The 2015 Shoalhaven River Festival kicked off in the morning with the annual parade.

The main streets of Nowra were lined with smiling faces as supporting businesses and community groups dressed in their brightest clothes to parade down the street and signalled the beginning of the weekend’s festivities.

From 11.30am the stalls opened on Scenic Drive and the marina was buzzing with tour boats and a seaplane.

The jumping castles were crammed with children and families found shady spots by the river to watch the array of water sport displays including, canoe polo, stand up paddle boarding and dragon boat racing.

The real action kicked off at 2.30pm when the Macey’s Water Display began with a splash. Spectators were warned if they were too close they were in danger of a rogue jet ski causing mischief. When the water sprayed over the top of a group of onlookers the squeals of delight set the mood for the rest of the show.

Wake boarders showed off their best tricks and a Navy Squirrel and MRH90 aircraft even made a fly-by appearance.

On stage local artists and school groups performed, which will include Liam Maihi later on Saturday.

Festivities are set to continue throughout the day and will finish with a fireworks display.

Local Lucy Schreurs said the fireworks were a highlight for her last year and she hoped they lived up to the high standard again this year.

She said the event had been a lot of fun and she noticed there were a lot more people and a larger variety of stalls on offer this year too.

Sunday will mark the first Shoalhaven Colour Run.