance Band lead the opening procession. The Market continues through Saturday, Dec. 13, with German food, unique craft vendors, live entertainment and plenty of community involvement.
On Friday evening, kids are invited to join in the Children’s Lantern Parade followed by visits with St. Nicholas. Elementary through high school students are involved in bands, choruses and performances. Local organizations sell homemade soups, brats and desserts.
Matt Wagner has been involved with Christkindl Market from the beginning, as the high school band director and, more recently, as the president of the board of directors.
“There are people on the Christkindl board who grew up with Christkindl,” Wagner said. “We even have one guy who lives in Florida who comes back every year for Christkindl.”
Every year, volunteers transform Market and Fifth streets into an authentic German village.
“What I have found interesting is, yes, it’s work,” Wagner said. “But the enjoyment people get out of starting with a blank street and then seeing it all decorated with all the lights are up … you can see people’s enthusiasm once they see it come together.”
Each year, the Mifflinburg Christkindl Market selects a city in Germany or Austria as its theme. This year’s city is Regensburg, Germany, recognized as one of the best-preserved medieval cities in that country and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Wagner will offer a PowerPoint presentation on the city’s history and current life. He recalled a similar presentation on Cologne, Germany, after which a couple who had grown up there approached him.
“They said, ‘You just brought back so many memories. We just left Cologne, and you got it. You got the spirit of the city,’” Wagner recalled. “And they said, ‘We’ve been to other Markets, and this one is by far more similar to what you actually experience in Germany.’”
What keeps Mifflinburg’s Christkindl Market so authentic is also what lends it a distinctive charm: it’s homegrown, and it’s held outdoors.
“All of our food and gift vendors have handcrafted items, not manufactured,” Wagner said. “And that’s what people love about it. It’s just very homey.”
— Cindy O. Herman
Photo provided
The entrance to Christkindl Market in Mifflinburg.
Photo provided Volunteers at the Kiwanis Club of Mifflinburg sell homemade pretzel bites at the Christkindl Market, in Mifflinburg.
Photo provided
Cinnamon Treasures sells clever, homemade gifts at the Christkindl Market, in Mifflinburg.
Late Shoppers Nights a boon for small businesses, community
Santa visits, giveaways, holiday treats, more planned
By Elyse Spahr
Late Night Shoppers night is a staple in so many communities as a way to kick off the holiday season. Not only are these evenings convenient for those who can’t get their shopping done during the day, but they are also important reminders to shop local and support small businesses, especially during the holiday season.
Every year, families and community members look forward to an evening full of getting gifts for everyone on their lists, and making memories with loved ones. Here’s a look at the opportunities offered this holiday season:
DANVILLE
On Dec. 12, Danville will host its annual late shoppers night from 5-8 p.m. Local businesses stay open until at least 8 p.m. for shoppers to find gifts for the people on their lists.
In addition to shopping, “The Holiday,” will play in Canal Park. The Danville Business Alliance invites guests to “warm up with hot cocoa and fresh coffee from Bason Coffee Roasting, enjoy buttery popcorn from the Moose, and gather ’round the fire pits as a local scout troop roasts marshmallows for a sweet winter treat.”
It is sure to be a fun festive evening for all in attendance.
SELINSGROVE
Selinsgrove has many holiday festivities planned throughout the months of November and December. The stocking decorating contest started on Nov. 1. Stockings could be purchased at Graci’s flowers, decorated and dropped off at the Rudy Gelnett Memorial Library to be displayed until they were judged on Nov. 5. Prizes will be awarded and stockings can be stuffed on Dec. 6.
The holiday passport and the annual gingerbread
Photo provided The tree lighting in Milton will be held on Dec. 5.
Inside PA file photo Vendors will set up in Lewisburg on Dec. 5 for late shoppers night.
Inside PA file photo Sunbury will offer horse-drawn carriage rides during its late shoppers night on Dec. 4.
house decorating contest is from Nov. 15-Dec. 20. The Selinsgrove Chamber of Commerce encourages people to “Stop at participating businesses, write down the participating business number in your passport, and submit by Saturday, Dec. 20, for our end-of-year giveaway!”
Prizes include a 65-inch TV and snowboard. Completed gingerbread houses will be displayed in local businesses from Nov. 15-Dec. 9 to be voted on by the community. Prizes will be awarded during Late Night Selinsgrove, which is Tuesday, Dec. 9.
Candy Lane Christmas at the commons is on Dec. 6. The day begins at 9:30 a.m. with awards for the stocking decorating contest followed at 10 by a petting zoo and time to stuff stockings. At 2 p.m., Santa’s pet parade will begin at the Sharon Lutheran Church, 120 S. Market St., parking lot.
Late Night Selinsgrove will start at 6 p.m. The chamber of commerce says the event is “showcasing all Selinsgrove has to offer: Dining, shopping, art, music, and treats.”
LEWISBURG
Every year Lewisburg celebrates the holiday season with Miracle on Market, which is a monthlong celebration of all the holidays.
A tree lighting ceremony is set for Dec. 4, and all are encouraged to join. Downtown Liaison Amy Thomas said, “We try to keep it universal, so that everybody can feel included.”
A highlight for Thomas is the late shoppers night, which will be on Dec. 5. She recalls shopping and drinking hot cider last year. “It was really festive and
Inside PA file photo
Santa’s pet parade will start at Sharon Lutheran Church parking lot in Selinsgrove on Dec. 6.
beautiful. I loved it,” she said.
Locals and visitors alike have enjoyed a mix of kettle corn, baked goods, hot cocoa and soup through the years. Past years have also brought activities such as gift wrapping and caroling. Every year brings something new, fun and exciting to be enjoyed.
On Dec. 20, Santa is coming to the Campus Theatre, where children can meet him and stay for a movie.
MIFFLINBURG
Mifflinburg kicks off the holiday season on Sunday, Nov. 30, with late-night shopping night and the annual tree lighting. Shop from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., and take a quick break at 7 to catch the tree lighting at the old borough building. Then head next door to the fire company for hot cocoa, cider, cookies and to meet Santa Claus.
“There is also a traditional coloring contest sponsored by the MHRA and Heritage Printing & Design for kids with a drawing done by local artist Bridget Catherman,” executive director of the MHRA Heidi Criswell said. Interested participants can grab the coloring page from the November Borough newsletter, Mifflinburg Free Press or on the MHRA’s Facebook page.
SUNBURY
Late Night Shoppers in Downtown Sunbury is set for Dec. 4 from 5-9 p.m.
“Late Night Shoppers offers holiday shoppers an opportunity to support local businesses and area crafters,” according to the Sunbury Revitalization website. Crafters and vendors will be in the Albright Center for the Arts, 450 Chestnut St. Also in the Albright Center will be a variety of
raffle prizes, hot soup and cookies.
If shopping isn’t your thing, free carriage rides are available departing from Sunbury Station, 100 N. Third St.
Shoppers can enjoy an evening filled with good food and holiday cheer.
MILTON
Milton’s holiday season kicks off on Dec. 5 from 5-10 p.m. with the Holiday on Broadway event.
“This event includes our tree-lighting ceremony, our Santa Toy Run, real reindeer, live music, dancers and various craft and food vendors,” Milton Winterfest Committee Member Lindsay Musser Zeiber said.
The fun continues from 9-11 a.m. on Dec. 6 with Santa Breakfast at the Masonic Lodge. Adult admission is $5 and kids are $2 or free with the donation of a hygiene product.
“All kids receive breakfast, a goodie bag, and a free toy,” Zeiber said.
The community can visit Santa from Dec. 6-21 every Friday from 5-8 p.m. and weekends from 1-4 p.m. Free professional photography nights are Dec. 12 and 19. Every visiting child will receive a small gift from Santa.
Family Trivia is planned from 5-7 p.m. on Dec. 14 on the second floor of the Milton Moose at Chef’s Place. There will be pizza and prizes for the winning family.
Lastly, Milton has a holiday craft contest with the White Deer Elementary School.
“Fourth- and fifth-graders will be challenged with creating their best holiday craft that represents the spirit of the season,” Zeiber said. “There will be a winner from each grade and an overall winner that will receive a special gift from Santa.”
Residents keep holiday magic alive as Santa
Jolly elves share fondest memories, portrayal tips
By Chelsea Ritter
Whether you know him as Kris Kringle, Santa Claus or Saint Nicholas, the man in red has become a huge part of many Christmas celebrations.
From shopping malls to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, Santa is there to spread holiday cheer and remind us all of the true spirit of Christmas: giving and kindness. Our region has many volunteers who dedicate their time and energy to ensuring everyone has a magical season. Learn more about the jolly souls under the red hat and why they have continued the tradition year after year.
NATHAN EICHNER ( SELINSGROVE AND SHAMOKIN DAM )
How long have you been playing Santa? I’ve been a Santa for 14 years at DH&L Fire Company and Shamokin Dam Fire Company.
What are the most rewarding and challenging as-
pects of portraying Santa? I enjoy seeing the smiles that we bring to the children of the Valley with our Santa rides. This year, on top of our yearly rides, DH&L is doing a Santa meet and greet on Sunday, Dec. 7, from 3 to 7 p.m.
What motivated you to start playing Santa? My grandfather has had a suit for more than 40 years. It was handed down to my father and eventually was passed down to me, so it’s been in the family for a long time.
What is your fondest memory? During COVID-19, when everyone was stuck in their houses, I talked with the guys at the firehouse about doing a Santa ride for the children who couldn’t have any fun over Christmas vacation, so we went and did a Santa ride for them.
What advice would you have for people trying to keep the magic of Santa alive? Promote it as much as possible. I love to see the joy it brings to all, especially during the trying times.
Photo provided Nathan Eichner portrays Santa while riding aboard a Shamokin Dam fire truck.
VICTORIA ROSANCRANS ( SUNBURY )
How long have you been playing Santa? My wife, Kristine Rosancrans, and I have been portraying Santa and Mrs. Clause for about eight years in the City of Sunbury. We take our role as Santa and Mrs. Claus very seriously and are always looking to enhance our craft. We are members of the New England Santa Society. We are also the co-chairs of the Sunbury Litefest Committee. We organize the Sunbury Christmas in July event, Sunbury Santa Parade, decorating the city for the holidays, and are caretakers for the deer display in Cameron Park.
What are the most rewarding and challenging aspects of portraying Santa? The most rewarding aspect of portraying Santa is seeing all the smiles, listening to children telling stories about what crazy antics their Elf on the Shelf has done and especially those tender moments of a hug and a whisper of “I love you, Santa.” The challenging part is maintaining my voice in a low tone for hours at a time. There are times when a child will look at me and say, “Are you a woman?” I then explain that I’m the head elf at the North Pole and I had to fill in for Santa because he had an emergency in the workshop.
What motivated you to start playing Santa? We stepped into the Santa duties after Ray Defacis passed away unexpectedly. We started the Santa’s Miracle Gift of Giving charity two years before he passed away. The charity provided gifts and a meal to families in need in the Valley.
What is your fondest memory? The first year that I portrayed Santa. I set the goal to have the house accessible by the following year. I would have to visit children
and adults on the pavement outside the house. A sidewalk visit definitely lacked the holiday spirit. My fondest memory is when I pushed a young woman in a wheelchair up the accessible ramp into the Santa House. Prior to that day, the Santa House was not accessible. The ramp was purchased with grant funds and by a large donation from a local organization.
What advice would you have for people trying to keep the magic of Santa alive? Emphasize that the true “magic” of Santa is the kindness, generosity and love of the Christmas spirit. Their enthusiasm will be contagious; they need to make sure they’re enjoying the season’s magic and wonder as well.
Photo provided
Victoria Rosancrans and her wife, Kristine, portray Mr. and Mrs. Claus in Sunbury.
Photo provided
Victoria Rosancrans set a goal to make Santa’s House handicapped-accessible in Sunbury during her first year as Santa.
CHARLIE WAYNE ( SHAMOKIN )
How long have you been playing Santa? 9 years professionally.
What are the most rewarding and challenging aspects of portraying Santa? The most rewarding part is making kids (and parents) smile. The most challenging part is answering some difficult questions.
What motivated you to start playing Santa?
Christmas is my favorite holiday. I love it! I always thought it would be great being Santa. I bought a nice suit and started advertising.
Where have you played Santa? What is your fondest memory? I have played Santa for numerous private parties, public events (Santa parades, the library, cookies with Santa, and more), the Polar Express in Baltimore, breakfast with Santa at the Hard Rock Cafe in Philadelphia, nursing homes, schools, malls, with a photographer, charity events (volunteer), office parties, Knoebels and more. Many memories are fond ones, but I don’t have a fondest memory.
What advice would you have for people trying to keep the magic of Santa alive? Treat every person like you are exceptionally happy to see them. Make them smile. Make them feel like they are happy to have spent time with you even if they don’t get what they asked for. For people visiting Santa, you’re never too old to sit on Santa’s lap. (Charlie can be reached by emailing santa@ ptd.net or calling 570-259-4923)
Photo provided
Charlie Wayne started playing Santa due to his love of Christmas.
DAVE RUDON ( SELINSGROVE )
How long have you been playing Santa? About 20 years
What are the most rewarding and challenging aspects of portraying Santa? When you can get adults to suspend disbelief and seeing the wonder in children’s eyes.
What motivated you to start playing Santa? A girl that I was dating asked me if I would play Santa for their family Christmas party. After seeing Tim Allen in the Santa Claus, I wanted to build my own suits. I have 3 suits that have cost me $8,000. I have a beard and wig made of human hair. I had to go down to Kentucky and have it made at $2,700.
Where have you played Santa? What is your fondest memory? I do it for fire houses, churches, VFWs. My fondest memory: I’m president of the motorcycle club and we raise money for seriously ill children each year who are uninsured and in need. Ryan, who has Cystic Fibrosis, autism and diabetes, had copays that were $3,700 a month. I decided to call and Ryan’s mom told me they were trying to get Ryan to sit on Santa’s lap to no avail. Ryan saw Santa at the Danville VFW and he hid behind his mother when Santa first came in. I knew he wanted to be a state trooper when he grew up and asked him if he had been a good boy this year. He didn’t hide behind his mother after hearing Santa call her by her name. His parents were shocked that he willingly interacted with Santa. I also have credit cards and a driver’s license as Santa and people will tell me “You make me believe in Santa.”
What advice would you have for people trying to keep the magic of Santa alive? If you do it for money, don’t do it. If you’re doing it for the children, that’s what really counts. When I put that suit on, I am Santa and all that matters are the kids.
Photo provided
Dave Rudon’s motorcycle club raises money each year to help a seriously ill child in our area with medical expenses.
TREVOR FINN ( DANVILLE )
How long have you been playing Santa? 12 years
What are the most rewarding and challenging aspects of portraying Santa? In Danville, we get a lot of children who are there because of Geisinger, whether it’s their health issues or a loved one. They come to see Santa and it’s difficult because you want to comfort them but also to share the spirit of Christmas. It’s really rewarding when you see the glint of hope in their eye after interacting with them, but it can be challenging to determine what each child may need in that moment.
What motivated you to start playing Santa? I was asked. Danville lost a Santa and when they asked me I started growing a beard and had to dye it for a while. I don’t have to dye it as much anymore as I’ve gotten older but do still work some magic on it.
Where have you played Santa? What is your fondest memory? I have played Santa for the Danville Business Alliance, Washington Fire and Hose Company No. 2, Danville Moose, Lutz Pre-school, Danville Pharmacy, Sister of Saints Cyril and Methodius, Holy Family Convent, Danville Knights of Columbus, Bason’s Coffee, Danville Primary Center, California Grange, Gatehouse Shelter on behalf of the Danville Kiwanis, law enforcement agencies of Montour County and Riverside, and private parties. One of my favorite memories was playing Santa for adults with intellectual disabilities. The Danville Pharmacy would hold a dinner and host Santa for them. They really believed in Santa and what he represents. My wife and I read books to homeless children one year as well.
What advice would you have for people trying to keep the magic of Santa alive? You have to have an honest connection with the children about the magic of Christ-
mas. It truly is about giving, but children get that. They understand the kindness involved with giving to others.
Photo provided
Trevor Finn listens to a child tell him what she wants for Christmas.
Photo provided Trevor Finn waits for visitors in Santa’s House in Danville.
KIRK MILLER ( NORTHUMBERLAND )
How long have you been playing Santa? 24 years
What are the most rewarding and challenging aspects of portraying Santa? Most rewarding is bringing joy to children and most challenging is the kids who are on the verge of not believing and all of the questions they have. My wife has been joining me as Mrs. Claus for the past two years.
What motivated you to start playing Santa? My late wife gifted me a Santa suit because she knew how much I enjoyed Christmas and thought that I would make a really good Santa. I used to wear a beard but now my natural beard is white enough that I don’t have to.
Where have you played Santa? What is your fondest memory? I’ve played Santa at the park in Norry, the Priestley House, family get-togethers and I previously played Santa at the Northumberland Legion. My fondest memory is seeing kids from the park and then seeing them at Priestley School and they’re shocked it is the same Santa and think Santa must be real; he’s everywhere.
What advice would you have for people trying to keep the magic of Santa alive? Let the moment capture you, it’s a magical time, and to enjoy the spirit of the season.
Robert Inglis
Kirk Miller has been portraying Santa for 24 years.
Christmas Trees, wreaths, nogs and spiders
Exploring the meaning behind weird, treasured holiday traditions
By Heather Lancaster
With the holidays in full swing, I began to wonder the deeper meaning behind certain traditions. For example, why do we cut pine trees and place decorations on them in our home and why is eggnog a popular holiday beverage? To get to the bottom of these customs, I did some research and found surprising details on our beloved traditions!
OH CHRISTMAS TREE…
To begin my research, I wanted to discover the meaning behind the Christmas tree. The glow of the lights and tinsel along with the sparkle of holiday ornaments is one of my favorite decorations. According to History.com, “the history of Christmas trees goes back to the symbolic use of evergreens in ancient Egypt and Rome and continues with the German tradition of candlelit Christmas trees first brought to America in the 1800s.” Before the advent of Christian-
Heather Lancaster
Heather Lancaster
Trish Morgan
ity, vegetation that remained green yearlong had special meaning for cultures in the winter months. Ancient people hung evergreen boughs over doors and windows to ward away witches, ghosts, evil spirits and illness.
According to History.com, “In the Northern hemisphere, the shortest day and longest night of the year falls on Dec. 21 or Dec. 22 and is called the winter solstice. Many ancient people believed that the sun was a god and that winter came every year because the sun god had become sick and weak.
“They celebrated the solstice because it meant that at last the sun god would begin to get well. Evergreen boughs reminded them of all the green plants that would grow again when the sun god was strong and summer would return.”
Germany is initially credited with the tradition of the Christmas tree as we now know it in the 16th century when devout Christians brought decorated trees into their homes. Some “trees’’ were actually pyramids of wood and decorated with evergreens and candles if wood was scarce.
“In 1846, the popular royals, Queen Victoria and her German Prince, Albert, were sketched in the Illustrated London News standing with their children around a Christmas tree. Unlike the previous royal family, Victoria was very popular with her subjects, and what was done at court immediately became fashionable — not only in Britain, but
with fashion-conscious East Coast American Society.”
The Christmas tree was now a household staple. By the 1890s, ornaments were arriving to the U.S. from Germany and the popularity of this new tradition was growing.
Europeans typically used smaller, four-foot trees, while Americans enjoyed the look of floor to ceiling trees. Twentieth century Americans traditionally decorated trees with homemade ornaments and German-Americans continued to use apples, nuts and marzipan cookies. Dyed popcorn became popular when used with berries and nuts.
Hazardous candles were replaced when electricity came about, making it more convenient to keep the glow going all of the time. Various decorations around the world adorn these evergreen trees with color, texture and materials, making each one truly unique.
NOG YOUR MEMORY
Up next, is the beloved eggnog we so deliciously enjoy! Well, not everyone, but to some, it is a holiday highlight. Drinking a spiced and spiked egg-yolk and milk mixture might only sound good to Beauty and the Beast’s Gaston, but it certainly has its charm.
According to Time Magazine, “While culinary historians debate its exact lineage, most agree eggnog originated from the early medieval Britain ‘posset,’ a hot, milky, alelike drink. By the 13th century, monks were known to drink a posset with eggs and figs. Milk, eggs and sherry were
foods of the wealthy, so eggnog was often used in toasts to prosperity and good health.” The drink “became tied to the holidays when the drink hopped the pond in the 1700s. American colonies were full of farms — with chickens and cows — and cheaper rum, a soon-signature ingredient. Mexico adopted the very eggnog varietal “rompope,” and Puerto Rico enjoys the ‘coquito,’ which adds coconut milk. The English name’s etymology however remains a mystery. Some say ‘nog’ comes from ‘noggin,’ meaning a wooden cup, or ‘grog,’ a strong beer. By the late 18th century, the combined term ‘eggnog’ stuck. Some devout eggnog drinkers argue that those who don’t like the Yuletide drink have simply never tasted the real thing.
A SPIDER IN YOUR CIDER?
Have you ever placed tinsel or small spider ornaments on your holiday tree? The Legend of the Christmas Spider is one that was introduced to me years ago and one I find quite fun! Not just for Halloween, the Christmas tradition of the spider has been attributed to various countries, mainly Ukraine and Germany. One story depicts the tradition of a widowed mother too poor to decorate her tree, so friendly spiders spin elaborate webs on her tree. On Christmas morning when the mother and her children awaken, they discover sunlight hitting the webs, turning them gold and silver, perhaps the origin of tinsel! Good fortune was placed on the family from then on.
YULE LOVE IT!
Next up are Yule logs! Have you ever wondered why it became popular to turn the channel to a burning yule log on Christmas morning? According to History.com, “Yule
Heather Lancaster
logs were part of ancient winter solstice celebrations, but it was Americans who turned the wood burning into mustsee TV. Back in 1966, WPIX-TV in New York City aired a continuous 17-second loop of a fireplace for three hours along with holiday music. That led to an eventual better production and nearly 20 years of annual viewing.” Today, you can view the yule log on many different platforms.
WHAT IF SANTA IS LACTOSE INTOLERANT?
One of my best childhood memories was leaving cookies and milk for Santa. But why do we set out a plate of baked goods and a glass of milk for the jolly man with the beard?
This tradition dates back to ancient Norse mythology. It wasn’t until the Depression that folks started mentioning the midnight snack to the gods as a thank you to St. Nick.
YOU ARE QUITE THE CARD!
If you’re like me, it’s hit or miss when the Christmas cards are ready to be sent. Some years I have them ready early, and others I almost don’t send them because it’s so late. But regardless, I love receiving them from friends and family with updated photos and notes. Regardless of timing, why is sending a holiday card customary? “The first official Christmas card debuted in 1843 England with the simple message, ‘A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to You.’ The idea of a mailed winter holiday greeting gradually caught on in both Britain and the U.S., with the Kansas City-based Hall Brothers (now Hallmark) creating a folded card sold with an envelope in 1915. Today, according to the Greeting Card Association, more than 1.6 billion holiday cards are sold annually.”
These are just a few of my favorites, but there are so many more unique traditions with rich histories from all countries. Some that you may want to start adding to your yearly traditions. May you all be blessed with health and friendship this holiday season.
This column originally appeared in Allegany Magazine.
Heather Lancaster
Heather Lancaster
Kids will gobble up these Thanksgiving activities
We sat down with our friend and fellow mom, Janine Hall, who is an expert on all things crafty and cute!
Janine lives in Bloomsburg (Central Columbia School District) and is mama to twin sons and a daughter.
She is also a licensed massage therapist, a certified aromatherapist and an avid nature lover.
She grew up with a crafty mom herself, and enjoyed doing artsy activities as a child. Since becoming a mother, she has looked for simple but effective ways of keeping her kids occupied, making things fun and
TURKEY CHARCUTERIE BOARD
Snack boards are a favorite at our house and I love to make a little magic with them. Take what you already have at home to make this little turkey. I used a small cutting board to make the shape but a plate works also.
The beauty is you can add things you already have in your refrigerator or pantry. It always amazes me how much kids eat, even those healthier choices, when you make a cute display! I made this as an after-school snack but it would be great for the kids table at Thanksgiving!
Included here: Apple slices, mini carrots, cheese cubes, cucumber slices, pretzel sicks, a ginger snap cookie for the face (eyes are sugar decoration, beak is cheese triangle) and raspberries.
interesting, and always adding magic to any holiday or special occasion, no matter how big or small.
Her projects are always fairly simple, and often only require items we would have in our own homes or can easily acquire.
Below are some of our favorite crafty activities and recipes for you to recreate with your kids!
You can follow Janine on Instagram @janinevhall for all sorts of fun, family-friendly content!
— Molly Werntz, Susquehanna Kids
“THINGS WE ARE THANKFUL FOR” TURKEY BOOK
Supply List
Brown paper bag
White and colored cardstock
Scrap ribbon and yarn
Googly eyes
Hot glue Hole punch
This is an easy craft to do together with your kids, and a wonderful keepsake, as you can read what your kids were thankful for for years to come.
To make:
pieces to fit inside for the pages. Hole punch and then tie with scrap ribbon and yarn.
My cute thankful tag is a printable from my friend @ whittxwhimsy. (I love using DIY printables with most of our crafts. It is an easy way to add a little extra fun and a great way to support small shops)
I take a brown paper bag and folded it in half to make a book cover. I then cut white card stock
TP TURKEY ROLL
We are never short of TP rolls in our house! Grab some brown paint, colorful cardstock for feathers (or a pack of colored feathers from Dollar Tree), and some googly eyes and you have yourself a cute and simple Thanksgiving craft!”
Cut the cardstock into oval feather shapes and make small cuts in the sides for feathery details. Glue the feathers to the back of the roll in a fanned-out shape. Next, glue the eyes onto the center and use a small paper triangle for the beak.
Next, the kids glue on the eyes, nose and feathers. They pick the color for their feathers and yarn, and they love having a little book to add what they are thankful for throughout the month.
Janine Hall
Janine Hall
Janine Hall
Recipe
BAKED PUMPKIN DONUTS & APPLE CIDER CUPS
1 box spice cake mix
1 can pumpkin
2 eggs
1/4 cup oil
Topping
2/3 cup sugar
2 tablespoons cinnamon
4 tablespoons melted butter
Mix donut ingredients together. Fill donut pan 2/3 full (put ingredients in sandwich bag and cut one corner for easy piping) and bake at 350° for 15-18 minutes. Remove and cool on wire rack.
The best part: Melt 4 tablespoons butter. In a separate bowl mix sugar and cinnamon. Brush donuts with butter and then coat with sugar/cinnamon mixture. Are these the healthiest donuts? Nope! But they are so tasty and easy for little bakers to make.
A cute addition to donuts is to make apple cups filled with apple cider! Hollow out the apple, pour in warm cider, add a straw, and I promise you they will be a hit. Bonus: The cup can then be eaten!
Janine Hall
Holiday lights illuminate region
Families can enjoy holiday magic from vehicles
By Cindy O. Herman
From the time the first candle was placed in a window to welcome a weary traveler home, lights have given us warmth and cheer in the darkest of seasons.
During the holidays, a number of places in Central Pennsylvania banish the shadows with light shows that friends and families can enjoy together. Take a look at these options.
JOY THROUGH THE GROVE
o When: Nov. 28 – Dec. 31, 5:30 – 9 p.m. Closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
o Where: Knoebels Amusement Resort, 391 Knoebels Blvd., Elysburg.
o Unique highlights: More than two miles of string lights and more than 500 light-up pieces. Don’t miss Promo Nights, select Mondays – Thursdays.
“This two-mile, drive-thru experience takes you through a winding path dazzled with twinkling lights, hundreds of illuminated pieces and custom Knoebels-themed displays featuring park rides and characters,” Stacy Yutko, public relations & guest experience director, said.
o Cost: $25 to $30 for cars, $50 for vans (Save $5 by prepurchasing at knoebels.com)
o Info: https://knoebels.com/joy-through-the-grove or 800-487-4386
Photo provided
Farm animals and corn stalks are arranged around a barn at Knoebels’ Joy Through the Grove event.
Photo provided
Enjoy Knoebels’ Joy Through the Grove and the Christmas Village at nearby Three Ponds Golf Course.
KNOEBELS CHRISTMAS VILLAGE
o When: Thursday-Sunday, Nov. 29 – Dec. 22
o Where: Three Ponds Golf Course, 954 Pennsylvania 487, Elysburg (Less than 1/2 mile from Knoebels Amusement Park)
o Unique highlights: “Three Ponds Golf Course transforms
o Where: Benigna’s Creek Vineyard and Winery, 1585 Ridge Road, Klingerstown.
o Unique highlights: Two-and-a-half acres of grapevines come alive with synchronized Christmas lights dancing to favorite holiday tunes. Enjoy wine pourings, Santa’s visit, reindeer, tractor rides, food and campfires.
“Our Lighting of the Vineyard event has become a favorite way for folks to kick off the holiday season with friends and family right after Thanksgiving,” Madeline Klinger, co-owner of Benigna’s, said. “It’s such a festive evening — dazzling lights, warm food and great wine — but what really makes it special is the sense of community. Guests can use their included food voucher to support the local nonprofit food provider of their choice, which brings everyone together in the true spirit of the season.”
Local nonprofit organizations provide food. General admission ticket includes a food voucher that can be redeemed at any of the participating nonprofit organizations, which also benefit from the Lighting of the Vineyard.
“At the end of the evening, Benigna’s Creek will be making a donation to each organization based on the number of vouchers redeemed,” Klinger said.
o Cost: General admission is $10 (Includes wine tasting and food voucher). Designated Driver is $5 (Wine tasting and food voucher not included). Children under 12 are free (Food voucher not included).
o Vendors onsite: Nonprofit organizations selling snacks and food.
o Info: www.bcwinery.com or 570-4253090
Photo provided
See grape vineyards in a whole new light at the Lighting of the Vineyard at Benigna’s Creek Vineyard & Winery, in Klingerstown.
Photo provided Santa Claus is onsite every night during the Lighting of the Vineyard at Benigna’s Creek Vineyard & Winery, in Klingerstown.
HERSHEYPARK CHRISTMAS CANDYLANE
o Where: Hersheypark, 100 Hersheypark Dr., Hershey.
o When: Select dates from Nov. 14 to Jan. 4, 2026.
o Unique highlights: Family rides and seven select coasters, more than 5 million twinkling lights decking the 121acre amusement park, plus a new light display on the park’s newest attraction, Twizzlers Twisted Gravity.
See Santa and all nine of his reindeer up close in the Mary N. Bright Airfield, enjoy a new holiday show inside the heated Music Box Theatre, check out TREEville trail with more than 20 trees decorated to themes only seen in The Sweetest Place On Earth, and Sweet Greets with the Hershey Characters in their coziest winter apparel.
“Hersheypark is one of the few remaining places along the East Coast where you can see holiday lights from roller coasters, weather permitting,” Amanda Polyak, senior manager of public relations at Hershey Entertainment & Resorts, said.
A favorite Noel light show also returns this holiday season, featuring dancing lights choreographed to Christmas music that glisten off of Spring Creek, Polyak said. The show starts nightly at 5 p.m. and runs every 15 minutes in The Hollow region.
o Cost: Ticket prices are being determined, but will be lower than $50.
o Info: https://www.hersheypark.com/plan-your-visit/christmas-candylane
HERSHEY SWEET LIGHTS
o When: Nov. 14, 2025 – Jan. 4, 2026.
o Where: 1183 Sandbeach Road, Hershey.
“Guests can also take a ride on our steam-powered train to see the 12 Days of Christmas and additional areas completely blanketed with lights, or take in the lights from above on the Ferris Wheel and Kissing Tower, the tallest point in Hershey.”
just down the road from Hersheypark.
o Cost: $29.99 - $42.99.
o Unique highlights: “Hershey Sweet Lights is our drivethrough experience, featuring two miles of fields and wooded trails decorated with nearly 600 illuminated, animated displays, including ‘The 12 Days of Christmas,’ an Enchanted Forest and Hersheypark rides, as well as a Northern Lights area,” Polyak said. It is located
o Info: https://www.hersheypark.com/plan-your-visit/christmas-candylane
Photo provided
A vehicle drives through the colorful displays at Hershey’s Sweet Lights.
Photo provided Guests can visit
all nine of Santa’s reindeer at the Mary N. Bright Airfield during Hersheypark’s Christmas Candylane.
CLINTON COUNTY CHRISTMAS
o When: Weekends, Dec. 5–7, Dec. 12–14, Dec. 19–21, 5:30 –9 p.m.
o Where: Clinton County Fairgrounds, 98 Racetrack Road, Mill Hall.
o Unique highlights: People enjoy the fact that they don’t have to leave their vehicles, Izzy Walker, vice president of the Clinton County Junior Fair Board, said. The 5- to 10-minute drivethrough includes large and small inflatables, decorated Christmas trees and a very, very large Frosty.
“We have a scavenger hunt for the kiddos,” Walker said. “They can look for specific decorations and inflatables and check them off as they drive through.”
o Cost: $10 per vehicle.
o Vendors onsite: Hot cocoa for $1/cup will be available.
o Info: “ClintonCounty Junior Fair Board” (Note: ClintonCounty is one word on the board’s Facebook page).
Photo provided
A super big Frosty is one of the attractions at the Clinton County Christmas drive-through, at the Clinton County Fairgrounds.
CARAVAN OF LIGHTS, WATSONTOWN
o When: Sunday, Dec. 7, lineup at 5:30 p.m.
o Where: Meet at Luzerne County Community College, 1100 Main St., Watsontown. The parade will make its way down Main Street, turn on 10th, then Elm Street to Santa’s House at Canal Street Park.
o Unique highlights: Last year more than 20 groups and businesses decked their vehicles with lights and joined in the parade. Organizers from the Two Sisters Toy Drive walk along collecting donations of toys for area children.
“This year, the Watsontown Haunted Haunt bought a toy train set and will hand out tickets to all the kids, so one lucky winner that evening will win a train set,” Wendy Shoemaker, organizer of the parade, said.
The Warrior Run Fire Department will bring Santa Claus in on one of its engines, playing Christmas music while rolling down the street. Sponsored by the Watsontown Area Business Association, the Caravan of Lights is a
o When: Sat., Nov. 22, 1–8 p.m.
THARPTOWN CHRISTMAS DISPLAY
o Where: 713 Center St., Coal Township (downtown Tharptown).
o Unique highlights: People love the nostalgia of Tharptown’s display, with hundreds of wooden decorations, Christmas blow molds and costumed characters.
“Many families return year after year to share the tradition with their children and grandchildren,” Kelsee Dunn, whose family organizes the event, said.
Enjoy a candy cane hunt, character meet-and-greets, Santa visits, the signature lighting ceremony at 6 p.m. and
a variety of other festive activities.
“Two of our biggest highlights this year are brand-new additions: Our first-ever ‘Run Run Rudolph’ 5K, kicking off the day at 9 a.m., and a special appearance by Buzz McCallister from ‘Home Alone,’ who will be doing meetand-greets from 2 to 7 p.m.,” Dunn said.
o Cost: Free admission.
o Vendors: Plenty of food trucks and artisan craft vendors to explore as guests enjoy the holiday magic, Dunn said.
o Info: “Tharptown Christmas Display” on Facebook.
Photo provided
A signature decoration at the Tharptown Christmas Display is the group of blow mold choir singers.
Photo provided
Heath’s Gym Dance Crew entertains visitors at the Tharptown Christmas Display, near Shamokin.
CROSSROADS NAZARENE CHURCH LIGHT SHOW
o When: 5–10 p.m. nightly from Friday, Nov. 28 – Wednesday, Dec. 31.
o Where: Crossroads Nazarene Church, 71 Nazarene Ln., Milton.
o Unique highlights: A 10- to 15-minute show of lights set to Christmas music, viewed from the comfort of your own car, repeating throughout the evening. Simply pull into the church parking lot and tune to 102.1 FM.
“People love it,” Alicia Engle, children’s pastor, said. “It’s family-oriented. It’s a highlight for some of our people during the Christmas season.”
o Cost: Free.
o Info: “Crossroads Nazarene Church” on Facebook
Ornaments, Villages, Wreaths, Bouquets, Arrangements
Photo provided
A fast-moving light show set to Christmas music has been entertaining visitors to the Crossroads Church of the Nazarene, in Milton, for several years.
VALLEY OF LIGHTS, LITTLE MEXICO CAMPGROUND
o When: Nov. 28 – Dec. 31 (Closed Christmas Day).
o Where: Little Mexico Campground, 1640 Little Mexico Road, Winfield.
o Unique highlights: Craft making, letters to Santa, ceramics, snacks and drinks on Saturdays.
“We’re located down in a valley, which makes evenings really dark,” Missy Loy, co-owner of Little Mexico Campground, said. “It kind of makes the lights stand out a little more.”
The Valley of Lights is decorated each year by dedicated volunteers who are filled with the Christmas spirit, she said.
“I just like the fact that the display makes people smile,” Loy said. “It brings people a lot of joy.”
o Cost: Vehicles for 1-7 people $15, vehicles for 8–15 people $20.
o Info: www.littlemexico.net or 570-374-9742.
Photo provided
A lighted archway beckons visitors to Little Mexico Campground’s Valley of Lights, in Winfield.
Photo provided
One of the many displays at Little Mexico Campground’s Valley of Lights, in Winfield.
Nov. 16
Holiday events around Inside PA
HOLIDAY ARTISAN MARKET
Lewisburg YMCA
More than 50 vendors will be offering a wide variety of handmade and carefully curated goods just in time for the holiday season. It’s the perfect chance to buy unique gifts for everyone special.
For more information: gsvymca.org/lewisburg-ymca
Nov. 16
HOLIDAY CRAFT AND VENDOR SHOW
The Venue at Liberty Valley, Danville
Shop handcrafted gifts, seasonal décor, and goodies from amazing local makers, direct sales vendors, and food vendors. Enjoy delicious food and warm drinks while you browse! Perfect for holiday shopping, family fun, and supporting small businesses. Free admission.
For more information: Visit venuelibertyvalley.com
Nov. 22
THARPTOWN CHRISTMAS DISPLAY OPENING DAY FESTIVAL
713 Center St., Coal Township
Kick off the holiday season with us at our magical Opening Day Festival — a cherished tradition full of fun, wonder, and festive surprises for the whole family!
Meet your favorite Christmas characters. Join the Candy Cane Hunt for sweet holiday fun. Shop local with craft and food vendors. Enjoy a visit (and photos) with Santa Claus. Watch the town sparkle during our holiday lighting display. New surprises are also in store.
For more information: Visit Tharptown Christmas Display on Facebook.
Nov. 22
JOLLY JAMBOREE
Elysburg Fire Department
Holiday fun for the whole family from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
For more information: Find Jolly Jamboree on Facebook.
Nov. 27
TURKEY TROT
131 N. 5th St., Mifflinburg
Come celebrate Thanksgiving with your family and
friends by running the Mifflinburg Turkey Trot 5K and Fun Run. Those who register before Nov. 27 will pay $25, with day-of registration at $30. The Fun Run will be held directly after the Turkey Trot and costs $5. This fun 5K race directly benefits the Mifflinburg High School Boys Lacrosse Team.
For more information: Visit Mifflinburg Turkey Trot on Facebook.
Nov. 30
9TH ANNUAL HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIR
Whispering Oaks Vineyard, Sunbury
Browse a unique selection of handcrafted art, photography, woodwork, jewelry, soaps, lotions, candles, wine accessories and more from noon to 4 p.m. Every item is created and sold by the artists and crafters themselves! Enjoy Whispering Oaks wines, Pennsylvania craft beer, canned cocktails and soda while you shop. The vineyard will be filled with endless Christmas carols to get you into the holiday spirit.
For more information: Visit whisperingoaksvineyardpa.com.
Dec. 5
HOLIDAY ON BROADWAY
Broadway Street, Milton
The event, 5 to 10 p.m., includes a tree-lighting ceremony, Santa toy run and photo ops, craft and food vendors, games and live music and entertainment.
For more information: Search Holiday on Broadway
on Facebook.
Dec. 5-6
3RD ANNUAL WATSONTOWN
WINTER WONDERLAND
Canal Street, Watsontown
This event will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. on Dec. 5 and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Dec. 6. There will be food trucks, vendors and libations.
For more information: Visit Watsontown Winter Wonderland on Facebook.
Dec. 6
A VERY VINTAGE CHRISTMAS
Lewisburg Antique Malls
One special day, three malls, and all the vintage holiday magic. Attendees will enjoy refreshments and cookies, special sales from assorted vendors, raffle prizes and more.
For more information: Visit Silver Moon Antique Malls on Facebook.
Dec. 11-13
CHRISTKINDL
Mifflinburg
Mifflinburg’s version of an authentic Christmas Market, inspired by the 700-year-old traditional German Christkindl Markt, or Christ Child Market, is a festive event prepared by the town’s churches, organizations, schools and residents.
For three days, Mifflinburg’s Market Street, between 4th and 6th streets, which is surrounded by churches, is lined with festive outdoor huts featuring unique handmade crafts and traditional Christkindl treats. Catch the spirit of the season as glorious holiday music is performed on the outdoor stage and in the churches. It is truly a time for the entire family.
For more information: Visit oldchristkindl.com.
Photo provided
C & K Unique Creations sells whimsical gnomes at the Christkindl Market, in Mifflinburg.
Photo provided Reece Parrish cuddles a stuffie at Watsontown Winter Wonderland.
