Bring on the decorations – lights, inflatables, greens, candles! This year West Ward is going to have its first (ever?) Holiday Decorating Contest.

Judges will be out on Dec. 19 to award prizes for Best Block, Brightest House, Most Colorful, Most Creative, Best Business, and Best in Show. Sign-up by Dec. 13 to be included.

Check out the contestant map HERE and see what your neighbors have been up to!

This is open to all houses and businesses in the West Ward, which is Sixth to 15th Streets and Elm to Jackson Streets.

What holiday would be complete without a wreath for your door. Join us at noon on Dec. 13, at Centennial Park, 12th & Ferry streets to pick-up a Grab & Go Wreath Decorating Kit. You’ll receive your own fresh greens wreath, a handmade bow, decorations, and supplies to create your wreath back at home.

Wreath building kits are free, but you must register in advance. Sign-up HERE.

Please purchase 1 ticket per household. If you’re ordering tickets for neighbors or friends, please add 1 additional ticket per household.

Masks must be worn for kit pick-up.

Peace & Light Night is returning for its fifth year. This West Ward tradition encourages the community to place luminaria outside their homes and businesses – lights in solidarity, unity, peace, community, remembrance and pride.

We encourage neighbors to light their luminaries from 6-8 p.m. on Dec. 19.

Luminary kits will again be available for neighbors. Pick one up at:

>>> Starting Friday afternoon, Dec. 11th: Carrie’s Smoke Shop, 1303 Northampton Street
>>> Friday & Saturday, Dec. 11th & 12th, 6-9pm: U Launder It 2, 320 South 10th Street
>>> Sunday, Dec. 13th, 12Noon-3pm: Centennial Park, 12th & Ferry Streets
>>> Monday, Dec. 14th, 3-5pm: U Launder It 2, 320 South 10th Street
>>> Thursday, Dec. 17, 7-9pm: U Launder It 2, 320 South 10th Street
>>> Friday, Dec. 18th, 4-6pm: U Launder It 2, 320 South 10th Street

Thank you to Easton business owner and West Ward resident, Matt Laska of Knecht: Parts & Assembly for a special laser cut bag this year!

You can also make your own with a white paper sandwich bag, a little sand or kitty litter in the bottom, and a tea light or battery-operated candle inside. 

That night plan to take a stroll through the streets to see all the luminaries, beautifully decorated homes, and a few surprises around the neighborhood. You might even spot Santa himself out and about!

Plan to stop by:

Apostolic Refuge Temple, 1151 Northampton Street: Carolers and sweet treats!

Centennial Park, 12th & Ferry Streets: Special peace-themed book from Rotary Club of Easton; Holiday activity for the kiddos from the YMCA Of Easton, Phillipsburg and Vicinity – PA; Candy canes and coloring pages from Fidelity Bank’s “Random Acts of Kindness” initiative; Performances by the Big Easy Easton Brass Band from 7-7:45pm

Easton Area Community Center, 901 Washington Street: Grab a free hot dog and hot chocolate from YumYums food truck; Sweet treats from Bridge Community Church

House Decorating Contest: Around town. Check out the map of contestants HERE.

Paxinosa Elementary, 1221 Northampton Street: Stop by for music, lights, sweets, and a take home activity for the kiddos from LIFE Church

Around the Neighborhood: Santa! Keep your eyes peeled for the man himself from 6:30-7:30pm.