Labor United Celebration draws thousands for sun-drenched second day

Blue skies and the smell of cheesy fries and other festival food staples greeted thousands of people who flocked to the second day of this year’s Labor United Celebration at Northmoreland Park in Allegheny Township.

The two-day festival, celebrating the tradition of organized labor in Western Pennsylvania, was canceled last year because of the pandemic.

Monday’s attendance appeared to surpass Sunday’s, presumably in large part because of the improved weather conditions.

Cars were lined up Monday all the way back to Route 356 and Park Road, with some cars waiting an hour to locate parking.

The festival featured carnival staples such as food, rides and musical entertainment and boasted a huge outdoor flea market. An old-fashioned one-ring circus, by Zerbini Family Circus, performed three shows daily.

The festival’s affordability was an added attraction for many festivalgoers.

“I come here every year, and it’s only $4 for a ride pass. It’s cheap. We’re a family of three, and I spend maybe $30 for the whole day,” said Janel Smail of East Vandergrift, who brought her two young children.

Abby Weber of White Oak said she missed the festival last year and was happy to see it return.

“This is our fourth time here, and it was sad to miss it last year because of the pandemic. We love it here, and for $4 to ride the rides, well, you’re not going to get that anywhere else,” Weber said.

All-day activity passes were sold for $4 each and included admission to all carnival rides, the circus, petting zoo, bounce houses, obstacle courses and a climbing wall.

Toni Shurgot of Penn Township said celebrating Labor Day is important, but she also loved scarfing down some of the food, particularly the hot sausage and funnel cakes.

“It’s a day to be thankful for the workers,” Shurgot said.

Chris O’Leath was busy with fellow Arnold Volunteer Engine Company No. 2 volunteers manning their french fry booth Sunday. The company depends on sales of their “famous fries” with various toppings such as gravy and cheese, for much-needed revenue.

Arnold No. 2 lost more than $100,000 in 2020 because they were unable to host their regular fundraisers, O’Leath said.

“We’re going to sell about 2 tons of potatoes during these two days,” O’Leath said. “It’s one of our biggest fundraisers.”