Record Turnout at Collingswood Fourth of July Bike Parade

It seemed almost as if a red, white and blue tidal wave had flooded .

Swarms of bikes, scooters, wagons, even motorized miniature jeeps decorated in crepe paper and tinsel, rolled out for the Fourth of July Bike Parade. 

“I love it; the kids are just so cute,” said Michelle Miller, vice president of the Collingswood Junior Women’s Club, which sponsored the event.   

After a turnout of 125 last year, Miller had only expected about 100 kids; however, that number was quickly surpassed. By 9:45 a.m., the registry stood at 147 children and counting.     

"A lot of blood, sweat and tears went into this,” joked Stephanie Coyle of Collingswood about her sons’ motorized jeep.

Coyle said it took her about two hours to cover the toy vehicle with tinsel and crepe paper, some of which needed to be redone after a bit of rain Tuesday night. Her youngest son, Brody Marks, brought home third place in the 2-and-younger category.

“He was all excited to decorate last night,” said Chrissy Miller of Cherry Hill. Her son, Alex, rode a beaded tricycle topped with a large bow.

During the parade, the children made a single lap around the gazebo path in the park. Two police officers headed the brigade to ensure a safe trip.    

The three best-decorated bikes in each of four age groups won a Collingswood Cash prize, but no one went home empty-handed. Every participating child took home a goodie bag and free Mr. Softee ice cream cone, courtesy of Dr. Ernest J. Gentchos. 

After the ride was over, the kids flocked to the Mr. Softee truck in bunches. There, volunteers from the Collingswood American Legion also handed out flags to kids waiting for some cool relief. 

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