It's Westerner Park's signature event and Central Alberta's largest summer gathering.

The Westerner Days Fair and Exposition kicked off this morning with a parade through downtown Red Deer.

 It was a pleasant sight for Westerner Park president Damian Zapisocky.

“It was fantastic to see all the little kids out, the seniors and everyone in between. It was fantastic. Great crowd today,” Zapisocky said.

“We’re expecting to break the 100,000 mark this year so we’re excited and hopeful that the weather holds up for us.”

The event is open until July 23, featuring rides, food and entertainment by a big-name performers including: Tom Cochrane, Coleman Hell, Chilliwack and Jess Moskaluke.

Westerner Park president Damian Zapisocky speaking at the President's Luncheon at the Prairie Pavilion on July 19 in Red Deer.