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 (http://bit.ly/1GSkyzb ) 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.