The 26th annual Simi Valley Days celebration will kick off on Sat., Sept. 11 with a 5K/10K race, followed by the annual parade with floats, equestrians, bands, dignitaries and local groups.

This year’s theme is “The ’60s Turn 50,” and in the spirit of the decade of peace and love, organizers have plenty of freeflowing fun planned.

The five-day event will run from Sept. 15 through 19 at Rancho Simi Community Park, also known as Duck Park.

It’s been three years since the citywide celebration was relocated from the corner of Los Angeles Avenue and Madera Road, and those involved are still relishing the change.

“I think back a couple of years ago and Simi Valley Days was kind of tainted because of the location and entertainment,” said Michael John, entertainment chair for the event. “But we’ve pretty much given Simi Valley Days a facelift, so I encourage everybody to come and check it out.”

Event chair Gordon Voshall said the park provides a cleaner area and more room for entertainment like carnival rides.

“The carnival rides are definitely a favorite, so this year we wanted to expand on how many we had to offer,” Voshall said.

The annual parade is at 9 a.m. on Sept. 11. It will run west on Los Angeles Avenue from Erringer to Sinaloa roads.

Karaoke will be offered on the main stage from 6 to 9 p.m. Wed., Sept. 15 for anybody who wants to try.

Classic country music will be showcased the evening of Thurs., Sept. 16 with two shows by Cody Bryant. Sept. 17 will feature a show by Alex Nester, a finalist on last season’s “American Idol.”

Local talent will play in “Kidsapalooza!” the afternoon of Sat., Sept. 18. Three teen bands will take part in Battle of the Bands at 6 p.m., competing for a $2,000 grand prize. Tasty Thieves will close out Saturday evening with current hits and classics for all ages.

The Latin band Opa Opa will present salsa music in two shows at 5 and 6:45 p.m. Sun., Sept. 19.

The festival will also have a merchant fair, children’s games, food vendors, beer booths, bingo and Kowchip Bingo.

Overflow parking will be available at Royal High School and the Church of the Nazarene, 1925 Royal Ave.

Shuttle service will be provided every half hour from the school from 4:30 to 10 p.m. Friday, 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday and 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday.

“What we’re trying to do, in addition to mixing it up, is not spend as much money but still put on a great quality event,” John said. “Because the bottom line is, it all goes back to charity.”

For more information, go to www.simivalleydays.org.