The 47th Annual Pioneer Parade marked the beginning of the Pioneer Days in Steinbach this Friday.

Michelle Bezditny with the Steinbach Chamber of Commerce says the parade ran really smoothly with a total of 130 entries this year.

“We really appreciated the entries, the floats, the businesses, and the organizations for keeping the gaps small or to a minimum. We did have a little bit of feedback already that the feel and the flow of the parade seem to be wonderful this year.”

Besditny says as a parade marshal she was at the very back of the procession and she notes there were still lots kids waving and people sitting in their lawn chairs. She notes it didn't seem like anyone was in a hurry to leave.

Bezditny says the weather was perfect for the parade.

“I kept checking the weather. The weather helps people come out. Chairs were set up early on the street. The weather plays a huge part in the success of the event.”

Bezditny says there were definitely a few floats that took the More For You Here-Discover the Spirit of Steinbach theme to heart. She adds it was great working with all of the entries.

“We just appreciate working together with the businesses and organizations in and around the community and in the Southeast and we look forward to a great celebration again next year.”

The Steinbach Chamber of Commerce handed out awards in six different categories. The winners were:

Best Scene - Loewen
Judges Choice - Hylife
Equestrian - Fairway Ford
Youth Entry - Springs Church
Antique Farm - Southeast Implements
Antique Vehicle - MHV


Loewen Windows Float


Hylife Parade Float


Fairway Ford Entry


Springs Church Float


Southeast Implements Entry


Mennonite Heritage Village Entry