Main Street Hanover Honors the Legacy of Andrea Niehoff Goodson with Memorial Tree and New Volunteer of the Year Award

ChamberCommunityPress Release

Hanover, PA – July 2, 2025:
Main Street Hanover is proud to announce the planting of a Scarlet Oak tree and the installation of a memorial plaque in Wirt Park in honor of Andrea Niehoff Goodson, a beloved and tireless volunteer who shaped the spirit of the holidays in downtown Hanover.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony for the memorial will be held on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at 5:00 PM in Wirt Park. The community is invited to join members of the Hanover Christmas Committee and local leaders as we celebrate Andrea’s incredible impact and lasting legacy.
Andrea was more than a volunteer—she was Hanover’s top community cheerleader and Santa’s best elf. Her leadership of the Hanover Christmas Committee transformed Hanover into a magical holiday destination year after year. Andrea’s efforts preserved cherished traditions such as the 85-year-old Santa Cabin and the annual Christmas Parade, which in 2022 welcomed a record-breaking 2,600 children.
In tribute to Andrea’s passion and dedication, the Hanover Christmas Committee is proud to introduce the Andrea Niehoff Goodson Volunteer of the Year Award. This new recognition honors individuals who reflect Andrea’s heart for service, her joyful leadership, and her unwavering commitment to community.
“I never had the honor of meeting Andrea personally, but I feel her presence every day through the work of the Christmas Committee and the joy her efforts continue to bring to Hanover,” said Moriah Tyler, Executive Director of Main Street Hanover. “I’m grateful to see the strong foundation she laid—not only for our holiday traditions but for the Hanover community as a whole.”
Nominate Someone Who Inspires!
Nominations open July 1 and close September 1 each year. The recipient will be announced in October and honored as Grand Marshal of the Christmas in Hanover Parade and during the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony.
Award Application Checklist:
  • Nomination Form: Tell us about your nominee!
  • Narrative (250 words): Share how they’ve made an impact through volunteerism.
  • Photos (Up to 5): At least one photo is required—show them in action!
  • Optional: Letters of support or audio/visual materials are welcome.
Andrea’s passing on April 3, 2023, left a void in the heart of downtown Hanover, but her spirit continues to inspire. She was the glue that held countless traditions together and always found a way to bring people together. Let’s carry her light forward by recognizing those who embody her legacy of love, leadership, and community pride.
To learn more or to submit a nomination, visit Mainstreethanover.org/volunteer
About the Christmas Committee
The Christmas in Hanover Committee is a volunteer-led group dedicated to preserving and enhancing the magic of the holiday season in downtown Hanover, Pennsylvania. A program of Main Street Hanover, the committee works year-round to create festive, inclusive, and memorable experiences that bring joy to families, celebrate local traditions, and foster a sense of community pride.
Best known for managing cherished events like the annual Santa Parade, the lighting of the town tree, and the historic Santa Cabin—a Hanover tradition for over 85 years—the committee ensures that the spirit of the holiday shines brightly in the heart of town.

Main Street Hanover Honors the Legacy of Andrea Niehoff Goodson with Memorial Tree and New Volunteer of the Year Award