Hopes are high for a bright, sunshine filled spring day when Max's Mardi Gras parade rolls through Brockport, coordinator Bill Andrews said.

Festival and parade planners have a full schedule of activities planned for all who attend. From climbing walls to antique cars, Dixieland Bands and face painting, the event once again promises something for everyone.

"The festival kicks off when the parade reaches Special Olympic Park," Andrews said. He said everything should be underway by 11 a.m.

"Children Giving Peace A Chance," is the theme of this year's event. The parade was begun following a "Make A Wish" dream by Max Monaghan - he was unable to attend Mardi Gras festivities in New Orleans because of his HIV-positive status so he brought the festivities to Brockport for all of his friends and family to enjoy with him. The event has grown during each year, Andrew said. "The event has drawn the community together."

The Brockport High School hockey team will lead the parade in honor of their successes at the state championship.

Following the parade, which begins at 10 a.m., the field of Special Olympic Park will be jammed with bands: two Dixieland Bands - Johnny Matt and the Beale Street Bandwagon; Julie Dunlap's country and western band, the high school marching band, the Excelsior Brigade and the Gates Police Pipes and Drums band.

An inflatable castle maze, rock climbing slide, an Excalibur castle and a multiple sports challenge are four new children's events lined up this year, Andrews said. "We're also going to have face painting, sand and scrap art for the kids."

The Cake Walk will appeal to those with a sweet tooth and when families just want to sit and relax, Lauren Kelly, vice president of the Brockport Student Government, will be reading fairy tales.

Antique and classic cars will be on display along with antique farm tractors. Andrews said the Brockport Police Department will have their extricator and state police will have either their roll over demonstrator or a seat belt demonstrator available for viewing.

For the brave of heart there will be a scales and tails reptile show, Andrews said.

Genesee Country Museum will be hosting old fashioned games, McCracken Farms will offer wagon rides and the SUNY Brockport Judo Club will be doing demonstrations.

"If it's severely inclement weather we'll have a reduced program in Cooper Hall," Andrews said.

Line up for the parade will begin at 9:30 a.m. on Market Street and the parade will step off at 10 a.m. on April 26.

"This has been a tremendous event," Andrews explained. "The first year we had 1,100 parade participants and more than 4,000 people lined the streets. This year promises to be just as extravagant."