Thousands of people are expected to converge on the town for the 57th annual Blossom Festival. Festival chairwoman Clair Higginson said the event had ''a special essence'' - a feel-good factor, because so many volunteers joined forces to make it a success.
A vast array of entertainment had been arranged and the main focus of the activities would be the float procession tomorrow, which would also feature vintage cars, hot rods, pipe bands and community groups, she said.
''As for the weather ... we'll keep our fingers crossed for a good day.''
Tonight's highlights include the popular Round the Clock Race and the Mardi Gras. For the first time, the Mardi Gras will be held in the Linger and Die reserve, instead of Tarbert St, and a fireworks display will round off the evening.
Arts and craft displays and sports events will provide more entertainment over the weekend, along with the Alexandra Musical Society's show Buddy - The Buddy Holly Story.
Central Otago police sub-area supervisor Senior Sergeant Ian Kerrisk said police would have a ''strong presence'' at the festival.
''This is a very family-focused event and we don't want the friendly atmosphere to be disturbed by disorderly behaviour or breaches of the liquor ban, so you can expect the police to be highly visible, to ensure it remains a trouble-free weekend, as it has been in the last few years.''
