4th of July Bike Parade

4th of July is a big event in our neighborhood. For the last five years we’ve planned a big bike parade and barbecue. All the young children (usually under 12 years old) decorate their bikes, tricycles and wagons in red, white and blue. At 10:00 am on the 4th of July, everyone meets at one side of the neighborhood and the bikes take off for the park at the other end of the street. As the parade moves down the street, neighbors sit on their porches and blankets waving small flags and cheering on the kids. When they get to the park the local fireman are there to greet the children with their fire trucks. The kids and their rides are then judged in several age groups on the following criteria: best display of red, white and blue, originality, and creativity. Prizes are handed out to the winners and everyone takes home a small trophy for participating. After the award ceremony the grilling begins and families eat and celebrate under late in the afternoon. Neighbors with and without children all join in the fun and festivities.

~Megan M., Verona, WI

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