THIS WEEK: Sept. 23 to 29, 2015
Downtown Wilkes-Barre Restaurant Week. Enjoy a wide variety of cuisines at special prices through Sept. 27. Participants include Alpine Downtown Eatery, Anthracite, Barnes & Noble Cafe, Bart & Urby’s, Boscov’s, Bottlenecks Saloon, Cafe Toscana, Cheesesteak Factory, El Zocalo, Franklin’s, Frank’s Pizzeria, Hottle’s, King of Kings Gyro, Le Manhattan Bistro, Letts Eat, Mimmo’s Pizza, Oyster, Ox’s Eatery, Pete’s Middle Eastern Restaurant, Pronto Via Pizzeria, Rodano’s and Senunas’ Bar & Grill. Menus at wbrestaurantweek.com.
Fall Film Festival, 22 foreign, independent and art films. Through Oct. 8 with a post-festival film discussion 1 p.m. Oct. 9. Dietrich Theater, 60 E. Tioga St., Tunkhannock. For a schedule of movie offerings log onto dietrichtheater.com or 570-996-1500.
A Day Without a Mexican, the 2004 mockumentary which depicts what would happen if the entire U.S. Mexican population suddenly disappeared. Shown as part of the fifth annual King’s College Hispanic Film Festival. Burke Auditorium, McGowan School of Business, West Union and North River streets, Wilkes-Barre. 7 p.m. Sept. 23. Free. 570-208-8021.
A War in Letters, a glimpse into the communications between a U.S. marine and his wife during World War II just before the battle of Iwo Jima, given by their daughter Mary Beth Kennedy Voda who shares their letters. Irem Clubhouse, 64 Ridgway Drive, Dallas. 2 p.m. Sept. 24. Free. Reservations: 570-675-1866.
Cheers for Beer, a session with beer writer, home brewer and blogger Derek Warren who advises on making your own craft beer. West Pittston Library, 200 Exeter Ave. 6:30 p.m. Sept. 24. Age 21 and older. 570-654-9847.
Interesting Facts Concerning the Geography, Genealogy and Geology of Kingston, a talk by historian Matt Schooley at the meeting of the Kingston Historical Society. Kingston Municipal Building, 500 Wyoming Ave. 7 p.m. Sept. 24. 570-287-4603.
Films with a Local Touch, a screening of “Miracle of the Bells” (1948) starring Frank Sinatra and based on the story of a Glen Lyon actress. Osterhout Free Library, 71 S. Franklin St., Wilkes-Barre. 2 p.m. Sept. 25. Free with refreshments. 570-823-0156.
Breakfast at Tiffany’s Gala, the annual fundraiser for the Osterhout Free Library with open bar, dinner, silent auction, dancing under the patio tent to the Deja Groove Party Band. Raffle prizes include a $4,000 New York City Getaway. Westmoreland Club, 59 S. Franklin St., Wilkes-Barre. 6 p.m. Sept. 25. $150. 570-823-0156 or osterhout.lib.pa.us.
Horror Hall, a walk-through haunted Halloween attraction full of chills and thrills, high-impact scares, strobe lights and theatrical fog. Tilbury Volunteer Fire and Rescue Station, 11 E. Poplar St., Nanticoke. Sept. 25 to Oct. 31 : 6 p.m. to midnight Fridays and Saturdays; 6 to 10 p.m. Sunday. $13. Info at horrorhall.com.
Ghost Walks in Old Mauch Chunk, a one-mile, lantern-lighted tour to hear tales of lore, ghoulish encounters and histories of buildings along Broadway, led by a costumed storyteller. Meet at the Inn at Jim Thorpe, 24 Broadway. Sept. 25 through October 31: 7 and 8:30 p.m. Fridays; 7, 7:15, 8:30 and 8:45 p.m. Saturdays; 7 p.m. Sundays. $12, $6 children. Reservations: 570-325-2346.
Fall Intertribal Pow Wow, the 11th annual event with Native American dancing, drumming and storytelling along with a chili contest, camping and vendors of beadwork, leatherwork, jewelry and blankets. Noxen Fire Company, 3493 Stull Road, Noxen. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sept. 26; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 27 with Grand Entry in full regalia at noon each day. Free. 570-947-2097.
Carbon County Oktoberfest, with German-style food, plenty of craft beers, Galen Glen wine and entertainment by the Schutzingiggles Oompah Band, Scott Marshall with Hillbilly Soul, Sterling Koch Band, This Way to the Egress and more. Franklin Township Fire Department, 2440 Fairyland Road, Lehighton. 3 to 10 p.m. Sept. 25; noon to 10 p.m. Sept. 26. $5; $35 for beer drinkers; $55 for beer and cigar enthusiasts. 484-357-6549.
Bloomsburg Fair, the 159th edition of one of the largest fairs on the East Coast with a midway of rides, games and vendors, agricultural and horticultural exhibits, grandstand shows, Championship Figure 8 Racing, Full-Pull Tractor and Truck Pulling, demolition derby, tours of the historic Barton House, Sky Ride, helicopter rides and more. Bloomsburg Fairgrounds, 620 W. Third St. Opens Sept. 25 with a Preview Day beginning at 3:30 p.m. Continues 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sept. 26 to Oct. 3. $8; $5 parking. 570-784-4949.
AACA Car and Bike Cruise. Anything with wheels is welcome. Public Square, Wilkes-Barre. 6 to 11 p.m. Sept. 25 with awards at 9 p.m.
University for a Day, a day of lectures on thought-provoking topics including “Remember That Old New York Was Once New Amsterdam: The Dutch Roots of American Pluralism,” “The Law of the Land: A Grand Tour of Our Constitutional Republic,” “Wright Spaces: Citizenship Learning in Liquid Times” and “Suis-Je Charlie? The Rhetoric of Solidarity in Civic Responses to 21st Century Terrorism.” Pearn Auditorium, Brennan Hall, 320 Madison Ave., University of Scranton. 8:45 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. Sept. 26. $25 includes lunch and a reception. Registration: 570-941-6206.
Steamtown National Historic Site will waive its entrance fee in honor of National Public Lands Day. 300 Cliff St., Scranton. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 26. 570-340-5200.
Harvest Festival, the fifth annual event with animal presenters, arts and crafts, hands-on activities, conservation exhibits, live music, local foods, old-time activities and more. Pocono Environmental Education Center, 538 Emery Road, Dingmans Ferry. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sept. 26. $5 per car. 570-828-2319.
One More Row, a knit-and-crochet group for all ages. Osterhout Free Library, 71 S. Franklin St., Wilkes-Barre. 10:30 a.m. to noon Sept. 26. 570-823-0156.
Grey Towers Open House, a fee-free day to mark Community Appreciation Day and National Public Lands Day with mansion tours, visiting U.S. Forest Service dignitaries, music by Poison Love, magic show, children’s programs, exhibits and an ice-cream social reminiscent of the ones hosted by former resident Governor Gifford Pinchot. Grey Towers National Historic Landmark, 122 Old Owego Turnpike, Milford. Sept. 26, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. with ice-cream social 2 to 4 p.m. 570-296-9630.
Wine Land Festival, with sampling of more than 100 vintages from Pennsylvania wineries along with live entertainment, food vendors, wine school and more. Pavilion at Montage Mountain, 1000 Montage Mountain Road, Scranton. Noon to 5 p.m. Sept. 26. $18 advance, $25 at the door, $10 designated drivers. 800-745-3000.
Everywhere the Glint of Gold, a talk on the treasures from the tomb of Tutankhamen with Stephen Phillips of the UPenn Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology. West Pittston Library, 200 Exeter Ave. 1 p.m. Sept. 26. 570-654-9847.
Contra Dance, with music by Poison Love. Beginners welcome; lessons provided. The Cooperage, 1030 Main St., Honesdale. 7:30 to 10 p.m. Sept. 26. $10 suggested donation. 570-253-2020.
Car and Truck Show, the fourth annual event sponsored by the Dallas High School Economics Club. Dallas High School parking lot, 2000 Conyngham Ave. Sept. 27 with registration 9 a.m. to noon, show beginning at noon and awards at 3 p.m. With food, beverages and a craft show.
It’s All About Me Pink Tea, the fifth annual fundraiser for Candy’s Place: A Cancer Wellness Center. With a cooking show, luncheon, chocolate presentation, raffle baskets, vendors and more. The Woodlands Inn & Resort, 1073 Route 315, Plains Township. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 27. $35. Reservations: 570-714-8800.
Ukrainian Food Festival, with homemade pierogies, holupki, kapusta, kielbasa, haluski and desserts. St. Michael’s Ukrainian Orthodox Church, 540 N. Main Ave., Scranton. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 27. 570-961-1795.
Victorian House and Garden Tour, explorations of 20 historic homes along Broadway and West Broadway in Jim Thorpe. Noon to 5 p.m. Sept. 27. $20. Tickets available at the train station, 1 Susquehanna St., Jim Thorpe. 570-325-8485.
Forty Fort Meeting House Tours. Explore the 1807 historic religious edifice with its original box pews and elevated pulpit. 20 River St., Forty Fort. 1 to 3 p.m. Sundays through Oct. 4. $2. 570-287-5214.
Denison House Tours, guided walks through the historic 1790 property including the two-story interior and yard. Nathan Denison House, 35 Denison St., Forty Fort. 1 to 4 p.m. Sept. 27. $5, $3 children. 570-288-1044.
Civil War Era Music, performed by Commonwealth speaker Thomas Jolin on hammered dulcimer, button accordion, harmonica and banjo. Sponsored by the Laflin Public Library at St. Maria Goretti Banquet Hall, 42 Redwood Drive, Laflin. 2 p.m. Sept. 27. Free. 570-654-3323.
Sunday at the Circle, a celebration of the Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival with musician Kathy Wang from Beijing and paper artist Hong Yu Zhao along with refreshments including the traditional mooncakes. Wyoming Valley Art League, Rear 130 S. Franklin St., Wilkes-Barre. 4 p.m. Sept. 27. Free but donations appreciated. 570-288-1020.
Child Abuse Prevention, a lecture by attorney Joseph McGettigan, lead prosecutor of the Jerry Sandusky trial, and child-rights expert Heather Hulse. Burke Auditorium, McGowan School of Business, West Union and North River streets, King’s College, Wilkes-Barre. 7 p.m. Sept. 29. Free. 570-208-5958.
History of the Pittston Area, a talk by Jim MacFarland of the Greater Pittston Historical Society on Pittston’s early settlers from New England, its part in the American Revolutionary War, its ties to the garment industry, the growth of the coal and railroad industries and more. Sponsored by the Frances Dorrance Chapter of the Society for Pennsylvania Archaeology at the Duryea Municipal Building, 315 Main St. 7 to 9 p.m. Sept. 29. Free. 570-842-2708.
FUTURE
Crash, the Academy Award-winning ensemble drama about racial and social tensions in Los Angeles. Part of the fifth annual King’s College Hispanic Film Festival. Burke Auditorium, McGowan School of Business, West Union and North River streets, King’s College, Wilkes-Barre. 7 p.m. Sept. 30. Free. 570-208-8021.
Encounters with Dorothy Day, a talk on the 1900s human-rights activist by Robert Ellsberg who edited her published diaries and letters. Brennan Hall, 320 Madison Ave., University of Scranton. 7 p.m. Sept. 30. Free. 570-941-6631.
Fall Film and Discussion Series, with screenings of movies with a local connection including “The Adventures of Robin Hood,” “The Best Man,” “Small Time Crooks,” “Sneakers” and “Miracle of the Bells.” Offered by Penn State Wilkes-Barre as a personal enrichment course with instructor Bill Bachman. Movies 14, 24 E. Northampton St., Wilkes-Barre. 7 p.m. Thursdays from Oct. 1 to 29. $40 for series. Registration at wb.psu.edu/ce.
Scranton Fringe Festival, a performing arts event with theater, music, comedy, dance and more in venues throughout downtown Scranton including the Leonard Theater, 335 Adams Ave.; Artists for Art Gallery, 514 Lackawanna Ave., Ale Mary’s, 126 Franklin Ave. and many more. Oct. 1 to 4. Details and schedule at scrantonfringe.org.
Discover Hypnosis for Weight Loss, Personal Goals and Fun, a talk by Chris Halbohm, director of the Kingston-Keystone Hypnosis Institute and Weight Loss Center. Osterhout Free Library, 71 S. Franklin St., Wilkes-Barre. 6 to 7:30 p.m. Oct. 1. 570-823-0156.
Cooking Demonstration. Learn to prepare pumpkin bisque, pecan-crusted chicken with apple stuffing and caramel galette for dessert. Optional wine pairings with each course. Irem Temple Clubhouse, 64 Ridgway Drive, Dallas. 6 to 8 p.m. Oct. 1. $30; $37 with wine. Reservations: 570-675-1134.
Coal Cracker Cruisers Halloween Car Cruise, with food, music, door prizes, raffles and trophies. Advance Auto Parts, 161 Brooklyn St., Carbondale. 5 to 8 p.m. Oct. 2. 570-876-4034.
Celebrating Our Present, Understanding Our Past, a discussion on Carpatho-Rusyn history, traditions and life in the northern anthracite coal fields of Pennsylvania. St. Michael the Archangel Byzantine Catholic Church, 205 N. Main St., Pittston. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oct. 3. With refreshments and a light lunch along with tours of the church. Free. Registration: 570-654-4564 or stmichaelsbcc@outlook.com.
Fall Foliage Weekends, with arts and crafts, music, food, children’s activities and special events. Downtown Jim Thorpe. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays from Oct. 3 to 18. 570-325-8485.
Quilt and Artisan Show, with handmade quilts, fine art and unique crafts, lunch menu, wine tasting, chocolate sampling and a quilt raffle. Triton Hose Company, 116 W. Tioga St., Tunkhannock. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 3. Free. 570-836-2441.
Hawley Harvest Hoedown, the annual street festival with arts vendors, food, live music, farmers market, hayrides, children’s games, cider tastings, brews, a folk-music open mic and family fun. Downtown Hawley. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 3. 570-226-4064.
Train Excursion, from Scranton to Gouldsboro. Steamtown National Historic Site, 300 Cliff Ave., Scranton. Oct. 3 departing at 11 a.m. and returning at 3 p.m. $34, $29 seniors, $22 children. Reservations: 570-340-5204.
The Underground Railroad in Quilts? A presentation on one of the mysteries of the Civil War period: whether escaped slaves used quilts as signals to help their escape. Dietrich Theater, 60 E. Tioga St., Tunkhannock. 11 a.m. Oct. 3. Free. 570-996-1500.
Stitched, a documentary following three competitive art quilters as they prepare to compete in the nation’s largest quilt show. Dietrich Theater, 60 E. Tioga St., Tunkhannock. 1 p.m. Oct. 3. Free. 570-996-1500.
Forty Fort Cemetery Tours, beginning with a brief pre-tour talk in the Forty Fort Meeting House, 20 River St. 1 p.m. Oct. 3, 10 and 11. $10, $5 children. 570-287-5214.
Ghost Tours of the Old Jail Museum, Halloween chills at the historic 1871 building at 128 W. Broadway, Jim Thorpe. 6:15 to 9 p.m. Saturdays from Oct. 3 to 17 with tours every 20 minutes. $10, $7 students. 570-325-5259.
New England Contra Dance, with fiddler Ryck Kaiser and keyboardist Jill Smith along with caller Bob Isaacs. Church of Christ Uniting, 776 Market St., Kingston. Oct. 3 with a potluck dinner at 6 p.m. and dancing at 7 p.m. Pay what you wish. 570-333-4007.
North East Dance Club, with music by DJ The Godfather. Dante Literary Society, 1916 Prospect Ave., Scranton. 8 p.m. Oct. 3. $5. 570-342-1770.
Hillside Farms Fall Festival, with music, children’s games, educational presentations, tractor-wagon rides, craft booths and farm-fresh foods. The Lands at Hillside, 65 Hillside Road, Trucksville. Noon to 5 p.m. Oct. 4. $10 per carload. 570-696-2881.
Denison Harvest Festival, with vendors of old-time crafts along with demonstrations and tours of the historic home. Nathan Denison House, 35 Denison St., Forty Fort. 1 to 4 p.m. Oct. 4. $4, $2 children. 570-822-1727.
Annual Harvest Bingo, with cash prizes, tricky trays, door prizes and food. MMI Preparatory School, 154 Centre St., Freeland. 1:30 p.m. Oct. 4. $5. 570-636-1108.
Fall Folige Train Excursion, a 26-mile round trip from Scranton to Moscow to tour the restored passenger and freight stations. Steamtown National Historic Site, 300 Cliff Ave., Scranton. Oct. 4, 12, 17, 25 departing at 12:30 p.m. and returning at 3 p.m. $24, $22 seniors, $17 children. Reservations: 570-340-5204.
Monthly Bingo, sponsored by St. Faustina Kowalska Parish. St. Mary’s School, 1010 S. Hanover St., Nanticoke. Oct. 4 with doors open at 12:30 p.m. and games at 1:45 p.m. 570-735-4833.
Jazz Dancing, with music by the 17-piece Marywood Dance Band. Latour Room, Nazareth Student Center, Marywood University, 2300 Adams Ave., Scranton. 7 p.m. Oct. 4. Free. 570-340-6000.
Tibetan Monks Visit, a sharing of culture by representatives of the Gaden Shartse Phukhang Monastery in India. The monks will create a mandala using finely colored sand from Oct. 5 to 9 in the Pauly Friedman Art Gallery of Misericordia University, 301 Lake St., Dallas, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 5; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 6 to 8; 9 a.m. to noon Oct. 9. Also: Golden Tea Offering, prayers and chanting 4 to 4:45 p.m. Oct. 5 and 7; a musical program in Lemmond Theater 7 p.m. Oct. 6; a lecture on meditation at noon in Insalaco Hall; a World Peace Lecture 5 p.m. Oct. 8 at Insalaco Hall; and a closing ceremony including dissolving of the mandala 1 p.m. Oct. 9. 570-674-6719.
Colorful China, a showcase of dance, music and art representing many of the 56 ethnic groups in China, presented by a troupe of 21 costumed performers. Kirby Center for Creative Arts, N. Sprague Ave., Wyoming Seminary, Kingston. 7:30 p.m. Oct. 5. Free. 570-270-2192.
Hoban Lecture, a talk on “The U.S. Role in the World: Challenges and Responsibilities” by Sen. George J. Mitchell, former U.S. Senate majority leader and author of “The Negotiator: A Memoir.” Elm Park United Methodist Church, 712 Linden St., Scranton. 5:30 p.m. Oct. 6. Free. Reservations: 570-941-6206.
Greek Food Festival, tastes of the Mediterranean including baklava, spanakopita, stuffed grape leaves, pastitsio, galaktoboureko, gyros, souvlaki and more. Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, 32 E. Ross St., Wilkes-Barre. 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Oct. 7 to 9. 570-417-4465.
The Other Side of Immigration, a film which questions why so many Mexicans have migrated to the U.S. and what has happened to the families and communities they’ve left behind. Part of the fifth annual King’s College Hispanic Film Festival. Burke Auditorium, McGowan School of Business, West Union and North River streets, King’s College, Wilkes-Barre. 7 p.m. Oct. 7. Free. 570-208-8021.
Wounded Warriors: Caring for Northeast Pennsylvania’s Veterans, the 24th annual “History of Northeastern Pennsylvania” with lectures, a film and panel discussion by regional historians and experts. Luzerne County Community College, 1333 S. Prospect St., Nanticoke. Oct. 9 with morning session 9 to 11:30 a.m. and afternoon session 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Free but optional luncheon is $10. 570-740-0508.
Pumpkin Fall Festival, with a corn maze, hayrides, pick your own pumpkins, Children’s Playland, Apple Slingshot, food including apple dumplings, Pony Party Paradise, petting zoo, Freas Farm Winery and music. Rohrbach’s Farm Market, 240 Southern Drive, Catawissa.11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Oct. 9, 10 and 17; 3 to 7 p.m. Oct. 16. Flashnight Night in the Corn Maze open 7 to 9 p.m. 570-356-7654.
Schemel Forum World Affairs Luncheon, a talk on “Genomic Science, Politics and Race: Can They Coexist Comfortably?” with Harvard University educator Jennifer Hochschild. Brennan Hall, 320 Madison Ave., University of Scranton. Noon on Oct. 9. Reservations: 570-941-6206.
Sullivan County Fall Festival, the 35th annual event with a Lumberjack Competition in log rolling, crosscut, one-man bucking, bow saw, axe throw and more. Also: the Mid-Atlantic National Chainsaw Carving Competition, a juried arts and crafts show, quilt show, children’s activities, pumpkin painting, Art Expo, food vendors and music by the Tickle Band (Saturday) and Covert Action (Sunday). Sullivan County Fairgrounds, 4430 Route 154, Forksville. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Oct. 10 and 11. $7. 570-482-4088.
Train Excursion, from Scranton to East Stroudsburg. Steamtown National Historic Site, 300 Cliff Ave., Scranton. Oct. 10 departing at 11 a.m. and returning at 3:45 p.m. $54, $49 seniors, $32 children. Reservations: 570-340-5204.
Autumn Timber Festival, with lumberjack shows by the Ironjack Timber Team competing in hot saw, log roll, axe throw, speed climb, springboard chop and more. Also: the Mutt-allica Real Dog and Pony Show, Ugly Pig Races, Time Traveling Medicine Magic Show, blacksmithing demos, chainsaw sculptures, live music, children’s activities, scenic chairlift rides and food and craft vendors. Shawnee Mountain Ski Area, 401 Hollow Road, Shawnee on Delaware. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Oct. 10 and 11. $12; $10 children. 570-421-7231.
Swetland Fall Festival, with a Civil War encampment by the 143rd Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry Regiment, tours of the 1803 historic homestead, Colonial and Victorian games for children, Hat Contest, homemade pie contest, and a chicken barbecue. Swetland Homestead, 885 Wyoming Ave., Wyoming. 1 to 4 p.m. Oct. 10. $15. 570-823-6244.
Car Cruise, a benefit for the Children’s Miracle Network with trophies, raffles, music and food. Austie’s Family Restaurant, 2333 Sans Souci Parkway, Hanover Township. 4 to 7 p.m. Oct. 10. 570-239-1111.
Wyalusing Fall Festival, the 21st annual street festival with displays, vendors, food, art projects, children’s events, live birds of prey, magic show and hand-painted pumpkins. Downtown Wyalusing. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Oct. 11. 570-746-4922.
Train Excursion, from Scranton to Tobyhanna. Steamtown National Historic Site, 300 Cliff Ave., Scranton. Oct. 11 departing at 11 a.m. and returning at 3 p.m. $34, $29 seniors, $22 children. Reservations: 570-340-5204.
Dorothy Day: Don’t Call Me a Saint, a documentary on the 1900s human-rights activist. Brennan Hall, 320 Madison Ave., University of Scranton. 7 p.m. Oct. 13. Free. 570-941-6631.
Classic Movie Series, a free showing of “The Color Purple” (1985) about a young African-American girl finding her place in the world and escaping abuse. With Whoopi Goldberg, Danny Glover and Oprah Winfrey. Dietrich Theater, 60 E. Tioga St., Tunkhannock. 1 and 7 p.m. Oct. 14. 570-996-1500.
Art Night, a class in painting a fall scene; canvas, paint, brushes, easel and instructor provided. Dante Literary Society, 1916 Prospect Ave., Scranton. 7 p.m. Oct. 14. $35. 570-342-1770 or myspiritart.com.
Dorothy Day: Don’t Call Me a Saint, a documentary on the 1900s human-rights activist. Latour Room, Nazareth Student Center, Marywood University, 2300 Adams Ave., Scranton. 7 p.m. Oct. 14. Free. 570-961-4723.
Pocono Food Truck Festival, with “street eats” from New Jersey, New York and Philadelphia. Also: live music, Monster Truck shows, scenic chairlift rides, jugglers and more. Shawnee Mountain Ski Area, 401 Hollow Road, Shawnee on Delaware. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Oct. 17 and 18. $12.50; $8.50 children. 570-421-7231.
North East Dance Club, with music by DJ Phyliss Rodemich. Dante Literary Society, 1916 Prospect Ave., Scranton. 8 p.m. Oct. 17. $5. 570-342-1770.
Train Excursion, from Scranton to the Delaware Water Gap. Steamtown National Historic Site, 300 Cliff Ave., Scranton. Oct. 18 departing at 9 a.m. and returning at 5 p.m. $54, $49 seniors, $32 children. Reservations: 570-340-5204.
Chocoholic Frolic, the 11th annual benefit for United Neighborhood Centers of Northeastern Pennsylvania with samplings of sweet and savory chocolate treats. Scranton Cultural Center, 420 N. Washington Ave. 6 to 8 p.m. Oct. 18. $30. 570-346-0759.
Schemel Forum World Affairs Luncheon, a talk on “Who Was the Greater American, George Washington or Abraham Lincoln?” by attorney Morey Myers. Rose Room, Brennan Hall, 320 Madison Ave., University of Scranton. Noon on Oct. 21. Reservations: 570-941-6206.
Introducing Two Pennsylvania Pioneers, a talk by historian Sheldon Spear on two unsung heroes: Augustine Gallitzin who attracted a steady influx of Catholics to the area; and Jane Grey Swisshelm, one of America’s first female journalists who embraced women’s rights and the abolition of slavery. Dietrich Theater, 60 E. Tioga St., Tunkhannock. 7 p.m. Oct. 21. Free. 570-996-1500.
Dorothy Day Commemoration Lecture, a talk on the 1900s human-rights activist by her granddaughter Martha Hennessey entitled “Memories of My Grandmother, Prophet and Catholic Peace Activist.” Latour Room, Nazareth Student Center, Marywood University, 2300 Adams Ave., Scranton. 7 p.m. Oct. 21. Also presented at the Rose Room, Brennan Hall, 320 Madison Ave., University of Scranton. 7 p.m. Oct. 22. Free. 570-961-4723 or 570-941-6631.
Shamrocktoberfest, a fundraiser for the Pittston City St. Patrick’s Day Parade with food, brewery tours, basket raffles and entertainment by the Sperazza Band. Susquehanna Brewing Company, 635 S. Main St., Pittston. 6 to 8 p.m. Oct. 22. $20.
Downtown Wilkes-Barre Ghost Walks, a walk through the historic district to hear tales of ghosts, murders and hidden graveyards, led by historian William V. Lewis. Meet at the Luzerne County Historical Society Museum, 69 S. Franklin St., Wilkes-Barre. 6:45 p.m. Oct. 23 and 24. $10. Reservations: 570-823-6244.
Fine Wine, Fine Art. Pack your favorite wine and snacks and complete a painting at this paint-from-life art workshop with Amy and Steve Colley. Dietrich Theater, 60 E. Tioga St., Tunkhannock. 7 to 9 p.m. Oct. 23. $25 includes paint, canvas and instruction. Age 21 and older. Registration: 570-996-1500.
Contra Dance, with music by Poison Love. The Cooperage, 1030 Main St., Honesdale. 7:30 to 10 p.m. Oct. 23. $10. 570-253-2020.
Bark for Life, a dog walk for leashed pets and their owners to raise funds for the American Cancer Society. With demonstrations, basket raffles, food, music, a costume contest and pet luminaria. Kirby Park, Wilkes-Barre. Oct. 24 with registration at 9 a.m. and event 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. $10 advance; $15 day of event. 570-562-9749.
Train Excursion, from Scranton to East Stroudsburg. Steamtown National Historic Site, 300 Cliff Ave., Scranton. Oct. 24 departing at 11 a.m. and returning at 3:45 p.m. $54, $49 seniors, $32 children. Reservations: 570-340-5204.
Halloween Fest, with pumpkin carving, a pinata, ghost stories, haunted woods, treats, campfire and more. Salt Springs State Park, 2305 Salt Springs Road, Franklin Forks. 4 to 8:30 p.m. Oct. 24. $5. 570-967-7275.
Wine Pairing Fundraiser, wines from Maiolatesi Winery paired with Italian appetizers. Dante Literary Society, 1916 Prospect Ave., Scranton. 6 to 9 p.m. Oct. 24. $25; $40 per couple. 570-342-1770.
Francis, Ignatius and Francis: Catholic Encounters with Muslims, the annual Feast of St. Francis Lecture, delivered by Father Patrick Ryan of Fordham University. Burke Auditorium, McGowan School of Business, West Union and North River streets, King’s College, Wilkes-Barre. 7 p.m. Oct. 28. Free. 570-208-5900, ext. 5689.
AACA Car and Bike Cruise. Anything with wheels is welcome. Public Square, Wilkes-Barre. 6 to 11 p.m. Oct. 30 with awards at 9 p.m.
Colonial Superstitions, Folklore and Witchcraft, famous folk tales of the 18th century about afterlife beliefs, burial practices, witchcraft and the beginnings of some Halloween traditions. Sponsored by the Luzerne County Historical Society at the Nathan Denison House, 35 Denison St., Forty Fort. 6 to 9 p.m. Oct. 30 and 31. $5, $3 children. 570-823-6244.
Victorian Death and Mourning Practices, including a Victorian funeral, a Civil War Field Hospital and grieving customs and celebrations of death from the 18th to 20th centuries. Swetland Homestead, 885 Wyoming Ave., Wyoming. 7 to 9 p.m. Oct. 30 and 31. $10. Reservations: 570-823-6244.
The Exorcist, the 1973 shocker about a teenage girl possessed by a mysterious entity. Rated R. F.M. Kirby Center, Public Square, Wilkes-Barre. 9:30 p.m. Oct. 30. $5. 570-826-1100.
Halloween Fun at Kettle Creek, folk tales, myths and legends from Native Americans, Greeks and early Americana told around the campfire at Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center, 8050 Running Valley Road, Stroudsburg. Also: seeking out saw-whet owls with members of the Pocono Avian Research Center. 8 p.m. Oct. 31. $8, $3 children. Registration: 570-629-3060.
Rocky Horror Picture Show, the 1975 cult classic about a couple seeking help after a breakdown at the bizarre residence of Dr. Frank-N-Furter. Rated R. F.M. Kirby Center, Public Square, Wilkes-Barre. Oct. 31 at midnight. $5. 570-826-1100.
Monthly Bingo, sponsored by St. Faustina Kowalska Parish. St. Mary’s School, 1010 S. Hanover St., Nanticoke. Nov. 1 with doors open at 12:30 p.m. and games at 1:45 p.m. 570-735-4833.
Celebrate Sobriety at the Movies, a showing of Stephen Spielberg’s classic film “The Goonies,” with free admission, popcorn and soda. Open to anyone whose life has been affected by addiction. Sponsored by Wyoming County C.A.R.E.S. Dietrich Theater, 60 E. Tioga St., Tunkhannock. 7 p.m. Nov. 4. 570-996-1500.
Schemel Forum World Affairs Luncheon, a talk by Worldview columist for The Philadelphia Inquirer Trudy Rubin on “Why Not Just Forget About the Middle East?” Rose Room, Brennan Hall, 320 Madison Ave., University of Scranton. Noon on Nov. 5. Reservations: 570-941-6206.
Steamtown National Historic Site will waive its entrance fee in honor of Veterans Day. 300 Cliff St., Scranton. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 11. 570-340-5200.
Classic Movie Series, a free showing of “Saving Private Ryan” (1998) about a group of World War II soldiers who go behind enemy lines to rescue a paratrooper. Starring Tom Hanks and Matt Damon. Dietrich Theater, 60 E. Tioga St., Tunkhannock. 1 and 7 p.m. Nov. 11. 570-996-1500.
Schemel Forum World Affairs Luncheon, a talk on “History at the End of the World” by MIT educator Rosalind Williams. Rose Room, Brennan Hall, 320 Madison Ave., University of Scranton. Noon on Nov. 12. Reservations: 570-941-6206.
College Football’s Gladiators, a talk on the ethics of sports risks including a comparison between Roman gladiators and college football players by philosophy professor Heather Reid of Morningside College. Burke Auditorium, McGowan School of Business, West Union and North River streets, King’s College, Wilkes-Barre. 7 p.m. Nov. 12. Free. 570-208-5900, ext. 5689.
Fine Wine, Fine Art. Pack your favorite wine and snacks and complete a painting at this paint-from-life art workshop with Amy and Steve Colley. Dietrich Theater, 60 E. Tioga St., Tunkhannock. 7 to 9 p.m. Nov. 13. $25 includes paint, canvas and instruction. Age 21 and older. Registration: 570-996-1500.
Schemel Forum World Affairs Luncheon, a talk on “When There Were Two Europes: Islam and Christendom” by David Lewis, professor at New York University. Rose Room, Brennan Hall, 320 Madison Ave., University of Scranton. Noon on Nov. 18. Reservations: 570-941-6206.
Treefest, the annual fundraiser for the Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble with hundreds of decorated trees, seasonal musicians, choirs and dance groups, artisans, a gingerbread house contest and Chinese auction. Market Square, Bloomsburg. Nov. 27 to Dec. 6 with hours 6 to 9 p.m. Fridays; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturdays; noon to 5 p.m. Sundays. $6. 570-784-8181 or bte.org.
Elf, the 2003 comedy about a man raised as an elf at the North Pole. F.M. Kirby Center, Public Square, Wilkes-Barre. 1 p.m. Nov. 28. $3. 570-826-1100.
Miracle on 34th Street, the classic holiday film starring Maureen O’Hara and John Payne. F.M. Kirby Center, Public Square, Wilkes-Barre. 7:30 p.m. Nov. 28. $5. 570-826-1100.
Christmas Vacation, the 1989 film following the Griswolds’ plans for a family Christmas, predictably turning into a big disaster. F.M. Kirby Center, Public Square, Wilkes-Barre. 9:30 p.m. Nov. 28. $5. Also: an Arts Market for holiday shopping. 570-826-1100.
Strategizing Scranton’s Recovery, a talk by Henry Amoroso, budget consultant to the City of Scranton. Pearn Auditorium, Brennan Hall, University of Scranton. 5:30 p.m. Dec. 3. Free but reservations required: 570-941-6206.
Olde Time Christmas, with tours of the historic Asa Packer mansion, live nativity, train rides with Santa, historic district ghost walks, gingerbread-house contest, strolling carolers, musicians and more. Downtown Jim Thorpe. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 4-6 and 12-13. 570-325-8485.
Holiday Workshop, a morning of cookie decorating, holiday crafts, singing and creations by the Balloon Lady. For all ages. Dietrich Theater, 60 E. Tioga St., Tunkhannock. 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Dec. 5. Free. 570-996-1500.
Monthly Bingo, sponsored by St. Faustina Kowalska Parish. St. Mary’s School, 1010 S. Hanover St., Nanticoke. Dec. 6 with doors open at 12:30 p.m. and games at 1:45 p.m. Bingo continues on the first Sunday of the month through June 5. 570-735-4833.
Classic Movie Series, a free showing of “Home Alone” (1990) with Macaulay Culkin as a boy who is mistakenly left behind when his family flies to Paris for a Christmas vacation. Dietrich Theater, 60 E. Tioga St., Tunkhannock. 1 and 7 p.m. Dec. 9. 570-996-1500.
It’s a Wonderful Life, free showings of the holiday classic starring James Stewart and Donna Reed. Dietrich Theater, 60 E. Tioga St., Tunkhannock. 2, 7 and 8 p.m. Dec. 15. 570-996-1500.