The Princes Hwy and surrounding streets were closed to traffic as jovial crowds, buoyed by blue skies, enjoyed rides, live music acts, market stalls and a dizzying selection of foods. 

Corrimal Chamber of Commerce president Paul Boultwood said crowd numbers had well-exceeded previous years, estimating between 50,000 and 55,000 people had attended.

‘‘It was a fantastic day,’’ he said.

‘‘It well and truly cemented Spring Into Corrimal as the largest free one-day family festival in Australia.’’

Corrimal residents Brooke and Brett Townsend spent the whole morning at the festival and by 1pm were doing their best to keep up with energetic youngsters Chloe, 5, and Mason, 3.

‘‘I don’t know who needs to have a nap more this afternoon, the kids or me,’’ Mr Townsend said.

Mrs Townsend said a highlight of the day had been watching Chloe march with her schoolmates in the morning parade.

Jill Walker was still full of energy by early afternoon, waving animatedly to granddaughter Alleira as the four-year-old flew around on The Crazy Flyer ride.

A number of the Walker brood descended on Sunday’s festival and Ms Walker said she was impressed with the lively family-friendly atmosphere.

‘‘This is a safe environment where the older kids can wander and run into all their mates, it’s a community,’’ she said.

It was also an opportunity for some of the children taking part in the march to learn some important life skills, such as discipline and patience, Ms Walker said.

Stephanie Privett-Nelson was named Corrimal citizen of the year at the event, while Valerie Hussain was runner-up.

Mr Boultwood thanked the event’s coordinators and sponsors.

‘‘I also want to thank the people of the Illawarra, they make us want to do this every year,’’ he said.