Performers demonstrate Gatka, a traditional Sikh martial art, during festivities in Yuba City on Sunday, Nov. 1. Photos by Chris Pedigo

YUBA CITY, CA (MPG) - Thousands gathered in Yuba City on Sunday, Nov. 1, for the 47th annual Sikh Festival and Parade, a three-day celebration of faith, culture and community that has become one of the region's largest annual traditions.

Hosted by Gurdwara Sahib Yuba City at 2468 Tierra Buena Road, the celebration attracted visitors from across the United States and abroad for several days of prayer, music, food and fellowship.

Founded by the late Didar Singh Bains, the annual gathering has grown into one of the largest Sikh celebrations in the United States, drawing visitors from throughout California and countries including Canada, England and India.

Thousands gather for religious observances during Yuba City's annual Sikh Festival on Sunday, Nov. 1. Photos by Chris Pedigo

The festivities culminated Sunday with Nagar Kirtan, a 4.5-mile religious procession traveling along Tierra Buena Road, Butte House Road, Civic Center Boulevard, Poole Boulevard and Tharp Road before returning to the temple.

At the center of the procession was the Guru Granth Sahib, the Sikh holy scripture, which followers regard as their living guru. A decorated float carried the scripture through the streets as religious hymns, known as kirtan, were sung and participants walked alongside.

A helicopter showered rose petals over the procession, while participants and spectators gathered along the route to observe the celebration. Festivities also included Gatka, a traditional Sikh martial art, and an abundance of free food prepared by community volunteers.

A father and son pose beside a motorcycle during the annual Sikh Festival and Parade in Yuba City on Sunday, Nov. 1. Photos by Chris Pedigo

The distribution of food reflects langar, a Sikh tradition of providing free meals to anyone, regardless of faith or background. Throughout the festival, families and community groups prepared and served meals, beverages and snacks to visitors at no charge.

The gathering also provided an opportunity to practice seva, or selfless service. Volunteers, known as sevadars, helped prepare meals, organize activities and clean the streets following the procession.

Sikhism emphasizes equality, humility and service to others, principles reflected throughout the celebration. While the festival attracts large crowds and offers a public display of Sikh culture, Nagar Kirtan remains a religious observance centered on prayer, devotion and community service.

Photographer Chris Pedigo captured scenes from Sunday's celebration, including families enjoying the festivities, volunteers preparing and distributing food, religious observances and traditional martial arts demonstrations.

Young volunteers serve fries as part of the festival's tradition of providing free food to attendees. Photos by Chris Pedigo