After many years' absence, the George Fuller Pet Parade will return to Okanogan for Harvest Fest as a continuation of the city's 2007 centennial celebrations, according to an announcement from the Okanogan Centennial Planning Committee.
The parade will begin at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 13, at Okanogan City Hall. Lineup will be at 8:15 a.m., said committee member Carolyn Clayton.
Part of the parade's path will be through the midst of Harvest Fest vendors on Second Avenue. Dozens of homemade, home-grown items will be available for sale before and after the parade.
This year's theme will be "Pioneers and Patriotism," according to Clayton.
The pet parade, brainchild of Okanogan barber George Fuller, began in 1938. It's for children to present their pets in the community and compete for prizes.
Clayton said judging categories are best theme entry (mayor's choice), bike, tricycle or wagon, float, costumed pet, walking group, horse and pony, fowl and other (for any animals not falling under other categories).
Organizers also will give out the best overall entry prize - the George Fuller award.
Cash prizes will be given, she said. All winners also will receive ribbons.
Pre-registration is encouraged, although not necessary, she said. Forms are available at Okanogan schools, Rawson's, J and S Drug, Okanogan City Hall and Derina's Flower Basket.
Sponsoring the parade this year are the American Legion, the parade's first sponsor in 1938, plus the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Okanogan Chamber of Commerce and the centennial committee.
Centennial celebrations will continue until the actual anniversary of Okanogan's incorporation Oct. 29.
