AZ centennial kicks off with Best Fest

Posted: Feb 12, 2012 9:01 AM Updated: Feb 12, 2012 1:01 PM

The state rolled out a festival over the weekend leading up to Tuesday, when the state will officially turn 100 years old.

Saturday’s Best Fest events started off with thousands of bikers riding down the Loop 202. The long line of riders could be seen filling the roadways all the way down to the state Capitol.

Once there, they joined the hundreds of people enjoying the activities. The festival offered a fun look at Arizona state history.

Children of all ages got to try their hand at panning for gold. There were also an old-fashioned stage coach and an up-close look at the Buffalo Solders that used to ride around the state from its start as a territory until past its statehood.

Saturday night, festival goers also got to enjoy music performances from two Arizona stars – the Gin Blossoms and Michelle Branch.

The Best Fest continues Sunday in front of the Capitol.