Volunteers to Host 33rd Annual Christmas Day Dinner
The holiday event in Scranton will honor the memory of the late Bob Bolus on December 25, 2026.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Philanthropy
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Volunteers will hold the 33rd annual Christmas Day dinner on December 25, 2026, at St. Patrick's Church/All Saints Academy. The event seeks to ensure that no resident in Scranton feels alone during the holiday.
Why it matters
Organizers are continuing the tradition to honor the memory of Bob Bolus, who passed away earlier this year. The dinner serves to provide community support for those spending the holiday without family or friends.
The event will operate from noon to 6 p.m. at the St. Patrick's Church/All Saints Academy location in Scranton. This marks the 33rd iteration of the dinner following the death of Bob Bolus, who was 83.
The players
Bob Bolus
He was a long-time community organizer in Scranton who hosted 32 previous annual turkey dinners before passing away at age 83.
The details
The event will offer both sit-down meals and takeout options for members of the local community. Volunteers are working to maintain the tradition established by the late Bob Bolus, who hosted the event for over three decades.
Timeline
September 10, 2026: Bob Bolus died at the age of 83.
December 25, 2026: The 33rd annual Christmas Day dinner will take place from noon to 6 p.m.
Market Landscape
This effort follows the established pattern of community-led holiday meals that provide essential social support in urban centers. It demonstrates how local charitable institutions adapt to maintain continuity after the loss of a founding leader.
Residents of Scranton in need of a meal or social connection on Christmas Day can visit the event for either a sit-down dinner or takeout service. The dinner provides a predictable resource for those seeking company and nourishment during the holiday.
The takeaway
Community programs often rely on the sustained effort of volunteers to outlast their founders and continue providing critical social services. Residents interested in supporting the event can reach out to local organizers at the church to offer assistance or donations.
Further reading
Learn more about local charitable efforts in our Scranton Philanthropy section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Scranton Times-Tribune.
Live Poll
Do you believe community-led holiday traditions should continue even after the original founder has passed away?
