The Ripon Chamber of Commerce is expecting a strong turnout for this weekend’s 63rd annual Almond Blossom Festival.
Couple that with the forecast calling for comfortable temperatures hovering in the low 70s.
Today’s parade promises to be among the highlights of the festival.
According to the Ripon Chamber of Commerce, the parade is also one of the biggest and most cherished events.
“We’re are hoping it will be bigger than ever,” said the Chamber via social media.
The parade kicks off at 1 p.m. with Cal Crush serving as this year’s grand marshal – in honor of the local business, this year’s theme is “Cal Crush: Celebrating 25 years of Crushing it.”
Decorated floats, unique vehicles, horses, musical acts, and the Royal Court featuring the newly-crowned ABF Queen / Miss Ripon will be part of the parade festivities.
The parade route will once again begin in downtown Main Street and South Stockton Avenue, going west and turn south on Vera Avenue, and along the home stretch west on Fourth Street just past the Ripon Community Center.
Along with the parade, the three-day event — which began on Thursday — includes the carnival, vendors, live music, food, the Fun Run, Diaper Derby, and variety of community events around town.
The carnival and vendor fair will once again take place at the Mistlin Sports Park, 1201 River Rd. Including will be family-friendly carnival rides along with an estimated 100 vendor booths offering a variety of foods, arts and crafts, and informational items.
Cost for parking is $5 (cash-only, with proceeds going to non-profit organizations) while there is no fee to enter the vendor area.
Tickets for carnival rides will be available at the carnival ticket booth for those who didn’t purchase the discounted presale unlimited ride wristbands.
Pets are allowed but must be on a leash.
No alcohol will be permitted in the park at any time.
Carnival hours will be from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday; and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday.
Vendor hours will be from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday; and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday.
For more information, call the Ripon Chamber of Commerce at 209-599-7519.
