WILKES-BARRE, Pa. — The bank on West Market Street in Downtown Wilkes-Barre hosted the holiday vendor market to kick off the holiday season and celebrate small business Saturday. People enjoyed the songs of carolers as they shopped from more than 25 different small businesses the market had to offer.
"These business owners are resilient. They've been through some of the worst times like with the COVID-19 pandemic so having days like this is crucial it's right before the holiday season." Said Shelby Gushka, Marketing & Events Coordinator for the Diamond City Partnership.
The holiday vendor market, sponsored by PPL Electric, UGI and PNC Bank gives people the opportunity to snag Christmas gifts and decorations organizers say you can't find anywhere else.
"It's definitely helpful, and you'll find more unique things. Things that are handmade. Things that came from somebody's imagination, and a lot of times you can find better things from the local people too." Said Nick Freed, the owner of Inside Out Cookie Company.
The holiday market in Downtown Wilke-Barre has everything from handmade jewelry to gourmet popcorn.
"When you purchase a locally made item it means so much more. There was so much more thought and effort put into it then shopping at these big box stores." Said Gushka.
Maria Sullivan of Wilkes-Barre said the holiday vendor market is a yearly holiday tradition for her and her family. "I love all the different kinds of gifts that you can get. Things that you can't find online you know. They have that personal touch."
The holiday market even had a photo station for families to take free photos with Santa Claus.