The Sikh community of Yuba City and its supporters from across the nation are set to converge this weekend for the 45th annual Sikh Parade. As the area braces for a considerable influx of people, with past estimates putting attendance numbers around 200,000, the city's infrastructure and security measures are put to the test. "We all come together for the Yuba City Nagar Kirtan," Barleen Jaswal, who traveled from Reno with her family, told ABC10, expressing the unity and cultural connection the festival fosters.

Starting Friday night with spiritual hymns and fireworks, the festival turns Yuba City into a vibrant hub of Sikh culture. Karamjit Singh Grewal, who came all the way from Chicago, emphasized the event's inclusive nature in an interview with ABC10, saying, "it doesn't matter what color you are, what race you are-- it's open to everyone so we wanted to experience that as well." The temple's grounds will be open for tours, with around a hundred food stalls set to serve free meals throughout the event, indicating the community's dedication to hospitality and sharing. According to a Sacramento Bee report, Sarb Thiara, board president of the Sikh Temple Gurdwara in Yuba City, anticipates attendance to be sizable as in the previous years.

Safety naturally becomes a top consideration with such a large gathering. Despite unsubstantiated threats of violence, security is being ramped up to ensure the well-being of all festival-goers. Multiple law enforcement agencies, including local police, sheriffs, and the FBI are on the scene, with a strong and visible presence. "Police, sheriff... the security is very good, and I see it today and all past years," Barmjit Khaira, from Sacramento, reassured in an ABC10 interview. The FBI acknowledged the threats but confirmed they are unverified, pledging concerted efforts to keep everyone safe.

Alongside the revelry, there is an unmistaken awareness and preparedness towards security. Tejinder Dosanjh, temple secretary, revealed that the temple collaborates closely with law enforcement agencies for months in advance and allocates about $700,000 on event security. "We’re all aware of it and we’re playing it very safe," noted Sarb Thiara to the Sacramento Bee, signifying the proactive security measures despite no direct threats being confirmed this year. The parade's journey begins this morning and follows a 4.5-mile route, returning to the temple in the late afternoon to wrap up a weekend of faith, culture, and unity.