I happened to spy an article in the Citizens Voice on Saturday morning regarding Luzerne’s 12th Annual Fall Festival. I don’t even know how I missed the eleven festivals they had before this, but hope I’m forgiven. I just love Luzerne’s downtown so I packed my wallet and took the five-minute drive.

What a lovely, pleasant surprise! Main Street was open to foot traffic only and parking was easy (and free). Luzerne perfectly captured the atmosphere of a festival. In addition to the colorful displays of the merchants and vendors, a horse-drawn carriage was prancing up and down the street giving wagon rides to the pleasure of the children passengers. I saw clowns, a petting zoo, food stands, face painting and balloons and streamers. I felt like I slipped back in time and was enjoying a good old fashioned street fair!

This was clearly-well organized. A kick-off parade began at noon. Luzerne’s Mayor James Keller provided opening remarks. Our State Representative Phyllis Mundy also attended (man, she’s terrific). There was also a presentation by the Boy Scouts as well as a presentation of a centennial plaque.

The entertainment scheduled for both days of the fair was extensive and delightful. Local dance companies, magicians, dj’s local church choirs, ballroom dance lessons and even Elvis made an appearance. Although I’m not sure it was needed, there was a presence of police security provided by Luzerne’s neighbors, Forty Fort.

The fall festival was important this year because it was also the borough’s 125th anniversary. Luzerne became an organized borough in 1882 of territory taken from Kingston Township. The borough takes up only one itty bitty square mile. Small, yes, but very well-run.

What impresses me the most are the merchants. They have formed an impressive association and have taken an active role in turning a vacant downtown into a thriving Main Street. Other municipalities should try this! There are 50 merchants listed on the Luzerne Merchants Association website. Although a few are chain stores, most of these merchants are sole proprietors with their owners living locally. There are interesting and unique shops and businesses. Noteworthy is the locally owned Luzerne National Bank, also celebrating an anniversary. The bank is 100 years old this year. It remains one of the few locally owned banks in the area.

I made a great decision on Saturday. I saw some beautiful fall crafts, hand made blankets, scarfs and sweaters. Lots of custom jewelry vendors displayed their wares (I bought the cutest little bracelet). This was a perfect mini-Bloomsburg fair - without the travel time, traffic, parking problems, lines, or admission fees! I’m marking my calendar for next year’s festival.

Check them out:www.luzernemerchants.com