And the day itself did not disappoint, as a crowd of about 10,000 was treated to another baking hot summer’s day as well as an assortment of stalls, inflatable slides, food vendors, classic car displays and helicopter rides.
To keep cool, some children opted to take to the water — or at least splash each other on an inflatable bumper boat ride, including Jerrica Whitfield’s son Brody (5).
Mrs Whitfield, of Dunedin, said it was the first time in "years" she had been to Brighton’s gala day, but the event was impressive.
"We thought it was a nice day, so we would come out. It’s much bigger than last time we were here."
Rosie Hill, a Brighton resident, said she and her children came to the gala day every year.
Organiser Colin Weatherall said a stifling day was made more comfortable by an afternoon sea breeze.
"It’s been a good, positive day. It was not without its challenges, but you can expect that."
He imagined there might be complaints about long queues for the toilets, he said.
However, the day was "pretty good" in terms of parking.
"We’ve had great support in the community considering the pressure we put on this little town, but it’s just for one day a year.
"It was a jam-packed schedule."
