Protesters raise anti-WTO banners during a protest as thousands of anti-globalization activists march in the streets of Hong Kong

Thousands of anti-globalization activists marched in the streets of Hong Kong Sunday as the city prepares to host the World Trade Organization's (WTO) annual summit.

The peaceful two-hour march by nearly 4,000 protesters was said to have a carnival-like atmosphere, with dozens of groups holding gaudy props while wearing colorful costumes.

The march was the first of three large demonstrations planned for the summit.  Another will be held Tuesday when the ministerial conference kicks off.  The final protest rally is scheduled for the closing day next Sunday.

Authorities in Hong Kong have been worried about a repeat of the violence, which marred previous trade meetings in Cancun and Seattle.  Thousands of police have been put on alert for the Hong Kong summit.