Horns resonated down South Third Street, while drill teams clicked their shoes and about 1,500 parade participants shared their Renton pride.

Rows of folding chairs lined the road. The about 10,000 people, a number police and organizers guess at, filled downtown Renton to kick off the Renton River Days Saturday events.

“Just another great draw to the city of Renton, for sure,” said Renton’s Brett Cooley, who discovered the festival for the first time this year.

The parade ended at Liberty Park, where some local restaurants offered their best as a part of the Nibble of Renton.

Sunny skies brought the temperature to about 86 degrees, though occasional cloud cover provided temporary relief throughout the day, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Two stages offered varying music styles and entertainment.

“You get a lot of local performers,” Cooley said, who enjoyed the music the most.

Local crafters sold artwork and handmade goods at the art market. Kids sought out streamers, dolls and sparkly wreaths.

“It’s very likely we’ll see increase attendance, because of the economy and because people are staying closer to home,” said River Days director, Sonja Mejlaender. About 40,000 people were expected to attend the event.

At the nearby Renton Community Center, a more intimate art show lured passersby with relaxing music and framed artwork.

During Saturday’s events, 44 adults and about 15 juniors sketched chalk drawings on the tennis courts as a part of Allied Arts’ free chalk-art competition.

“It’s a different medium then what most kids use,” said Vicki Navarro, who organized the event. “Everyone has a lot of fun.”

River Days events run through Sunday, with continued stage entertainment and the Rubber-Ducky Derby.

Renton Reporter staff writer Celeste Gracey can be reached at 425-255-3484, ext. 5052.