One million. That’s how many people have attended the Jensen Beach Pineapple Festival since its inception in 1988, according to Ron Rose, executive director of the Jensen Beach Chamber of Commerce.

“This year’s Pineapple Festival will be among the best,” Rose said proudly. “It will be another unforgettable family experience.”

To those who’ve never attended the festival — or may not be aware of this year’s featured performing artists and scheduled events — it would be easy to dismiss Rose’s enthusiasm as biased exaggeration.

It isn’t.

One of South Florida’s most-anticipated street parties returns today and continues through Sunday. And if the event’s 22-year history is any indicator of what will unfold this weekend, attendees can rightfully anticipate a delightful, memorable experience.

Musical headliners include Pat Green, Julianne Hough, Honor Society and B-Liminal. The festival has a unique relationship with Gregory Town, Bahamas — its sister city in the Caribbean — and two of the Bahamas’ most popular bands, The Brilanders and Eleuthera Express, will be performing on the Bahamas Celebration Stage throughout the weekend.

In-between the seemingly nonstop musical celebrations, there are numerous events, exhibits, performances and concessions for people of all ages to enjoy.

Youngsters, in particular, will want to observe “Maximum Velocity,” a pro-BMX bicycle and skateboard stunt team, and enjoy midway rides provided by Doolan Amusements.

Nine businesses and organizations — the festival’s “Crown” sponsors — have helped to make this year’s event a reality: Stuart Business Systems, Designs With Impact, Pitchford’s Landing, Premier Party Rentals, Courtyard by Marriott, Vistana’s Beach Club, Ampersand Graphics, Wachovia: a Wells Fargo Company, and the Martin County Tourist Development Council.

Proceeds from the festival will benefit the chamber, several community projects, scholarships and nonprofit organizations.

Martin County is fortunate to have an annual event of the magnitude of the Pineapple Festival.

An estimated 50,000 people will take to the streets of downtown Jensen Beach this weekend.

Will you be one of them?