Schuylkill Haven will be celebrating its 36th annual Borough Day in a big way, according to organizers.
On Saturday, Sept. 28, Borough Day will once again transform Main Street and surrounding blocks into Schuylkill County’s busiest — and most fun — location.
The event will see Schuylkill Haven’s streets overflow with a wide variety of entertainment, including a few new offerings this year, said Charlie Kershner, fair organizer.
A handful of new musicians will take the stage this year, as well as old favorites back by popular demand for the first time in years, Kershner said.
Street Beans, led by Connor Devlin, a Schuylkill Haven High School alumni, was heavily requested and will be returning this year.
“They were there two years ago and went over really well,” Kershner said of Street Beans. “It’s basically a horn band with guitar and a female singer. They do a complete variety of music.”
This year’s new musicians will include oldies and big band performer Denny Hardock, as well as classic rock groups Slick and Chase.
“Also returning will be Jay Allen, who does an Elvis tribute,” Kershner noted.
Entertainers at the event have large shoes to fill, but that will be no trouble for professional performer Madeline Belle of the Philadelphia Stilt Walkers, who will showcase her stilt-stepping skills at Borough Day for the first time.
In all, the event will feature 30 performers, with some taking their acts to one of the event’s eight static locations while others stroll the streets.
Also new this year will be several wineries that will set up stands with wine tastings.
“Previously we had no alcohol at all,” Kerschner said. “With the popularity of wineries, we had a request to try to put some in.”
At least two wineries will be at Borough Day this year, Kershner said, including Lucci Family Wine Cellars of Scranton.
One huge hit that made its debut last year will also be reappearing — pony rides.
The rides will take place at the Parkway playground, Kerschner said, along with two magicians, a ventriloquist, jugglers, a DJ and cheerleaders, in addition to other activities for kids.
History buffs at Borough Day will have plenty on their plate — the Schuylkill Haven Area Historical Society will be debuting a self-guided tour of the downtown’s most history-rich spots.
The tour will feature photographs depicting the town in times past, including buildings that once stood but are no longer there.
Several timeless classics will also make their return, such as Mark Petrich’s gigantic Lego display and the ever-popular bounce houses.
Train rides are back again this year, too. Patrons can hop aboard the Reading Blue Mountain & Northern Railroad’s diesel passenger train for a one-hour ride to Port Clinton and back.
Train rides will take place at 11 a.m., and 1 and 3 p.m. Those interested in train rides can book tickets online at shboroughday.com or call 610-562-2102.
Food options are largely fair favorites, according to Kerschner — everything from burgers, funnel cakes, fries and coal-fired pizza to fresh squeezed lemonade and Italian ice.
Borough Day regularly sees an attendance of up to 25,000, organizers said, and will feature around 200 vendors.
“Basically we have something for just about anybody across the board, from our young infants to our senior citizens,” Kershner said.
Free parking will be available at Schuylkill Haven High School and Island Park, and shuttles will run all day.
Most events are scheduled from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Source: Berkshire mont
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