The sixth annual Vaisakhi Parade will take place in Kelowna on Saturday and hundreds of people are expected to attend.

Photo Credit: KelownaNow.com

On April 30 the Okanagan Sikh Temple will play host to the event which is the celebration of the Sikh New Year. Millions of Sikhs across the world take part in the event each year with festivities that include live music, performers, food stalls and more. All members of the community are invited to attend the parade, which will begin at 11 a.m. at the Sikh Temple located at 1111 Rutland Road.

Photo Credit: KelownaNow.com

The Okanagan Sikh Temple and Cultural Society was incorporated in November 1979 and at that time there were only 34 Sikh families living in the area. The first temple in Kelowna was opened on May 30, 1982 and by the mid 1990’s the Sikh population had grown substantially. A new facility was needed and on April 26, 2009 a new temple, constructed mainly by volunteers, was opened to the public.

Photo Credit: Google MapsThe parade route for 2016.

On April 30 residents are invited to also use the social media App SnapChat as a special filter will be available during the celebrations from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m.