The 66th Annual Water Festival kicked off in Three Rivers with its parade Thursday evening, a well-loved tradition that brings crowds to line the roads, wave at the floats as they pass by, and collect candy.
Cool weather didn’t discourage attendees from taking in the sights and sounds of around 70 entries in this year’s event, many of which were decked out with this year’s tropical theme. Included in the lineup were local businesses and organizations, two marching bands, local sports teams, classic tractors, as well as candidates for the office of sheriff and one for mayor.
Deborah Haak-Frost is the Caretaker for Community Engagement at GilChrist Retreat Center in Three Rivers, and volunteers with *culture is not optional, a Three Rivers-based community development organization.
