Wilkes-Barre Community Raffles and Events Kick Off 2026

The Wilkes-Barre and Hanover areas are brimming with community activities as residents enjoy various events and fundraising initiatives in early January 2026. The highlight is the 12 Days of Christmas cash raffle, benefiting the Exaltation of the Holy Cross and St. Robert Bellarmine parishes. Live drawings are taking place daily on Facebook until January 5, offering participants a chance to win up to $10,500 in cash prizes. Each ticket costs $20 and was mailed to local households. Interested individuals can also purchase tickets from parishioners, online at www.exhc.org, or at the parish office during business hours. All winners will receive notification once the raffle concludes.

Additionally, the Hudson Model Railroad Club is hosting open house events on weekends from January 3-4 and January 10-11. These sessions will run from noon to 4 p.m. at their location on 97 Martin Street in Plains Township. This is a unique opportunity for families and enthusiasts to explore model railroads and connect with fellow hobbyists. More details can be found on their website, hudsonmodelrailroadclub.org.

The Wilkes-Barre Township is also promoting its 250th Commemoration Book, which can be ordered at the municipal building for $25. Residents are encouraged to make checks or money orders payable to Wilkes-Barre Township for this commemorative publication.

For those interested in daily lotteries, the St. Nicholas/St. Mary parish is selling tickets for their January 2026 raffle. Tickets are available for $5 each and feature two numbers per ticket. Participants can win by matching the 7 p.m. lottery number drawing. Tickets can be purchased at the parish office or after weekend Masses.

Looking ahead, the community is gearing up for the German Nite Celebration at St. Nicholas/St. Mary, scheduled for February 14. Tickets for this event, hosted by the parish’s Holy Name Society, are priced at $40. Further details will be announced as the date approaches, promising an enjoyable evening for attendees.

These events not only strengthen community ties but also provide residents with various opportunities for entertainment and support for local parishes.