SCRANTON -- Families in Lackawanna County looking for a place to cool off today didn't have to go too far. Some spent the day in the water at Montage Mountain in Scranton. A few even got the chance to enjoy the waterpark for free on this Labor Day.
It was a day of slippin', slidin' and splashin' at Montage Mountain in Scranton. From the wave pool to the slides, this Labor Day was all about kicking back and relaxing, enjoying what some call the last unofficial day of summer.
At Montage Mountain Waterpark, summer comes to an end on Labor Day. This year the park dedicated the holiday to first responders, giving them one last splash this season free.
"We have, you know, firefighters, police, they do so much for our community, so we just wanted to show our appreciation and say thank you," explained Sarah Farrell, director of marketing.
For EMTs like Ken Esterline, getting days off are few and far between, so a free day at Montage Mountain wasn't something to pass up.
"We're constantly working. It's 24/7. Not just me but my wife and other people around here that actually work away from their families to take care of the sick and injured," said Ken Esterline, Cottage Hose Ambulance Company.
Esterline and other families had the park to themselves this holiday. Many chairs were empty, tubes were left unoccupied. Park officials said the overcast weather may be to blame.
Even though the weather may have been a bit unsettled this Labor Day, families say that wasn't stopping them from coming out to have some fun.
"So what if it's raining? We still have fun down here. The kids love it," said Matthew Kalinowski of Spring Brook Township.
Once the gates close this season, a renovation project will be in full swing at the waterpark. Park officials say the lodge will be renovated inside and out, the bar and grille area will get a new look, and the paths and walkways around the park will be redone.
The director of marketing hopes the project attracts more visitors.
"Once they see the new facility and all the great things, I think they'll be really, really pleased," Farrell said.
The renovations at the lodge are expected to be complete by the start of the ski season this winter.
The Waterpark at Montage Mountain will reopen next spring.