Labor Day weekend is a great time of year here in Lackawanna County. Not only is the magic of fall foliage season around the corner, but it marks the start of one of our most delicious annual events: La Festa Italiana (Friday, August 30 to Monday, September 2, 2024).
Mouthwatering Food
This admission-free event is held at Courthouse Square in downtown Scranton; the four-day Italian festival is a trifecta of food, music, and culture. Visitors can feast on tasty delicacies — from homemade pasta and pizza to freshly brewed cappuccinos and sweet cannoli — while relaxing in the shade of red, white, and green umbrellas on the square’s sprawling lawn. Don’t miss out on local favorites from well-loved vendors like UNICO Scranton’s famous porketta sandwiches or the Old Forge-style pizza at Revello’s Pizza. There’s something for everyone at La Festa, with a variety of food options, including not only Italian cuisine but also festival favorites like funnel cakes, fresh lemonade, and more.
Exciting Entertainment
After indulging in these scrumptious dishes, head to one of three stages for some of the most entertaining live music in Scranton. Enjoy live performances from Italian vocalists and local bands, including traditional Italian music, contemporary bands, and lively dance routines, performing over four days and nights. Check the schedule for headlining acts and special performances throughout the weekend. (Bring your dancing shoes.)
Fun Activities
For those looking to get active, enjoy a game on the bocce lawn, or participate in the 5K Run/1 Mile Fun Walk on Saturday morning. Additionally, there’s plenty of shopping from vendors offering crafts, Italian-themed clothing, art, jewelry, and more.
Photo Courtesy of the Captain James R. Minicozzi Memorial Race
Fireworks
But the highlight of the 48th annual event takes place on Sunday night when the sky over Scranton fizzles with sparkle and color during the grand fireworks show.
Photo Courtesy of Le Festa Italiana
Stay Entertained in Downtown Scranton
While La Festa Italiana is the star of the weekend, there’s plenty more to enjoy in downtown Scranton and the surrounding areas in Lackawanna County. After savoring the festival's mouthwatering delights, take a leisurely stroll through the streets of downtown Scranton during First Friday Scranton (5 to 9 p.m.) and enjoy a self-guided art walk to the plethora of galleries and shops.
For family-friendly activities, hop on a complimentary shuttle at one of the La Festa Italiana stops and head to Railfest (August 31 and September 1, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), a celebration of the region’s railroading history at the Steamtown National Historic Site. Brave Gator Alley with the kids at Electric City Aquarium & Reptile Den, or explore the art exhibits and see a real dinosaur at the Everhart Museum of Natural History, Science & Art.
Relive iconic TV show moments during a self-guided tour of real-life locations featured on The Office. The Office Mural, also one of the stops on the Lackawanna County Mural Trail, is the perfect photo-op! You can also shop small at various local businesses throughout downtown Scranton.
For a more relaxing experience, enjoy a drink at any of our plentiful downtown restaurants and bars, or uncork and unwind on the Lackawanna County Wine Trail if that’s more your speed.
Seeking a nature break? Walk out onto the 150-foot-tall David Wenzel Treehouse in Nay Aug Park for unparalleled views over Nay Aug Gorge. Don’t miss your last chance of the summer to enjoy Montage Mountain Resorts’ Waterpark, which offers hours of al fresco entertainment for kids of all ages. Add in a dose of history — and beat the end of summer heat — by exploring an 1860s coal mine 300 feet below the ground’s surface.
The options are endless in Lackawanna County!
