A major attraction at the long-running Penticton Peach Festival just got a little cooler.
This year's Peters Bros Grand Parade, set for Aug. 9, will feature the "Splash Zone," event organizers announced.
Located on Lakeshore Drive, between Power Street and the SS Sicamous, the zone will be a designated area where spectators and select parade participants can engage in a "good-natured water battle" using their own water blasters.
鈥淭his is all about adding a new layer of fun for families and spectators,鈥� said Peachfest president Shawna Tinga. 鈥淭he Splash Zone gives kids, and kids at heart, a chance to get involved in a safe, exciting way. We ask everyone to bring their best water blaster and their best attitude, and remember to be respectful.鈥�
As part of its announcement, event organizers also asked anyone at the splash zone to adhere to the following rules:
鈥� Only engage in water play with others who are clearly participating;
鈥� Stay along the sidelines or sidewalk area;
鈥� Do not spray members of marching bands, elected officials (including the mayor and council), royalty, or other dignitaries.
The Peters Bros Grand Parade kicks off at 10 a.m., beginning at Main Street and Eckhardt Avenue in downtown Penticton. Featuring floats from across B.C. and Washington, it serves as one of Peachfest's flagship events every year.
Parade participants will move north on Main Street before turning left on Wade Avenue, right on Winnipeg Street, and ending with a left onto Lakeshore Drive to the Rose Garden parking lot.
Parking is not allowed anywhere along the route, a press release from the event reads.
"This lively and colourful parade lasts approximately 90 minutes, so spectators are encouraged to bring sunscreen, a hat, water, and a chair to settle in and enjoy the show," it continued.
People are also invited to start the festivities early by heading to the Penticton Elks Club for a pancake and sausage breakfast, starting at 8 a.m. The club is located at 343 Ellis St.
runs from Aug. 6 to 10. The free event will include live music, entertainment, and special performances from the Canadian Forces Skyhawks Parachute Team and Royal Canadian Air Force Snowbirds.
