The weather forecaster was wrong about showers on Sunday and nobody was happier than Tamaqua festival organizers.

“Very pleased with this turnout,” said Dale Freudenberger, president, Tamaqua Historical Society.

“A nice day with fall foliage, good crowd and overall a successful 40th anniversary for the Tamaqua Heritage Festival.”

Attendees enjoyed a wide variety of ethnic treats and other yummies offered by food trucks and food tents.

“All of the items are selling,” said vendor Scott Cramer. His family produced a selection of pies, breads and other delights. Cramer’s homemade pumpkin rolls disappeared like hot cakes.

Many raved about hot foods that hit the spot during the morning hours.

“I had some kind of dish that was perfect for breakfast,” said volunteer Bill Harleman of Hometown. “It was pieces of pierogi, friend onions and kielbasi served in a paper boat. It was sold by the Kellner’s Dam group and it was delicious.”

Joan Smith and family of Sugarloaf enjoyed fresh soups sold by the Tamaqua Cross Country boys and girls teams.

“They had 17 different kinds and they smelled so good. Some varieties were selling out by 11 a.m.”

For some, the festival serves as an annual homecoming.

One visitor, Tamaqua native Mary Haldeman Williams of Avondale, drove three hours to revisit her youth and catch up with relatives and friends.

“I wanted to see old friends and wanted to experience the feel of Tamaqua again. It’s such a nostalgic feeling and now that I’m older, it has deeper meaning to me. The people here are beautiful, and I love staying at Bischoff Inn.

Freudenberger said the festival included tours of the museum, mine tours of Lehigh Anthracite operations via Martz Trailways coaches, the 1848 Hegarty Blacksmith Shop and new Tamaqua Area Wagon Works Museum.

“Ethan Lapp is handling duties at the blacksmith shop. The new Wagon Works museum includes authentic equipment used in building wagons, carriages and sleighs.”

In addition, Polka Joe Manjack, in his 50th year as the Dick Clark of polka music, hosted his WMGH Magic Polka Machine show live from South Railroad Street.

Also offered were horse drawn carriage rides by Leiby’s Carriage Service.

The festival is sponsored by the historical society and organized by volunteers, some of whom have been involved since its inception in 1984.

The society also sponsors Tamaqua Summerfest, held every year on Fathers Day Sunday.