As the crisp winter air sweeps across Greene County, the arrival of Christmas is heralded by a dazzling array of festive sights that fill the community with holiday cheer. Strings of twinkling lights adorn the quaint downtown streets, their soft glow casting a warm, magical ambiance over the historic buildings and shops. Locals and visitors alike gather to marvel at the stunning light displays, which transform the town into a veritable winter wonderland. And the sounds of lively Christmas parades echo through the streets, with colorful floats, marching bands, and the jolly laughter of onlookers creating a palpable sense of seasonal revelry.
At the heart of it all is the ever-present figure of St. Nick himself, waving merrily from atop a float or posing for photos with delighted children, his rosy cheeks and genuine smile embodying the very spirit of the holidays. Amidst the hustle and bustle of last-minute shopping and party planning, taking a break to immerse oneself in these wholesome seasonal celebrations offers families a chance to slow down, reconnect, and soak in the magic that makes this time of year so special.
From the twinkling lights to the joyful parades, the festive sights of Greene County provide the perfect antidote to the stresses of modern life, reminding all who experience them of the true meaning of Christmas.
Waynesburg’s Christmas on High Street
The annual Waynesburg holiday celebration on Saturday, November 30th (NEW DATE!) is a highly anticipated event that marks the start of the bustling shopping season in the charming downtown district. As families and friends gather to kickoff the festive season, they are greeted with a delightful array of activities and entertainment catered to all ages.
Children delight in riding through the streets on colorful, horse-drawn wagons, giggling as they craft their own ornaments, and posing for whimsical caricature portraits. A living Nativity scene provides a serene and reverent atmosphere for visitors to pause and reflect on the true meaning of the holidays.
However, the undisputed highlight of the celebration is the dazzling tree lighting ceremony held on the steps of the historic courthouse at 6pm. As the crowd counts down, the towering evergreen illuminates the square in a brilliant glow, ushering in the magic of the season.
The festivities reach a crescendo with a spectacular fireworks display at 8pm, painting the night sky in a vibrant kaleidoscope of color and light to conclude the enchanting Waynesburg holiday celebration in truly grand fashion.
Holiday Open House & Marketplace
Join Thistlethwaite Vineyards for their annual Holiday Open House and Marketplace on Sunday, December 1st, from 1 to 4 pm. Kick off the holiday season with an afternoon of shopping for unique gifts from local vendors, indulging in delicious food and baked goods, and browsing wine baskets. Don’t miss out on the exciting door prizes and raffle baskets filled with amazing treats and surprises.
Holiday Brass Section
On Tuesday, December 3rd, Waynesburg University will conclude its 175th anniversary celebrations with a Holiday Brass Spectacular featuring the renowned Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra Brass Section. Known for their brilliance, refinement, and incredible power, the orchestra will treat audiences to a festive holiday performance showcasing traditional Baroque favorites as well as new arrangements of cherished seasonal tunes.
Holiday Open House
The Eva K. Bowlby Public Library is thrilled to invite the community to its annual Holiday Open House on Wednesday, December 4th. This enchanting event will be filled with the sights, sounds, and flavors of the season, creating a truly magical atmosphere for all who attend. The little ones can also look forward to immersing themselves in a variety of enchanting, Christmas-themed activities and crafts designed to spark their creativity and imagination.
Christmas Arts & Craft Show
The Christmas Arts & Crafts Show at the EQT REC Center is a must-visit holiday event that takes place over the course of three magical days, from December 6th through December 8th, 2024. As you step through the doors, you’ll be greeted by the warm, festive atmosphere and the myriad of unique vendors showcasing their handcrafted wares.
Waynesburg Christmas Parade
The quaint town of Waynesburg, nestled in the heart of Greene County, will come alive with the sights and sounds of the holiday season on Saturday, December 7th as the Greene County Chamber of Commerce hosts its annual Christmas Parade. Locals and visitors alike will gather along the charming downtown streets to witness this delightful celebration, which promises to transport spectators into the magic of Christmas.
The parade will feature an array of captivating sights, from the thunderous beats of marching bands filling the crisp air, to the regal presence of local pageant queens waving gracefully from decorated floats. Gleaming fire trucks will proudly rumble down the street, their lights flashing in time with the jolly music, followed by whimsical, imaginatively-designed floats crafted by community organizations.
And when the parade reaches its climactic conclusion, the guest of honor himself will make a grand entrance – Santa Claus, ushering in the official start of the Christmas season and filling every heart with holiday cheer. This beloved annual event is a cherished tradition that brings the Waynesburg community together to welcome the most wonderful time of the year in truly enchanting fashion.
Christmas Open House
The Greene County Historical Society will be hosting its highly anticipated annual Christmas Open House over the course of two festive days, December 7th and 8th. Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the enchanting holiday atmosphere from noon to 5pm each day, as the historical society’s halls are decked with seasonal décor and brimming with an array of enchanting activities and entertainment.
Christmas Concert
Waynesburg University’s Lamplighter Choir and Symphonic Band will present their annual concert on Saturday, December 7th at 7:30pm in Roberts Chapel. This performance showcases the students’ hard work throughout the fall semester and offers the community an opportunity to enjoy traditional band and choir music.
Holiday Craft Blast
With the clock ticking down to Christmas, the Holiday Craft Blast provides a one-stop shopping experience that allows you to cross off your remaining gift needs while supporting the vibrant local arts community. So if you find yourself short on time but long on holiday cheer, be sure to make your way to the Greene County Fairgrounds on December 15th and let the talented vendors there help you find that perfect, personalized gift.
New Year’s Eve Party
Ring in the New Year with friends at The Denny House’s New Year’s Eve Party on Tuesday, December 31st starting at 7pm. Groove to the tunes of DJ Johnny Hartwell from 3WS Radio, toast the new year with champagne at midnight, and watch as a cascade of balloons falls from the ceiling.
