DALTON — Thanks to about 50 volunteers from the community and four area fire companies, along with a little bit of luck, lots of sunshine and only one evening of rain, the Dalton Fire Company Carnival, held July 7 through 11, had “a great year,” according to Justin Sturdevant, Dalton Fire Company president.
Much of the annual event’s success hinges on the weather.
“If we had five days of rain, it would be a terrible year, but we lucked out and had four beautiful days,” Sturdevant said.
The event featured live music, rides, games, food stands, a dunk tank, a parade, fireworks, bingo, raffles and more. The musical lineup included Paul Laquintano, Coal Town Rounders, Joe Kopicki Band, the Greater Scranton Black Diamonds Pipe Band, Old Friends and Mace In Dickson Band.
The Chinchilla Hose Company ran the pizza stand, the Justice Fire Company took charge of the chicken wings and Factoryville Fire Company headed up a French fries booth.
“Everyone was happy,” Sturdevant said of the carnival’s overall atmosphere. “It was easy-going and everyone seemed to be very pleased with everything we did to improve the grounds over the last year.”
The Dalton Fire Company Carnival’s opening night, Tuesday on July 7, saw a large crowd of spectators,wandering the Bank Street grounds purchasing food, enjoying the sounds of local musician Paul Laquintano, riding the rides, playing the games and soaking in the family atmosphere.
Some people enjoy carnival rides more than others. Antony Percival, 2, of South Abington Township wasn’t a fan of this one, but the tears soon came to a halt along with the ride. Sitting with him at left is 9-year-old Courtney Price, of South Abington Township.
Gavin Staffaroni, 5, of Tunkhannock, waves to his family from the flying swing ride at the Dalton Fire Company Carnival.
Ernie Vasquez, 3, of South Abington Township, enjoys a carnival ride at the Dalton Fire Company’s annual event.
Racing down the Fun Slide at the Dalton carnival, from left, Olivia Albright, Annie Dempsey and Allison Murray, all of Clarks Summit.
Celia Froese, r, of South Abington Township, tries her skill and luck in the Water Race game at the Dalton carnival.
Local musician Paul Laquintano performs during the opening night, Tuesday, July 7, of the Dalton Fire Company Carnival.
Working the Dalton Fire Company’s cheese steak stand at the station’s 2015 carnival are , from left, Bob Mitchel, Dalton Fire Company master mechanic; Gabby Samsock, volunteer; Gloria Stryweshi, volunteer; and Ron Stacknick, Dalton Fire Company first assistant chief.
The Dalton Fire Company’s annual carnival features live music, food, rides, games, raffles, prizes, BINGO, fireworks, a parade and more.