CITY ARTS : Flower Powered

The 29th annual Azalea Festival Parade, the highlight of South Gate’s monthlong community fair, will step off at 1 p.m. today from California Avenue down Tweedy Boulevard.

The Azalea queen and grand marshal, two senior citizens selected by the community for their civic contributions, will preside over drill teams and bands, floats and antique cars. The festival, named after the city’s official flower, also features sports tournaments, a horse show, bike rodeo, talent competition, special dinners and performances.

The festival follows a different theme each year, organizers said. This year, many events, such as King Arthurs’ Artisans Craft Show and the “Knight to Remember” dinner and show reflect the theme of “Camelot.”

If festival-goers take a close look at their souvenir program today, they will note that this year’s event is also an opportunity to honor 1992 Azalea Queen Marie Linfor, who was found murdered in February.

The program was scheduled to feature a tribute to Linfor, recognizing her life and work in the community, said Dodie Mosby, parks and recreation director. The Parks Department also has opened a scholarship fund in Linfor’s name that will help pay fees for children who cannot afford to participate in park activities, Mosby said.

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Azal e a Festival, South Gate Park, 4900 Southern Ave. , with some activities at the South Gate Sports Center, the Hollydale Park Equestrian Center and the Senior Citizens’ Clubhouse; through March 26; (213) 563-5443.