The City of Hazleton has launched its annual Christmas Village and Santa parades, which began on December 7, 2023, at the Hazleton Art League. This festive event will occur over three Sundays, concluding on December 21, and features a variety of local vendors and artisans showcasing unique goods, including jewelry, candles, baked items, and artwork.
The Christmas Village not only provides an opportunity for holiday shopping but also allows families to interact with Santa and Mrs. Claus, who will be available for photographs following their parade through the city. Each week presents a different parade route, adding to the excitement of the event.
Local entrepreneur Samantha Kronstadt, who launched her business, Sealed With a Kiss Cupcakes, in June, expressed her enthusiasm about participating in the Christmas Village. Operating from the Kitchen Incubator, Kronstadt noted the supportive environment has been instrumental in her business development. She remarked, “You’re supporting small businesses in the community, so it’s a great way to meet the community and for the community to meet you.”
The event aims to foster community spirit and encourage support for local businesses. Hazleton residents eagerly awaited the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus, including families like Arron and Raphael Garica along with their children, who were excited to partake in the festive cheer.
Community Participation and Local Artisans
In addition to festive activities, the Christmas Village facilitates networking opportunities among local vendors. Kronstadt highlighted the importance of connecting with other community members and organizations, stating, “You learn about other events and get to meet people involved in charity work or other initiatives.” Her involvement with the Hazleton Art League has led to increased community participation, which she believes is vital for local growth.
Another vendor, Marybeth Scarcella, has been crafting knitted scarves and hats since childhood. After discovering the Christmas Village through social media, she felt a strong desire to join the event. “I wanted to be a part of the community to participate with this for the holidays,” she shared. Scarcella hopes the event continues to grow, drawing in more public participation each year.
The Christmas Village is part of the broader Hazleton for the Holidays celebration, a collaborative effort involving various organizations such as the City of Hazleton, CAN DO, the Downtown Hazleton Alliance for Progress, and the Greater Hazleton Chamber of Commerce. This partnership aims to bolster local businesses and enhance community engagement during the holiday season.
The Christmas Village will resume on December 14 and 21 from 15:00 to 19:00, providing families with ongoing opportunities to celebrate the season and support local artisans. As the event gains momentum, it promises to become a cherished tradition in Hazleton, highlighting the importance of community and local enterprise during the festive season.
