Post Falls octogenarian Kathryn Robison will take a ride back in time Saturday when she serves as parade marshal of the first Historic Wallace Accordion Festival.

She will lead the celebration parade in a restored World War II Jeep driven and owned by Silver Valley businessman Scott Hall. Following her will be dozens of accordion-toting musicians - some walking and some riding in a trolley or cars - plus local groups and individuals.

The parade begins at 9 a.m. from the Wallace Elks Lodge at Fifth and Cedar streets. Parade music will be available to those who wish to bring their accordions and join in.

Historic Wallace Chamber of Commerce President Scott Lasley said Robison was selected as marshal to recognize her years as a USO entertainer at military hospitals and installations following World War II and during the Korean War.

Robison, who at 83 continues to entertain at North Idaho nursing homes, will also play the piano during intermission at Friday night's accordion concert.

Headlining the 6 p.m. concert at Wallace High School will be the "king of accordion rock 'n' roll" Bruce Gassman from New Jersey and Hollywood's "accordion princess," Big Lou. Spokane musicians Rick and Eileen Webber will perform a military tribute.

After the parade, the festival continues with polka lessons by Silver Valley dance teacher Joni Damiano Bartel. Cost is $5 per person.

A variety of music-related workshops led by professional accordionists will be offered at 10 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m. at various downtown locations. Amateur musicians are invited to seek their 15 minutes of fame by performing in the city gazebo throughout the afternoon.

The Saturday evening concert will feature 26-year-old jazz accordionist Cory Pesaturo, winner of two recent international competitions, and Andy Mirkovich, longtime performer at the Space Needle Restaurant in Seattle.

Gassman will also play. Saturday's intermission music will be provided by The Debonairs, a Silver Valley barbershop quartet. Griff Ziegler of Post Falls will be the master of ceremonies for both concerts.

Ticket information is available at www.wallaceidahochamber.com or by calling (208) 753-7151.