Children parade through Lake Elmo on bikes, foot, roller skates and even on trailers pulled by tractors and antique vehicles. Photos: Connect Lake Elmo
For nearly four decades, an annual parade in Lake Elmo has been devoted to the city’s youngest residents. The town’s 4th of July Kids Parade draws more than 1,300 people annually as Lake Elmo Avenue is opened to community celebration.
This year’s parade is an important one, as Lake Elmo celebrates its 100th anniversary. “It’s a very special event to our community,” says Tara Cadenhead, Connect Lake Elmo board member and parade co-organizer. “It symbolizes that small-town feel of Lake Elmo and our emphasis on family and community.”
At an earlier start time of 10 a.m., children of all ages will take off on foot, bikes, rollerblades and scooters. Some will appear on lawnmowers, tractors or trailers pulled by antique trucks. “Kids are the focus,” Cadenhead says. “People are just so happy. Adults dress up, and the joy is indescribable.”
After the parade, enjoy family-friendly activities around town sponsored by area businesses and organizations, including an ice cream social with the Lake Elmo Rotary, a dunk tank, face painting, fire trucks and minnow races. “We really want the whole community to stick around and engage and just have fun with the festivities,” Cadenhead says.
The event is organized by Connect Lake Elmo, a nonprofit with a mission to connect residents, businesses and nonprofit partners, and the City of Lake Elmo.
The Lake Elmo 4th of July Kids Parade; connectlakeelmo@gmail.com; connectlakeelmo.org
Facebook: Connect Lake Elmo
