News : Party in the Park begins

Familes make their way down 4th Street during the Kiddie Parade.

Nash Davis drives the Kiddie Parade route with little brother Tripp.

Viking football players toss small signed footballs into the crowd.

Norina Butler enjoys a hot dog before the Kiddie Parade begins.

Dane Lutz rides in the parade.

Eli Fairbanks drives 'Mater' as he pulls another child in the parade.

Children and bikes fill the Farmers Bank parking lot as the Kiddie Parade is about to begin.

Maryn Purdy, 3, applauds the jugglers from mom Wendy's shoulders; dad Matt is on the right.

The rain stayed away and the crowds filled the parking lot at Farmers Bank, Fourth Street and the courthouse lawn Thursday evening for the beginning of the 2014 Party in the Park.

After the free dinner of hot dogs and chips at the bank, the children rode bikes, scooters and other vehicles to the courthouse, where jugglers, music and a variety of activities awaited.

The three-day celebration continues Friday with the Party in Pink 5K, then more activities at Riverside Park.

See more photos HERE.