It was all smiles in Vernon on Saturday afternoon during the Vernon Winter Carnival Parade as participants brought the streets to life with colorful floats, decorated cars, sirens and music.

The parade took a pandemic break, but 70 groups came out to foster community spirit with entries of all kinds, including several fire departments, local businesses and the Vernon Girls Trumpet Band all marching down the route.

Hundreds of people lined 27th Street, 30th Avenue and 31st Street to celebrate the comeback after the year-long hiatus.

“It’s a really fun community event and for the girls, they get to see all the characters,” said Claire Smith, who watched the parade with her family.

Isabelle Clément joined the crowd to encourage her friend.

“My friend is supposed to come here on horseback,” Clement said.

For the kids there were some clear favorites such as seeing the horses, the dancers and of course getting free candy.

“Candy and see everyone,” said 9-year-old Keianna Smith.

“Seeing everyone is really fun,” 9-year-old Annie Smith said.

The parade is the official launch event for the Vernon Winter Carnival, where 100 events take place over 10 days, both virtually and in person. For more information on what’s in store, visit their website www.vernonwintercarnival.com

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