POST FALLS — Post Falls High School football players gathered around a giant American flag Saturday morning.

They gently unfurled Old Glory and lifted her above their heads to carry in the Post Falls Festival Parade, careful to never let her touch the ground.

“I love that they get to stand up and show pride for their community and their country,” said Katie Marmon, whose son, incoming senior Caden Marmon, is a linebacker on the varsity team.

"They dedicate some time to just give back to Post Falls," she said.

Sharlene Hickerson, whose son Ashton Hickerson plays as a defensive end, said the community supports the team, and the team reciprocates that support.

"My son always says he just wants to be a part of the community and show support for wherever he can," she said.

Football moms, grandparents, veterans, parents, couples, candy-seeking kids and festive canines were among the many who enjoyed the Post Falls Festival Parade, which featured nearly 60 entries that rolled along Seltice Way from Spokane Street to Idaho Street.

Carrie and Riley Petersen brought 6-year-old daughter Becca to the parade. They enjoyed a shady spot on a lawn near Henry Street.

"It still has the hometown feeling,” said Riley, who grew up in a tiny southeastern Idaho town near Wyoming.

Becca smiled as she shared her favorite part of the parade.

"Getting candy," she said.

Several parade entries tossed lollipops, Tootsie Rolls and other treats to the kids, who madly dashed in and out of the street to fill their bags with goodies.

The Daughters of the American Revolution Lt. George Farragut Chapter float featured the Committees of Correspondence and a cardboard cutout of Founding Father Sam Adams. Regent Susan Snodderly explained how Adams was behind organizing the committees, which were the start of colonists banding together before the war for independence from British rule.

"They were instrumental in leading to the American Revolution,” Snodderly said. "We appreciate being able to get our name and a less-than-known historical event in front of the public. Maybe this will make people ask questions."

Post Falls sisters Cadence and Tinsley Shipp, 8 and 6, sported cool shades as they waved to those marching and rolling along the parade route.

"It’s great,” said their mom, Haley Shipp. "We used to always come when we were younger. We like to bring the girls here, we just haven’t been in a few years."

Hayley's mom and the girls' grandma, Shirley Krapf of Hauser, was also happy to enjoy the parade with her family.

“I’ve lived here since I was born and I love it," she said.

The Post Falls Festival continues today with community worship service at 10 a.m. in the Q'emiln Park Grand Pavilion, followed by food and craft vendors, live music, a beer garden and other attractions from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Q'emiln Park is at 12201 W. Parkway Drive.