On Saturday, more than 1,000 people turned out for the annual West Paterson Day at Memorial Field. The festival, held from 3 to 9 p.m., culminated with an intense fireworks display.

This year’s West Paterson Day’s attendance was reportedly the highest in a number of years. The get-together was a collaborative effort between the town and other organizations. Rides and games were sponsored by Berkeley College of West Paterson and the local fire department. The pyrotechnics finale was sponsored by McBride Auto Body.

This was the just the tip of the iceberg in the sea of action at Memorial Field.

The activities included a West Paterson cheerleader’s demonstration, a Simon Says contest, watermelon eating showdown, and a character show featuring children’s favorites Dora the Explorer, Diego, Mickey Mouse, and Elmo.

The fire department had an indoor fire prevention presentation. Other happenings included a snack stand rededication ceremony, a freeze dance competition, and relay races.

Children enjoyed Smiley Guy’s inflatable amusements while Legendery Entertainment of Little Falls supplied disc jockey music. Toys In The Attic, a local band, also kept the scene hopping.

Mayor Pat Lepore gave a glowing assessment of the event.

"This is a great day. You see a lot of kids are out here. You see a lot of families are out here. It’s perfect weather for the fireworks."

Lepore said the party revolves around a core West Paterson value.

"It promotes community. We have been doing a lot of things in town to promote community, and this is one of them."

Councilman Keith Kazmark, while handing out leis to children, said he was impressed with the attendance.

"I have to tell you. This is the largest turnout we ever had this early in the day. We’ll probably have 1,500 to 2,000 people here for the fireworks."

Among those enjoying the event was Sanjay Desai of West Paterson, there with his son Shyam, 8. Desai said the party does much good by bringing people together.

"The main thing is the kids are coming out and are playing together."

Desai said, although commending West Paterson Day, he thinks the tradition has room for improvement. He said the event should profile more local institutions for educational purposes.

"What I’d like to see in the future is some local hospital or insurance company."

Vince Olivo of West Paterson said he enjoyed the festive occasion.

"My wife and I are having a wonderful time. I like it because the kids are having a good time, and I enjoy watching the kids."

One of the many children seen having fun was Brianna Huerta, 13, of West Paterson, who said West Paterson Day packed plenty of fun for the kids, adding that she particularly liked the air filled slides.

After 8 p.m., the fireworks display erupted following the national anthem performed by local singer Carly Nash. The sky above Memorial Field burst in colors amid cheers.