Torchlight Parade
Where: Begins at Seattle Center and continues south down Fourth Avenue to Second Avenue and King Street
When: Saturday, July 27, 7:30 p.m.
How much: Bleachers start at $20, Westlake bleachers $30. Group discounts and hospitality seats available.
Where to call: SEAFAIR (206) 728-0123

A reassurance of summer in Seattle, the Southwest Airlines Torchlight Parade at SEAFAIR has always been a seasonal cornerstone in the Northwest. With more than 100 official entrants, including animated floats; marching (and other) bands, foot-stomping drill teams and all the expected trappings of a street parade, there's something for everyone.

Featured in the parade will be Macy's-style helium balloons so big they require about 20 handlers each, Miss SEAFAIR, military drill teams, high school marching bands and cheer squads, the SPD's motorcycle drill team and a whole lot more.

If you want a good view, get there early. You'll see deck chairs and spot-reserving blankets peppering the sidewalks early in the morning.