Children can ride in their own parade July 4

The Winter Garden Heritage Foundation is celebrating the 11th year of the “All-American Kids Parade and Breakfast” on Friday, July 4. Fewer than 100 children participated in the event’s first year, but last year more than 500 patriotic kids joined in.

Each year, free decorations are provided for the participants to decorate their bikes, wagons and scooters or themselves. Because of the large number of children anticipated this year, the heritage foundation is asking the community for help with donations.

Anyone with red, white, blue or bling for the children to use for decorations can call the WGHF or drop off decorations at the Winter Garden Masonic Lodge on Bay Street, Winter Garden History Center downtown or Grace’s Gifts on Main Street. To arrange a pick-up or for more information, call the Winter Garden History Center at 407-656-3244.

Breakfast begins at 8 a.m., and children eat free. The parade starts at 10 a.m., and participants should like up at 9:45 at the Winter Garden Masonic Lodge, 230 W. Bay St.

This has become a fun July 4th tradition for the citizens of Winter Garden and is a great way to begin celebrating Independence Day.

The morning also includes entertainment, activities and a chance to have children’s fingerprints identified. 

The event is sponsored by the Winter Garden Masonic Lodge, WGHF and the downtown merchants.