Celebrate Welcoming Scranton with UNC

United Neighborhood Centers of Northeastern Pennsylvania (UNC) is thrilled to host the 9th Annual Welcoming Scranton Celebration on Saturday, September 20, 2025, from 10 AM to 3 PM at our CEDAR Center headquarters, 526 Cedar Avenue (corner of Alder Street), Scranton. The celebration will take place both inside the center and on the surrounding grounds, in partnership with the South Side Farmers Market.

Welcoming Scranton is part of Welcoming Week, a national movement that brings together long-time residents and newcomers to celebrate diversity, foster cross-cultural understanding, and strengthen community connections.

This year’s event will feature a full day of music, food, and cultural experiences. Families and neighbors can enjoy the upbeat Latin rhythms of Grupo Zona, free ice cream from Scoopz Ice Cream Truck (while supplies last), and an exciting lineup of cultural and educational programs. Highlights include:

• Cooking demonstration with Penn State Extension
• Hispanic Folklore Dance by Ritmos de Mi Tierra
• A sound bath with Breathe and Prosper
• Laughter yoga with Laugh to Live
• History of Migrant Workers presentation by Jenny Gonzalez
• Screening of the Making NEPA Home film trailer from WVIA
• The Scranton Stories Exhibit and a special Meet & Mingle with the University of Scranton

Families can also take part in free face painting by Alissa Burke and interactive activities such as the Language Lounge, Citizenship Challenge, Henna, Carnival Masks, and a Merengue demonstration led by UNC’s Community Education staff, volunteers, and students.

Alongside the entertainment, guests can shop from more than ten Farmers Market vendors, enjoy authentic Mexican food from El Buen Amigo, and connect with over a dozen local community resource organizations.

Join us for a day of music, food, culture, and community spirit as we celebrate everything that makes Scranton welcoming to all.