Parade draws crowds

Hundreds of people lined the streets Sunday to watch the annual Welland Rose Festival Grande Parade.

Despite a shortened parade route, people were optimistic about the event. Wellander Josh Ramunno said he didn’t think the shortened route was a negative. He said it’s better because children can sometimes become restless if it is too long.

It was the first time he had brought his sons Jacksen, 4, and Caleb, 2, to the parade. Ramunno said they seemed excited to be there.

The parade showcases community groups, bands and other participants each year.

Bobbi-Jo Thomson said she was enjoying the performance from the Niagara Roller Girls. A group of women and girls inline skated their way downtown performing stunts.

Thomson said it was the first time attending the parade and she would come again next year. Her sister Tammy Armstrong, from Niagara Falls, agreed that the event was worth coming out to.

“It’s nice to see so many groups represented,” Armstrong said.

The parade began behind city hall making its way to the Welland Arena on King Street.

Eventgoers enjoyed a celebration of the 100th year of Welland’s incorporation.

The event was hosted by the Welland Snowmobile Club and showcased music from Stonewall.

PHOTOS BY MICHELLE ALLENBERG/WELLAND TRIBUNE A float participant from Falun Dafa waves at the crowd during the annual Welland Rose Festival Grande Parade Sunday afternoon.

A boy makes bubbles as part of a float created by Egger Truck and Machine Ltd.

A clown waves at eventgoers during the annual Welland Rose Festival Grande Parade Sunday afternoon.

The town crier rings a bell at the beginning of the annual Welland Rose Festival Grande Parade Sunday afternoon.

A group of people on a float wave at the crowd Sunday afternoon during the parade.