Thousands of people lined the streets, soaking up the atmosphere as the community came together to continue Rodeo week celebrations.

There was a touch of nostalgia as long-time residents reminisced on the glory days of the Mardi Gras when it came through the CBD.

For many, it was a return to the past and a reminder of how the city can really turn on a cracking party.

Those involved in the revival of the event deserve to be congratulated.

They took residents and travelling party-goers back to a time when community spirit was at an all-time high, producing a remake of a successful event with a twist of originality.

It’s no surprise that those who attended the festival were raving in their reviews and were adamant the event must continue next year.

There was a fun, relaxed atmosphere and there was a family focus.

Let’s hope the success of the Street Festival doesn’t reduce numbers at the Mardi Gras tonight.

It’s a big couple of days for Mount Isa, which started with the Street Festival, continued on to the Mailman Express races yesterday and then flows into tonight’s Mardi Gras.

And that’s before we even get onto the event which the 30,000 people in the city are all waiting for.

Today officially marks the start of what Mount Isa is famous for across the globe.

Strap yourself in for three action-packed days as the best cowboys and cowgirls come together for the greatest rodeo in the Southern Hemisphere.