Red-White-and-Blue Festivities

by Noella Noelophile®

What’s more American than spending the Fourth of July at the beach?

Well, if you’re in Long Beach, the answer would be, “taking part in the Great American Kids’ Bike Parade”!

Thursday morning, July 4th, marks the 20th anniversary of this Long Beach Independence Day tradition.

Hosted by Long Beach “Chief Inspiration Officer” Justin Rudd and his nonprofit Community Action Team, the Great American Kids Bike Parade isn’t just for the little kids.  Kids our age are welcome to ride along, as well!

Festivities start at 10 am, at the Granada Avenue Boat Launch Ramp, with the singing of the National Anthem by Chad Bishop.

And then–off to the bike path!   (Three cheers for our men and women in blue, too–according to Community Action Team’s Facebook page, three Long Beach police officers will be leading the parade!)

The bike parade itself is a very pleasant two-mile ride along the beach.   Patriotic costumes are encouraged, and parade judges will be looking for decorated bikes with all kind of fun additions such as flags, stars,  crepe paper…you get the idea.

And while participation is free, please register, ahead of time, at this link.

When you arrive, you’re requested to put your bike in the parade lineup first, in the parking lot.  A volunteer will meet you in the lineup and give you a number.  In lieu of an entry fee, please bring nonperishable food to donate?  Canned tuna, pasta, peanut butter and breakfast cereal are requested, for donation to organizations serving the homeless in our community.

In addition, kids are invited to write and recite short patriotic speeches.   Young speakers are requested to email Justin@JustinRudd.com.

Then, after the bike parade concludes (the finish point is the Granada Avenue Boat Launch Ramp, as well), be sure you stay around.  At 10:30. the kids’ patriotic speech contest is happening, followed by the awards ceremony (with cash prizes) for the best speech, and the ten best parade entries.

Happy Fourth of July!  Have fun.

The 20th annual Great American Kids’ Bike Parade begins at 10 am (but plan to arrive by 9:30 for check-in) at the Granada Avenue Boat Launch Ramp, 1 South Granada Avenue at Ocean Boulevard.  Kids are required, by law, to wear helmets and be escorted by a parent or guardian during the parade. By law, motor driven cycles are not allowed on the beach bike path, and neither are dogs.   Admission is free; however, please bring nonperishable food supplies, as listed above, in lieu of an admission fee.  Here’s the link to register.