The CBD was blocked off from traffic as dozens of families lined the streets for the parade, marking the first full day of festival activities.
The biggest hit appeared to be the Remax float due to its open flame which let forth bursts of much appreciated heat as it passed by.
One "float" featured a cow with a large bell around its neck, while comedy value came from the Southern Man riding one horse, leading another with one dog following faithfully and a second having to be carrelled back from the crowd after needing a quick bathroom stop . . . which inadvertently hit the leg of an innocent bystander.
Cardrona ski field's Frosty the Snowman themed-float was a crowd favourite, as was the Speight's combi-van, driven by Speight's poster boy Mark Wilson, with a TV screen playing music videos while Ronald McDonald spreading the "Make it Click" message did seem to frighten some of the younger members of the crowd.
Festival action continues this afternoon with A-League Football champions the Melbourne Victory going up against the Wellington Phoenix at the Queenstown Events Centre.
Tonight the Lindauer Masquerade Ball will cater to those looking for a little glitz and glamour, while other action will see the Southern Stampede ice hockey team play its first match in a double header against the Wellington Phoenix.
