SOUTH BEND, Ind. (AP) — South Bend started celebrating its upcoming 150th birthday by having people carry an Olympic-style flaming torch through the city over the weekend.

South Bend 150 committee chairman Aaron Perri told the South Bend Tribune the event is the kickoff of the birthday month for the northern Indiana city. Each torch bearer had the option of running, walking or carrying the torch while riding in a Studebaker vehicle.

Perri says the torch run was intended to build enthusiasm and awareness about the upcoming May 22-24 South Bend birthday weekend celebration. That celebration on Memorial Day weekend will include an Olympic-style opening ceremony, fireworks, music, art events, sports, a car show, food booths and an unveiling of the new South Bend River Lights sculpture.