This participant in the Friends of the Rail Trail Kid’s Bike Ride went all out with her patriotic décor last year.
SOUTHWICK – Independence Day is being celebrated a bit early in Southwick as the Friends of the Rail Trail host the fourth Annual July Fourth Kids Bike Ride.
The event is June 28 with registration at 9 a.m., followed by the ride at 9:30 a.m. starting at the Miller Road parking area of the Southwick Rail Trail.
Christy Bannish of the Friends of the Rail Trail said the ride is short and geared toward younger children, but children of all ages are welcome.
“We will have the older kids start first, followed by the little ones on bikes,” she said.
The Southwick Friends of the Rail Trails annual Kids Bike Ride is set for June 28 at 9 a.m. Participants are encouraged to decorate their bikes in red, white and blue.
For toddlers and babies, families are welcome to bring them in wagons and strollers.
“Non-motorized scooters are also welcome,” said Bannish.
Riders and their families are encouraged to wear their best patriotic attire and deck their bikes, wagons, and more in red, white and blue.
“We will give prizes for the most patriotic and most creative,” Bannish said.
“Celebrity” judges this year include Selectman Joseph Deedy and Parks and Recreation Commissioner Daniel Call with assistance form the Southwick Police Association.
“It’s a lot of fun,” said Bannish. “We have activities for kids like face painting, and Moolicious will be here with their ice-cream truck giving our ice-cream.”
Bannish said it’s a fun way to kick off the summer, and a great introduction to the Southwick Rail Trail for young riders and their families.
“It’s also a way for people to get to know the Friends of the Rail Trail,” Bannish said. “We are always looking for volunteers, and we are a very low-key group that has fun.”
The rain date is June 29. Helmets and parental supervision required.
