SCRANTON, Pa. — Since 1960, Scranton has started every holiday season with the lighting of the WEJL Tower.
And every year, hundreds come together to celebrate throughout the day.
"We have been coming here since the 12-year-old was in a stroller, and we never miss. We just look forward to it; it's the beginning of our holiday weekend, and I'm just so excited to be here tonight," said Terry Cummings, Dunmore.
But for some, the holiday celebrations really start to take off in the night.
"Everybody knows that the night before Thanksgiving is usually the best night of the year for bars around the area and I'm sure all over the place," said Joe Incelli, owner of Joe's Bar Downtown Scranton.
"Usually it's like really good vibes out in Scranton; everyone comes out, has fun, meets up with friends we haven't seen in a while, and everyone has a good time," said Samantha Kamla, Bartender at Vooding Brewing Co.
It's a night bartenders and owners have to prep for in advance.
"We stock up, that's what we do, stock up, put on extra bartenders, and we're ready to roll for tonight," said Incelli.
"Definitely have to order more beer, liquor, everybody come in earlier to stock," said Jared Kuchmas, Manager of Harry's.
"We get here a little bit early, just to make sure everything's running good for everyone to come in and have a good time," said Kamla.
And folks were definitely feeling the holiday cheer.
"It's just a great day to reconnect with friends, whether if they're living far or close and just having a good time before the thankful holiday," said Jack Geriepy, Scranton.
"We've been best friends our entire lives, so to be able to see each other again after especially not living close to each other, it's just the best feeling in the world," added Emily Bocan of Camp Hill.