WILKES-BARRE, LUZERNE COUNTY — A fall festival is making its return this weekend in Luzerne County bringing dozens of local businesses and live music to Public Square in Wilkes-Barre.
Grinding coffee beans is part of the morning routine at Abide Coffeehouse in Wilkes-Barre.
The local shop is a pitstop for those looking for a pick-me-up, but this week they’re also preparing for its 2nd annual Back to the Grind Fall Festival.
“People are, you know, going through some tough times and we like to help out as much as we can, so this is a way that we can give more back to the community,” said Dan Shission, co-owner, Abide Coffeehouse.
Kicking off Friday night, the weekend will be packed with around 50 vendors with live music giving local bands both old and new a chance to showcase their talent.
“It’s very difficult to get your name out there, it’s very difficult to be a band who’s starting out and just getting that opportunity, and a place like this is really great because even if someone isn’t there necessarily for you, they walk by and say, ‘hey wait a minute that band is actually really good!’” said Eric Novroski, board member, Abide Foundation.
Proceeds raised from the three-day festival will go toward its non-profit, ‘The Abide Foundation’ to help those in need.
“If someone comes in, whether it’s a mom who needs food for her kids or it’s a college student who’s having trouble with textbooks or housing or anything like that, we can immediately help them with a small amount just to get them through that hurdle they’re facing that day,” said Austin Shission, co-owner, Abide Coffeehouse.
Around $12,000 in prizes will be up for grabs through raffles, scavenger hunts, and other activities.
“Any college student that comes down and shows their student ID at the booth on the square this weekend, will get a card for a free drink next week,” said Austin Shission.
A chance to shine some positivity and a feeling of community in the Diamond City.
“Bring people out, bring people together. Explore the city, check out the other businesses that are down here and just have a great time being downtown,” said Dan Shission.
Abide is still looking to add vendors to the festival beginning Friday, people can reach out to the coffee shop at 570-994-3153 for details.
