Thousands of people gathered across downtown Penticton on Saturday, Aug. 10, for one of the city's longest-running traditions.

The Peach Festival's Peter Bros. Construction Grand Parade returned at 10 a.m., with floats from across B.C. and Washington.

Representatives from several community organizations and elected officials also took part in the parade, an annual Peachfest tradition that takes participants down Main Street, Winnipeg Street, and eventually, iconic Lakeshore Drive.

With lawn chairs in hand, locals and tourists alike were seen walking through the city's downtown core well before 10 a.m. to secure their spots along the parade route.

Shawna Tinga, president of Peachfest, told the Western News last week that the Grand Parade was among her favourite events.

"It holds a special place in my heart," said Tinga, who grew up in Penticton.

The parade, as it has for several years, also served as an opportunity for people to donate to the local food bank. Volunteers were seen collecting non-perishable donations from people throughout the morning.

Along with floats sa¹ú¼Ê´«Ã½” some from as far as New Westminster and Spokane, Wash. sa¹ú¼Ê´«Ã½” the parade also featured marching bands, gymnasts and dancers.

The event kicked off a busy Saturday slate for Peachfest, which will welcome Ontario rockers Honeymoon Suite to Okanagan Lake Park at 9:30 p.m.

Peachfest's final day is Sunday.