It comes around once a year, and when it does it's just a couple hours long. But it's one of the most intense and engaging two-hour periods in the city.
"It" is the Penticton Vaisakhi parade. The 2023 edition is just days away, starting at noon on Sunday, May 7 at the Penticton Sikh Temple at 3290 South Main St.
And everyone, regardless of age, ethnicity, nationality, or religious affiliation (or lack of religious affiliation) is welcome to join in the fun.
"Vaisakhi," said Temple and parade spokesperson Baljit Bhuhi, who many will know as owner of the popular Samosa Express food truck, "is the anniversary of the day when our tenth guru, Guru Gobind Singh, created Khalsa."
It's also a time to celebrate spring harvest. Ultimately, Vaisakhi is just a huge deal to the global Sikh community.
This year, the parade will follow the same route it did in 2022, starting at the Temple and snaking its way through neighbouring streets for the better part of two hours, traveling south on Main to Yorkton, along Yorkton to Wilson, along Wilson to Green, then back to the Temple.
Last year, said Bhuhi, approximately 2,000 people participated in the parade. He expects that number to increase in 2023.
"It'll be bigger," he said," with more floats and more people. That's what we're hoping to do -- to grow it every year."
Parade spectators can expect lots of freebies too -- stuff like fruit, juice boxes, chips, water and the like. And if they feel the urge, there'll be a float offering turbans and turban-tying.
But the parade is just one of the day's activities. The arguably more compelling part happens back at the Temple, where a six-hour-long festival of (primarily Indian) food runs from 10 am to 4 pm. It's free, it's totally yummy, and it's seemingly non-stop.
And anyone can join in. Head scarves are not required, nor is any religious affiliation.
"Just respect each other and have a good time," says Bhuhi.
Note that under City regulations, the Vaisakhi Parade must keep one lane free throughout its route. Spectators are asked to do what they can to help out.
Also note that parking near the Temple and parade start point will be extremely tight. Attendees are advised to park a few blocks away, bike or walk.
For more info, go here.
