Members of a local youth football program take part in the Nicolaus Labor Day Parade on Sept. 3 in Nicolaus. Photo by Chris Pedigo

NICOLAUS, CA (MPG) - Labor Day offers a chance to step away from work and spend time with friends, family and community.

Here at the Territorial Dispatch, we did much the same, taking Monday off, but community photographer Chris Pedigo was still hard at work capturing the sights of the 35th annual Nicolaus Labor Day Parade.

The longtime community tradition brings together local families, schools and organizations each year while raising support for area schools and community groups. Please enjoy this selection of photos showcasing the small-town spirit of this year’s Nicolaus Labor Day Parade.

A blue-ribbon squash sits on display during Labor Day festivities on Sept. 3 in Nicolaus. Photo by Chris Pedigo