La Festa Italiana Set for Labor Day Weekend in Scranton As another summer heads for the horizon, fun seekers of all ages can still look forward to an annual treat that keeps the good vibes flowing. It’s getting to be that time for La Festa Italiana, four days of great food and lively entertainment served up in the Italian culture and spirit in Scranton, PA over Labor Day weekend. La Festa Italiana will be held Friday through Monday, Aug. 29 through Sept. 1, 2025 on Courthouse Square in the heart of downtown Scranton, PA. Hours are Friday, 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Monday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. The presenting sponsor is Lehigh Valley Hospital-Dickson City, part of Jefferson Health.The festival is an annual celebration of culture, cuisine and continuous entertainment. Admission is free. Of course, there is the food, a mouth-watering variety tempting the taste buds! Among the many culinary delights is the famous porketta sandwich prepared by the Scranton Chapter of UNICO, the national Italian-American service organization. Another hot spot – literally – is the Cappuccino Café, where you can sip a creamy cup to go with your favorite Italian pastry. In between bites, people of all ages will enjoy Italian vocalists, artists and local bands as well as dance groups performing over four days and nights on three stages. In addition, crafts, Italian-themed clothing and novelties, a Heritage Park, bocce games, bounce rides for the kids and more will be available.The Alfredo’s Main Stage opening act on Friday (Aug. 29) will feature a tribute to recently deceased Paul LaBelle, leader of the Exact Change Band. Later that evening is the popular band Picture Perfect. The lineup on Saturday (Aug. 30) features The Cameos, New Jersey’s Favorite Oldies Group, and a Billy Joel Tribute. Sunday (Aug. 31) begins with the annual Mass in Italian at 10 a.m. in the Cathedral of Saint Peter, located one block from the festival site. The Mass will also be televised live by CTV: Catholic Television of the Diocese of Scranton. The entertainment on Sunday includes a Connie Francis tribute and a Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin Tribute Show featuring Chris DiMattio and Las Vegas’ Andy DiMino with Ken McGraw’s Brass & Ivory Big Band and several special guests. On Monday (Sept. 1) there will be a 100th birthday celebration for WWII Veteran Gene “Dempsey” Passarella, maestro of his namesake Orchestra. La Festa Italiana will literally hit the ground running with the 13th Annual Captain James R. Minicozzi Memorial 5K Run and 1 Mile Fun Walk on Saturday, Aug. 30, at 10 a.m. The race is being sponsored by the Scranton Chapter of UNICO, the national Italian-American service organization, and proceeds will benefit the Boys and Girls Club of Northeastern Pennsylvania Christmas Party and college scholarships for students at Captain Minicozzi’s alma mater, West Scranton High School. To register in advance ($25) go to: runsignup.com/Minicozzi or on race day ($35) from 8 to 9:30 a.m. at corner of North Washington Avenue and Linden Street. For news and updates, including the festival entertainment schedule, visit www.lafestaitaliana.org, Facebook: La Festa Italiana di Lackawanna County, Instagram: lafestascranton.
Scranton Fringe Festival, Celebrate the Arts This Fall The Scranton Fringe Festival is a multi-day celebration of culture, creativity, and community held annually throughout venues in Scranton, Pennsylvania. Founded in 2015 and inspired by the original Edinburgh Festival Fringe in Scotland, Scranton Fringe champions bold and innovative work across genres, platforms, and perspectives. Now entering its 11th year, the Festival has become a cornerstone of the region’s cultural landscape, welcoming artists and audiences from near and far to experience original theatre, live music, film screenings, comedy, storytelling, and more in both traditional and unconventional spaces. Venues include The Ritz Theater, the Lackawanna County Children’s Library, Marywood University, AFA Gallery, and more! The 2025 Scranton Fringe Festival will take place from September 25th through October 5th, featuring over 50 productions and events throughout downtown and beyond. This year’s Festival kicks off with a free public launch party at Marywood University, highlighted by a large-scale 3D projection mapping installation on the exterior of the Rotunda. Among the many exciting works is Ulysses of Scranton, a bold new play inspired by James Joyce’s Ulysses, slated to tour to Scranton’s sister city of Ballina, Ireland, in late October. From large-scale spectacles to intimate, site-specific performances, the 2025 Festival offers something for everyone while continuing to spotlight the power of the arts to unite and inspire. For tickets and more information visit scrantonfringe.org
Mohegan Pennsylvania Debuts Rock N’ Brew Fall Festival Mohegan Pennsylvania is excited to announce an all-new fall festival is set to take place on the Racetrack on Saturday, September 13th! Rock N’ Brew Fall Festival is a 21+ event where guests can raise a glass to beer, bands, and bites. From Noon – 10:00pm, those in attendance can enjoy live entertainment headlined by Super Trans AM: The Super 70’s Concert Experience and the highly anticipated return of Separate Ways the Band! Additional highlights include the popular wiener dog and chihuahua races, stein holding competitions, and the fan-favorite NEPA Cornhole Tournament. Tickets are $7.00 and on-sale now via eGiftify. Admission includes five tasting samples. The volume at Rock N’ Brew is set to be turned up with an electrifying lineup of live entertainment that will keep the energy soaring all day and night! Kicking things off is local favorite Hangin’ With F.O.G., bringing their signature NEPA rock sound to the stage from 12:30pm – 2:00pm and again from 2:30pm – 4:00pm. Then, prepare to be transported back in time with Super Trans AM: The Super ’70s Concert Experience, one of the most innovative and immersive theme bands on the scene, performing from 5:00pm – 7:00pm. Capping off the night with a powerful finale is Separate Ways the Band, delivering the ultimate tribute to the legendary music of Journey from 8:00pm – 10:00pm. Additionally, select venues in Mohegan Pennsylvania will feature indoor evening entertainment including Gracie Jane Sinclair Duo at Embers Terrace from 6:00pm – 10:00pm, Toolshed Jack at Breakers from 8:30pm – 12:30am, and Ostrich Hat at The Hive Taphouse from 9:30pm – 12:30am. Rock N’ Brew is set to feature iconic wiener dog and chihuahua races at 2:00pm, 4:00pm, and 7:00pm. Guests can sign their fury friends up online now for a race of their choosing. Dogs will compete against other dogs of their own breed. Before each race, a special costume contest parade will occur where dog owners can dress their dogs in their best 70s or 80s rock outfit! Guests at Rock N’ Brew can dig into a mouthwatering lineup of food options. Mohegan Pennsylvania will have open-air grills blazing, serving up smoky half chickens, ribs, and sweet corn hot off the coals, along with classic favorites like German potato salad, pork and beans, and corn bread. Some of the region’s best food trucks will be on hand dishing out everything from authentic Mediterranean fare at Notis the Gyro King, to bold bites from 2 Wayz One Passion, and crispy potato pancakes from Yogi’s Potato Pancakes. Whether you’re craving classic comfort food or something new, there’s no shortage of options to satisfy every appetite. And because no fall festival is complete without a sweet treat there will be a selection of pies, strawberry shortcake, caramel apples and more to round out the experience. Additional vendors at the inaugural Rock N’ Brew Fall Festival include Kernel Moonies, Holy Smoke, Sugar Plum, Three Dog Bakery, and Mack’s Chainsaw Art. Rock N’ Brew is slated to be packed with high-energy activities and nostalgic fun for all ages! Guests can test their aim and teamwork in the NEPA Cornhole Tournaments or show off their flair in costume contests by dressing in their most iconic ’70s or ’80s rock-inspired outfits. For those with strength and stamina, the stein holding contests offer a chance to win prizes and bragging rights. The excitement continues in the game area which will feature classics like giant chess, giant Connect 4, rope toss, basketball toss, and yard pong. All guests for Rock N’ Brew must be 21 years of age or older. Guests are invited to bring their favorite chair to enjoy Rock N’ Brew in comfort in a designated seating area. For additional information, please visit moheganpa.com.
Steamtown Hot Yoga and Barre Celebrates New Location Anniversary August 23, 2025, we celebrate our one year anniversary at our new location in the Lace Village. As part of our celebration, we are offering free classes at our studio on Saturday, August 23, 2025. Please register via our app or call us at 570-941-9977 to save your spot.
Steamtown National Historical Site Hosts Arts in the Park Weekend Steamtown National Historic Site invites the public to attend Arts in the Park Weekend on Saturday, August 23, and Sunday, August 24, 2025. All programs will begin inside the newly reopened Visitor Center. A Q&A session will follow each presentation, expected to last 30 minutes to an hour. General admission to the park and event is free. The weekend precedes Railfest 2025 happening Labor Day weekend and leads into the National Park Service’s 109th birthday on Monday, August 25, honoring the agency’s legacy in preserving and interpreting America’s national treasures. Programs and Presentations: Saturday, August 23 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM – National Park Service and the Impact of the Works Progress Administration – Ranger Larry Scucci This engaging program examines the founding of the National Park Service and the Works Progress Administration’s role in promoting parks during the New Deal era. Learn how WPA artists created vibrant posters and illustrations that inspired Americans to visit their public lands and discover the legacy of these works in today’s park promotion. 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM – Railroads, Art & American Life: A Talk with J. Craig Thorpe – J. Craig Thorpe J. Craig Thorpe has specialized in railway promotional art and illustration for more than thirty years. His work has been commissioned by rail suppliers, museums, Amtrak, and historic railroads across North America. In this talk, Thorpe explores the role of art in railroad history, featuring both his own works and classic railway advertising art. His recent book Railroads, Art & American Life will be available for purchase and signing. Sunday, August 24 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM – National Park Service and the Impact of the Works Progress Administration – Ranger Bill McCarthy This engaging program examines the founding of the National Park Service and the Works Progress Administration’s role in promoting parks during the New Deal era. Learn how WPA artists created vibrant posters and illustrations that inspired Americans to visit their public lands and discover the legacy of these works in today’s park promotion. 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM – George Catlin and the Origin of the Idea of National Parks – Jan Lokuta Attorney and historian Jan Lokuta, a Wyoming Valley native, tells the story of 19th-century artist George Catlin, whose travels and paintings of Native American life inspired one of the earliest visions of preserving America’s landscapes for the public good, a concept that would evolve into the National Park idea. 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM – Creating Engine #6039: A Conversation with Mark Ciocca – Mark Ciocca Artist and educator Mark Ciocca discusses the inspiration and creative process behind his linocut and silkscreen print Engine #6039, a piece selected for the prestigious Great Wall of Honesdale public art exhibition. Ciocca shares how his work combines technical skill, historical research, and community storytelling to celebrate the legacy of Grand Trunk Western No. 6039. Arts in the Park Weekend highlights the rich intersection of art, railroad, and preservation history as it relates to Steamtown NHS and the National Park Service.
Misericordia University Celebrates 25th Anniversary of Women with Children Program Cheers to 25 Years of Empowerment at Misericordia The Ruth Matthews Bourger Women with Children Program is celebrating 25 years of transforming lives through education, support, and opportunity. Join us for the 25th Anniversary Silver SoiréeSaturday, September 13, 20255:00–10:00 PMIrem Temple Country Club Pavilion, Dallas, PA The evening will honor Sister Jean Messaros, Mr. Rob Friedman & the Friedman Family, and Mrs. Flo DePolo—key supporters of the program’s mission. Guests will enjoy a cocktail reception with live music by Tim Noble, followed by a formal dinner and dancing with WaltonEntertainment. The event also includes a tribute program celebrating our honorees and a silent auction. Black-tie optional. Tickets, ads, and sponsorships available at misericordia.edu/womenwithchildren.
Geisinger Holds Narcan Distribution Events Geisinger’s pharmacy, emergency medicine, addiction medicine and Free2BMom teams are collaborating again this year on two Narcan® (naloxone) distribution events in northeastern Pennsylvania. Geisinger personnel will hand out boxes of nasal naloxone, fentanyl and xylazine testing strips, and teach attendees how to properly use them at community resource events in Luzerne and Lackawanna counties. The Geisinger team will be joined by community health partners who will set up information tables and offer resources to those in recovery or seeking recovery. The first event will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, Aug. 29, on the lawn across from Geisinger South Wilkes-Barre’s emergency room. The hospital’s address is 25 Church St., Wilkes-Barre. The second event will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 4, in the Linden Street courtyard of Courthouse Square at 200 N. Washington Ave. in Scranton. The events are free and open to the public. No registration is required.
CHOP Hosts Feeding the Future Dinner Join CHOP Out Hunger for our Feeding the Future Dinner on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at 5:00 PM at Constantino’s, Clarks Summit, an inspiring evening dedicated to ending childhood hunger across Pennsylvania. This special night will honor community leader Ty Holmes for his outstanding dedication and service to our region. Guests will enjoy a delicious dinner, networking, and a heartfelt program featuring stories of impact. The evening will also include a raffle and learn how to support our Weekend Backpack Program, In-School Pantries, and Pop-Up Pantries, helping ensure every child has enough to eat. Learn More
Amy Bezek Photography Hosts Women’s Circle I’m opening my studio for something truly special — our first Women’s Circle led by Tiffany from La Luna Vibrations. This is a gentle and heart-centered evening of intention, movement, cacao, and sound — a space to reconnect with yourself and move without judgment. We’ll begin in circle with a warm blend of ceremonial cacao, blue lotus, rose, and bobinsana — then shift into intuitive, guided movement and close with a soothing sound bath. It’s not about dancing — it’s about dropping in, softening, and letting your body speak. No experience needed — just bring your beautiful self, a mat, a blanket, and anything to help you feel cozy for the sound bath. Register
Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders Post-Game Drone Light Show Scranton/Wilkes-Barre adds unique light show experience after game against Indianapolis The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders are excited to announce the addition of a post-game drone light show after their Saturday, August 16, game against the Indianapolis Indians. “We are thrilled to add this one-of-a-kind experience to the promotional schedule,” stated Katie Beekman, the RailRiders General Manager. “It will be the first-ever drone light show at PNC Field and we can’t wait to see the reaction of our great fans. This is such a unique event that fans definitely won’t want to miss.” The show will be coordinated and performed by Sky Elements, a nationally-renowned drone fleet. Sky Elements appeared on America’s Got Talent and performs over 750 shows each year. The RailRiders host the Pittsburgh Pirates’ top affiliate on August 16, which is also Harry Potter Night at PNC Field. Gates open at 5:00 P.M. with custom RailRiders Platform 9 3/4 socks given out to the first 1,500 fans. First pitch is slated for 6:05 and Scranton/Wilkes-Barre players will wear custom jerseys inspired by the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. After the game concludes, this 150-drone performance will begin. Purchase tickets for August 16 or any remaining RailRiders home game this season online at www.swbrailriders.com.
