City spreads the message of safety at 7th Annual Destin Bike Parade

The 7th Annual Destin Bike Parade, held July 1 at Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village, and saw more than 140 residents come out with decorated bikes in tow. The traditional parade is part of Independence Day week celebrations for the city and encourages participants to deck out their bikes, strollers and even skateboards in patriotic themes for a light-hearted contest.

“Participants are judged on overall appearance and patriotic theme,” said Parks and Recreation Director Lance Johnson. “The winners got certificates for first second and third place.”

Johnson added that this year the event offered a free helmet to each child that came to the parade, complete with a safety fitting.

“We got a grant through the state and we had people certified to help fit the helmets,” he said.

With the new grant, the city was able to purchase 100 bicycle helmets, 50 of which were given out at the bike parade. After the bike parade, families enjoyed face painting, field games, bouncy houses and live musical entertainment.