Friday night marks the opening of the 79th annual St. Joseph's Roman Catholic Church community festival in Summit Hill and several workers braved the staggering heat throughout the week to begin setting up for the event.

The decades-old event draws visitors from near and far who enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of a good old-fashioned block party.The fun begins Friday at 6 p.m. complete with games, rides, food and entertainment provided by YMI Duo.Things heat up on Saturday with a horseshoe tournament beginning at 11 a.m.Parishoners and visitors can attend the 4 p.m. Mass held at the church.The festival will start up at 5 p.m. and will feature entertainment provided by the Party Dawgs from 6 - 10 p.m.Kicking off Sunday's events will be the procession of St. Gabriel at 3:30 followed by a benediction.The festival opens at 5 p.m. with entertainment from DJ Swerchinator until 6 p.m. and Asking Andy will perform from 6 - 10 p.m. followed by a brilliant fireworks display.On Sunday, a Chinese auction drawing will be held from 9 - 10 p.m.For more information or to sign up for the horseshoe tournament call (570) 645-4873.