Nesquehoning firefighters are bringing back a long-held tradition.

On Aug. 16 and 17, area residents can enjoy food, music and games at the Nesquehoning Hose Company No. 1's Community Festival. The festival,located in the fire company's grove area at 953 E. Catawissa St., opens at 3 p.m. Saturday and noon on Sunday.Joe Starosta, vice president of the fire company, said that the volunteers decided that they wanted to hold the festival again.The annual fire company festival used to be held the weekend of Labor Day, but due to other activities across the region, as well as dwindling help at the fire company, the festival was discontinued four years ago."We had a lot of people asking if we are going to do a festival again because the people were missing it," he said. "We thought it would be a good idea to come back, but this time we are making it a community festival. There will be more than just the Nesquehoning Fire Company participating."Matt Miller, president of the fire company, said that the company is inviting all area organizations, fire companies and churches that would like to be part of the festival."We want to reach out to everyone," he said, adding that if a group would like to set up a table, sell food or have other types of activities to call the fire company by the middle of July.On Aug. 16, the festival will kick off at 2 p.m. with a firetruck parade throughout the borough.At 4 p.m., DJ Don will perform before the band Angel Down takes the stage at 8. Angel Down plays a variety of musical genres, including classic, modern and hard rock.On Aug. 17, the festival opens at noon. DJ Don will perform from 1 to 4 p.m.; and Rehab X will take the stage at 5. The band is a cover band that plays pop, rock, hip-hop, dance, Top 40 and more.There will also be a craft show, Chinese auction and more.Miller said that volunteers and area sponsors are also needed to make the event a success.To become a volunteer, sponsor or to sign up for a space at the festival, call the fire company at 570-669-6684 and leave a message.Starosta said proceeds from the festival will benefit all organizations that participate, as well as the fire company."We look forward to seeing the community, family and friends come out to support their local fire company and area organizations on Aug. 16 and 17," Miller said. "All are welcome, and we hope to see you there."