The 104th Annual Washington Parish Free Fair officially kicked off Wednesday, as the parade travelled through a crowd of thousands in downtown Franklinton.

Parade marshals Larry and Claire McQuire led the procession, followed by 2015 Fair Queen Fallon Turner. Fair honoree Kay Bell and Katherine Haik, the 2015 Miss Teen USA, were also near the front of the parade.

More than 100 entities participated in the parade, including cheerleading teams, bands and JROTC units from Washington and Tangipahoa parish area schools. Crowds lined the streets on both sides of the parade, hoping to catch candy, cups, beads and other items thrown by the riders.

The free fair continues today and Saturday, with a large variety of live entertainment at both the main stage and the Down By the Branch stage. Tonight, American Idol finalist Lindsey Cardinale will perform at the main stage at 7:15 p.m., and country star Frank Foster will follow at 9 p.m.

Saturday’s main stage entertainment includes Krossfyre at 7:30 p.m., and The Dominos Band at both 4:30 p.m. and 9:15 p.m.

During the week of the fair, 10th Avenue from Howard Street to Bene Street will be one way only into the fairgrounds. There are “No Parking” signs along 10th Avenue, as well as several new “No Parking” areas from 11th Avenue to Ellis Cemetery on Bene Street.

Also, parking on the grounds of Ellis Cemetery is not allowed. Any vehicle parked on the grounds will be towed away at the vehicle owner’s expense.