Tapanui was buzzing with anticipation yesterday as it prepared for the arrival of the 2013 Otago Goldfields Cavalcade this morning.
This year's event has been dubbed the ''Panning the Pomahaka'' cavalcade, and all trails will converge on Tapanui today.
Otago Goldfields Cavalcade co-ordinator Terry Davis said all eight trails had an ''excellent'' week.
''It's been one of the best weeks for weather that the cavalcade has ever had - a whole week of good weather.''
All trails were on track to arrive on time today, he said.
The host town committee was busy setting up for the family carnival at the West Otago A&P Showgrounds on State Highway 90 near Tapanui, Mr Davis said.
''The grounds are a hive of activity - it's going to be a fantastic event.''
The grand parade will start at noon in front of the grandstand, and a mass photo of all trail participants will be taken shortly afterwards.
Events include the carnival, a parade and a dinner followed by a hoedown.
''Tractor dancing'', barrel racing, karate demonstrations and performances by Kaitangata musician Aaron Jury would also form part of the carnival day. More than 40 stallholders had already registered.
The New Zealand Army Band will play and Wanaka musician Jody Direen will provide entertainment at the hoedown.
