Gathering on Grant, a monthly event, brings back Thursday night festivity to Vandergrift

A new monthly community festival is starting in historic Vandergrift this month.

Gathering on Grant, a monthly vendor-focused festival, kicks off Thursday, May 19. It will operate through October, from 5 to 8 p.m., every third Thursday, except in July.

The event is sponsored by the Vandergrift Business Association, a nonprofit created last year with a goal of promoting business growth and unity in the borough and surrounding area. In years past, many stores in Vandergrift stayed open later on Thursday nights.

Borough officials have expressed an interest in offering a communitywide gathering that can potentially bring in people from neighboring towns.

The event was approved by Vandergrift Council in March.

Co-chair Lori Marshall said it’s all about supporting local businesses.

“We’re still looking for vendors and are encouraging more food trucks to sign up,” Marshall said.

Tommy Scanga, owner of Del Vecchio’s Sausage & Fries and Del Vecchio’s Market in Vandergrift, said he will be there.

More than 20 vendors are booked, including Kona Ice, Hermes Greek Food, food trucks, a firetruck from Vandergrift No. 1 Volunteer Fire Department, Salem Spirits and more.

The Del Vecchio’s food truck serves up authentic homemade Italian sweet sausage, fresh-cut fries, pulled pork and more.

“Back when I was growing up in Vandergrift, we loved Thursday nights in town — lots of people and fun things going on,” Scanga said.

Grant Avenue will be closed to vehicle traffic from Columbia Avenue to Sumner Avenue.

Music will be provided by DJ Magic Moments, playing oldies from the 1960s, ’70s and ’80s.

“The goal is to bring people into the Vandergrift business district to help local businesses and have a family-friendly event for all of our local and surrounding communities,” organizer Eric Mikula said.

Most businesses along Grant Avenue, including Sweetlane Chocolate Shop, Allusion Brewing Co. and Full Circle Gifts, will be open later during the event.

Lisa Bonello Brunermer, owner of Full Circle Gifts, plans to offer a 10% storewide sale.

“I love a festival. I’m very much looking forward to it. I wouldn’t miss what promises to be an awesome event,” Brunermer said.

Scheduled children’s activities include cornhole, face painting and an interactive kinetic sensory table.

The vendor fee is $25 per event. Interested vendors are asked send an email to vandergriftbusinessassociation@gmail.com or register here online.