It’s that time of year again! The Northeast Fair kicked off on June 20 and runs through June 25, 2017. I look forward to this fair each year and am thrilled to have had the chance to write about it here!
Northeast Fair History
The Northeast Fair is has become a local summer tradition for many in the area. Located in Pittston Township at the Suscon Road fairgrounds, it's been operating for fifteen years. The fairgrounds and parking are located on 42 acres of land. Over 35,000 people are expected to attend over the course of it's opening this year.
The fair is a non-profit event that takes place each year and the money raised helps the Pittston Township Volunteer Fire Department pay for life-saving equipment and training. It is the state's largest firefighter sponsored event.
For just $10, you gain entrance, access to entertainment, and access to most of the fair rides (with very few requiring a small additional fee). The fair is free for children ages 2 and under.
Food and Entertainment
There is certainly something for everyone at the Northeast Fair. The first thing you’ll notice upon walking onto the fairgrounds is the abundance of food vendors. From gourmet grilled cheese to pizza, fried Oreos, and ice cream, the options seem endless… which only warrants multiple trips to the fair, if you ask me.
The Pennsylvania Lottery Pavilion
You’ll also notice a large stage opposite the entrance. This is the Pennsylvania Lottery Pavilion. Here, you can enjoy shows by the following groups and performers this year: Ron Diamond Family Magic Show, a Balloon Stunt Show with James Johnson, Turi Studio of Dance & Fitness, the Family Martial Arts Academy of NEPA, the Barbara Ann Woronko Anzalone, NEPA School of Dance, Perfect Harmony Center for the Arts, the Beautiful Baby Contest, a Keystone Kids Starmakers Doo-Wop Show, the Phoenix Performing Arts Center, Scranton Dance Studio, David Blight School of Dance, a Fashion Show, and a performance by Beth Connors singing Bette Midler!
You can view times for all shows on the Northeast Fair website.
Buffo, the World’s Strongest Clown has daily shows at the fair where he juggles bowling balls, hatchets, chainsaws and more! A petting zoo features animals from around the world, featuring Eliott the baby giraffe!
This was the highlight of the fair this year for me, followed closely by the Great American Frontier Show’s Wolves of the World show, which is new to the fair this year.
The fair features over 25 rides by Reithoffer Shows, a company that operates over 100 rides at America’s leading fairs on the East Coast and Midwest. These rides include a Merry Go Round, Century Wheel, Starship 2000, a Zipper, kiddy rides, and more!
Contest Pavilions and Displays
Once you get past the food, shows, and rides, you’ll have the opportunity to take a look at a few of the displays that are set up each year. Walk to the left or right of the entrance and you will find agricultural, food, art displays, and more.
The Beer Garden is located to the left of the entrance in a new location this year and features musical performances. The schedule is posted on their website and includes performances by John and Tiff, Jump the Train, and more.
And don't forget to visit the motorsports shows, including a Compact Car Demolition Derby! Every way you turn there is something to do at the Northeast Fair!
