The Sunset on the Beach festivals return in a huge way this weekend, with tomorrow's Parade of Champions as the centerpiece celebrating local athletes like never before. The parade begins at 4 p.m. at Fort DeRussy and makes its way along Kalakaua Avenue to the Sunset on the Beach site at Queen's Surf Beach. There's entertainment by Imua at 5:15 p.m., then a Parade of Champions program at 5:45 p.m. on the stage; Augie T, Vili the Warrior, Nalani Choy of Na Leo, Willie K and others perform from 6:15 to 8 p.m., plus highlights of the University of Hawai'i Warrior football team's season will be screened.

Besides the football team, which won the Western Athletic Conference title outright for the first time in team history, other athletes to be honored include the UH women's soccer and volleyball teams, both of which won WAC championships, too. The football team was unbeaten this year until it fell to the Georgia Bulldogs in the Sugar Bowl. New head coach Greg McMackin is scheduled to be the grand marshal.

These high school and intermediate school champions also have been invited to participate in the parade: Leilehua, 'Iolani, Kaimuki, Wai'anae, Waipahu, Saint Louis and Word of Life. The UH Marching Band and Rainbow Dancers, Leilehua High School Band, 'Iolani School Band and the Royal Hawaiian Band will also march.

Note to motorists: The parade will cause road closures from 2 p.m. Buses also will be detoured.

Can't make it to Waikiki? KHNL will air the event live from 4:30 to 6 p.m.

And don't forget about today's Sunset on the Beach: The featured film is the animated hit "Shrek the Third," screening after sunset, about 6:15 p.m. Food booths open at 4 p.m. each day.

Admission is free. 923-1094, www.waikikiimprovement.com.