UTICA — Spectators eagerly awaited the parade opening of the 36th Annual Utica Old Fashion Ice Cream Festival on Saturday morning.

“I see it, I see it. The ice cream truck is coming,” said 2-year-old Leanne Schnabel of Newark.

Kicking off the parade were Velvet Ice Cream vehicles with employees passing out free ice cream treats to spectators.

As little Leanne grabbed a cup of Ben & Jerry’s Chocolate Fudge Brownie from a variety of flavors, she immediately started to tear open the top, but had to receive help.

“Umm, yummy,” she said taking her first bite.

The sun heated the day but visitors watched over 200 parade entries.