Sunny, pleasant conditions that provided a perfect backdrop for opening ceremonies of the Homes on Parade Thursday will continue through the weekend as the parade opens to the public Saturday.

Nearly 600 people attended Thursday's invitation only VIP night at the 12th annual parade sponsored by the Builders Association of Kosciusko and Fulton Counties.

This year's parade features seven homes constructed by seven builders in Deeds Creek, a subdivision located on CR 225E north of CR 75N in Warsaw. This year, spectators will enter the parade through a merchant's tent with a record number 26 booths.

This year's developer is Dave Creighton.

Highlighting Thursday's opening ceremonies were the awards ceremonies.

T.L. Jackson Construction, Syracuse, was the big winner, capturing the "best overall" award. Finishing second in the overall category was Legacy Homes, Warsaw.

The Jackson home is a 2,517- square-foot two-story featuring a steel frame construction. The company also won first place for best landscaping and exterior design.

Terry Shepherd Construction, a first-time entrant in the parade, won best interior design/floor plan.

Freeman Builders of Warsaw finished first in interior design. Jackson was second.

Legacy also finished second in the interior design/floor plan category and exterior design.

Porter Construction of Pierceton finished second in landscaping.

Spectators will be able to view the seven featured homes daily through Sept. 14.

Cost of the event is $4 for teens and adults and $1 for children 6 to 12. Weekday hours are 3 to 8 p.m. Weekend hours are 1 to 8 p.m., except Sept. 14, when hours are 1 to 6 p.m. [[In-content Ad]]