Music, food, fun and marching bands will bring the community together again for the 15th annual Plymouth on Parade on Sat., Sept. 29, 11:30 a.m. Bring a chair or stand along the parade route to enjoy this perennial favorite. The parade route runs down Plymouth Boulevard from 34th Avenue to 37th Avenues.
 
New groups will join returning favorites to add to this lively event. The Ha Family Lion Troupe will electrify the crowd with its larger-than-life characters that dance along to the rhythm of drums, reminiscent of a Chinese New Year parade. Marching bands from Armstrong and Wayzata high schools and the Zurah Steel Drum Band will add to the exuberance. The antics of the Aqua Jester clowns will add their light touch to entertain parade-goers.
 
Free Afternoon Activities
After the parade, stay for an afternoon of free family activities from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Hilde Performance Center and the Plymouth Ice Center/Life Time Fitness area. Come inside for free ice skating, swimming and open gym. If you prefer to stay outdoors, check out face painting, pony rides, petting zoo, musical entertainment and inflatables. Be sure to cheer on your favorite duck at the Ducky Derby Race, sponsored by Minnetonka-Plymouth Rotary.
 
Firefighter 5K: Get a Jump on the Fun
Before the parade, start out the day with a brisk run or leisurely stroll in the 8th annual Plymouth Firefighters 5K Run/Walk, or bring the kids for the Kids Fun Run. The 5K begins at 9 a.m., with registration and check-in from 7:30 to 8:45 a.m. The run begins at Plymouth Fire Station II, 12000 Old Rockford Rd.
 
The 5K registration fee is $20 for entries received through Sept. 14, and then $25 through the morning of the race. All 5K participants receive a long sleeved t-shirt, and awards are given to the top three men and women finishers. Registrations received through Sept. 27 are eligible for door prizes. Register online at active.com, event # 2024416.
 
The Kids Fun Run is free. It includes a half and full mile option. It starts at 10 a.m. There will be a gift for all kids who cross the finish line.