WASHINGTON, N.C. (WITN) -We’re in the midst of yet another highly anticipated festival season here in Eastern Carolina. While there are many to take part in, some believe the annual Washington Summer Festival is far more significant than the rest.

“These festivals are like a melting pot,” said Wayne Shuler, Vendor. “You have some of everybody around from here to there. Everybody comes together and has one goal, which is to make some money.”

“You meet new people coming from different places,” said Jerai Davenport, Festival Goer. “Coming down here is just enjoying yourself. There are no bad vibes.”

Fun, family-oriented, and a memorable time of fellowship are some of the ways people in the east describe the annual Washington Summer Festival.

There is a street fair for the kids, live music, and delicious foods from vendors at the beloved festival. Many took part in night one of the festivities Friday as it was open from 4 p.m. until 9 p.m.

It’s been 41 years since the first festival, and some feel the growing number of people attending every year speaks volumes about the city of Washington.

“Washington is a monumental place, it’s a historical place,” said Patrick Kirby, Festival Goer. “A lot of people move here when they retire. It’s just a special time.”

The festival will resume Saturday at 10 a.m. and will run until 8 p.m.