SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU)— The Lackawanna County Heritage Fair kicked off at Montage Mountain Thursday afternoon.
Thousands came out from all over the area to experience the celebration for themselves.
28/22's Avery Nape brings us the sights and sounds from the first day of the four day festival.
Carnival music, the smell of fried food, and laughter filled the air at Montage Mountain.
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The fifth annual Lackawanna County Heritage Fair kicked off Thursday afternoon, a sign for many that summer is here.
"End of school for North Pocono, shout out North Pocono. Why not go out with a bang? Hang out with some of my friends, go to the first fair of the summer. Who doesn't love a fair," asked Spencer Smith, Clifton Township.
The four day festival features roughly 36 food vendors, at least a dozen rides, and of course the waterpark.
"It's only fifteen dollars you know. You could do the water park and the fair at the same time," expressed Chase Jordan, North Pocono.
But this four day celebration is more than just a fair, it's a way to celebrate Lackawanna County's rich cultural heritage and a way to give back to the community.
"I think Lackawanna County, being here my whole life, we have a big melting pot of all different ethnic backgrounds here and that's what we try to capitalize on," said Jim Rodway, fair manager, Lackawanna County Heritage Fair.
Performances by Irish step-dancers, polka bands, and a Spanish band from Reading are just a few of the musical performances happening at the festival throughout the weekend.
The food choices are international, from Germany to Mexico. But one thing everyone enjoys: deep-fried Oreos.
"I had to start with the deep-fried Oreos," expressed Smith.
"If you like deep-fried Oreos, you should try those," added Miguel Hoover, West Hazleton.
"I might have some of the deep fried Oreos," stated Aubriella Dunn, Scranton.
A clear winner among the crowd. And if fried Oreos aren't your thing, the festival has a little bit of something for everyone- even if it's just getting out and meeting new people.
"I feel like just going out there and doing something for your community, even if it's a fair, just going out and seeing people, you make new connections, make new friends. Just stuff to do, you know," said Smith.
The fair will be going on all weekend in Scranton.
