Nice weather brings out a festive crowd for downtown Greensburg's Luminary Night
Dec. 3—Thursday was a big night out for 3-year-old Laney Brannigan of Greensburg and her brother, Declan, 5.
They joined their parents, Rachel and Tommy Brannigan, as they explored the many holiday activities offered in their hometown as part of the 52nd annual Luminary Night.
"We're enjoying the scenery and supporting local businesses," Tommy Brannigan said. "It's great to get the kids out."
After visiting Santa on the front porch of the Greensburg Hempfield Area Library and picking up some candy canes and cookies, the family walked a few blocks to buy more candy at McFeely's Gourmet Chocolate shop.
The Brannigans gathered for a photo in front of a decorated tree at Greensburg's South Pennsylvania Avenue parklet, but even more excitement was in store for the children.
Said Rachel, "They got a free book at the library, and they made some reindeer food" — a combination of dry cereal, seeds and glitter.
Rainy skies cleared up in time for the event while temperatures in the 50s made for a comfy evening strolling along the downtown sidewalks lined with luminaries.
"There was a bigger crowd this year," Tommy Brannigan said.
"It was perfect," Rachel added.
By the end of the two-hour Winter Wonderland of activities at the library, 167 children and 158 adults had stopped to pick up take-home crafts such as a DIY picture frame.
Activities were held on the library porch because of renovation going on inside the building and covid protocols.
But some restrictions were eased from the previous year: Santa greeted kids face to face instead of waving from a window.
The Pazaz Christian Dance Academy was among a lineup of performers offering entertainment in front of the Westmoreland County Courthouse, next to a living Nativity scene presented by CLM Ministries.
Greater need at Greater Things
Across the street, near the corner of Main and Otterman, carolers beckoned downtown visitors to check out an open house at the headquarters of Greater Things, a faith-based nonprofit that offers free food, clothing and other necessities to those in need.
"We heard there were cookies and hot chocolate; this is what we came for," said Kristen Reimert of Greenburg, who was joined by her second-grade son and her sister. "We're enjoying the festivities. It's a nice day to get out."
Greater Things, which is supported by several local churches and receives donations from some businesses, has seen a growing need during the covid-19 pandemic, according to the organization's director, Connie Staley.
"We've seen a huge influx of people asking for help, and the people of Greensburg have banded together to support their neighbors," Staley said.
About 50 people receive free weekly takeout meals Greater Things offers from 5 to 6 p.m. Wednesdays, when they also can shop in the group's free store for everything from toilet paper to winter wear.
People also can pick up donated decorations for an extra helping of holiday cheer.
"Everybody is ready to celebrate the Christmas season," Staley said. "Everybody is in a good spirit."
Jeff Himler is a Tribune-Review staff writer. You can contact Jeff at 724-836-6622, jhimler@triblive.com or via Twitter .
