Honesdale kicks off shopping season with 'Winter Wonderland'

The Greater Honesdale Partnership celebrates the glories of Main Street USA with its “Winter Wonderland" kickoff on Thanksgiving weekend: Friday, Nov. 29, and Saturday, Nov. 30.

Indoor holiday vendor markets are a new addition this year. Vendors applications are available at visithonesdalepa.com. Vendors will sell their wares inside Honesdale Community Church and on Main Street from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day.

Local businesses are famous for their hospitality and knowledgeable staffs, and offer a range of products from gifts to clothing.

Friday evening, which brings the annual Santa Parade, is the highlight of the weekend. The parade starts at 6 p.m. at the Top-Notch parking lot on 4th Street, goes up Main Street, turns right on 10th Street, and proceeds to Central Park. For applications to participate, email ghp@visithonesdalepa.com.

The ceremony immediately after the parade includes the lighting of the tree in the center of the park and of the community's beloved star on Irving Cliff -- all accompanied by candlelight and the singing of carols. Radio 95.3 DNH & Classic Hits 105.3 will lead the festivities.

Small Business Saturday

Nov. 30 is Small Business Saturday, a day to celebrate and support small businesses and all they do for their communities. Join the Small Business Administration and organizations across the country by shopping at a small business that day.

Honesdale's downtown trolley will transport shoppers so that they won’t have to carry their bags too far. One of the locations is the Honesdale Community Church, with others still to be determined.

The Stourbridge Line rail excursions will be offering Santa Express rides Friday through Sunday and every weekend until Christmas. Schedule a special train for your school or organization by visiting thestourbridgeline.net or calling 570-470-2697.