A centuries-old tradition took place on Friday as the 1st Battalion Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry exercised their ‘freedom of the city’ by marching through Edmonton.

The now-ceremonial honour dates back to the 16th Century when the military in Great Britain would assure city fathers that it was friendly.

“This is the highest honour that a city can bestow upon one of its associated military units to grant freedom for them to march in the streets of the city,” said Mayor Don Iveson.

“It's a symbol of trust and obviously we have great trust in the Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry."

Friday’s march, the first in a decade, is one of the events leading to the 100th anniversary of the PPCLI.

While the parade was full of pomp and pageantry, the soldiers feel the event is a recognition of what they do.

“It means a great deal to me..for the city to have the faith in us as soldiers to march freely in the city,” said Sgt. Keith Mooney.

The Edmonton Police Pipes and Drums joined the PPCLI drum line in leading the soldiers in the march to city hall.