Penn Hills Parks & Recreation holds mini Summerfest after canceling last year

Debbie Mizerski effortlessly blew up balloons to create hats for young children eager to have a unique fashion statement to parade around with on their heads at Friendship Park on Aug. 7.

“Be careful not to pop it,” she advised one child as she gently placed the twisted balloon hat on his head.

Mizerski was one of the many vendors present at Penn Hills Parks & Recreation’s Summerfest event. The previously annual festival was canceled last year because of covid. This year, a “mini” festival was held for the community.

“We wanted to pull back on some things to limit contact and follow the recommended guidelines as best as possible,” said John Scaglione, assistant superintendent of the Parks & Recreation department and Public Works.

The mini fest did not feature some of the usual attractions, such as bouncy houses, various crafters and carnival games.

“We are hoping to have everything in full effect next year,” Scaglione said.

The change did not affect the turnout, as families came out to enjoy the festivities present around the park. There were food trucks for attendees to enjoy treats such as popcorn, wings, vegan options and ice cream.

Penn Hills resident Dominique Garrett has been to the festival twice. She loves to play with the animals at the petting zoo.

“It’s a little different, but it’s still nice,” she said.

Homewood resident Rashaad Gambrell decided to check out Summerfest for the first time because his girlfriend, Patrice Jones, wanted to try out the food, which he thought was excellent.

“It’s a nice day out, and it is not too crowded or busy. It’s a good vibe,” he said.

A children’s area was set up for kids to play with the animals in the petting zoo or to try out various games and crafts including the balloon hats and spin art.

Local Pittsburgh band BB Steal performed live ‘80s music songs on stage in the middle of the field, and attendees could sit in seats across from the stage to watch. Fireworks were launched at 9:20 p.m. to wrap up the night.

Andreana Gallagher, who moved to Penn Hills two months ago, was looking forward to getting to know the community better by visiting Summerfest.

“It has been great so far, it seems like a lot of fun,” Gallagher said.

Attendees could also talk to local organizations and public entities from the Penn Hills community, such as The Penn Hills Library, Penn Hills School District, Penn Hills Shade Tree Commission, Penn Hills Midget Football Association and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc.

Scaglione was pleased to see the turnout for the event despite the festival’s reduced size. Even the sprinkle of rain near the beginning of the event’s kick off did not faze people driving into the park and walking onto the grounds.

“It’s great to have something for the community to do because people were tired of being cooped up,” Scaglione said.