Miles of Smiles at the Bike Parade + Ice Cream Social
Bike Parade Draws a Crowd
On Thursday, August 3rd, a crowd of folks and their bikes from around town and across MDI gathered at The Neighborhood House for the 23rd Annual Bike Parade & Ice Cream Social. What started out more than two decades ago as a fun excuse to gather and enjoy some ice cream has turned into an iconic summer event enjoyed by “kids” of all ages. The festivities began at 5:30 with numerous bins of decorations— everything from streamers to sparkles and stickers— strewn about the lawn. Children, parents, and even grandparents got to work adorning their bikes, trikes, scooters and wagons with all sorts fun decorations in preparation for the parade.
Shortly after six o’clock, they were off! The sea of colorful bikes made their way down Tracy Road before arriving at the head of Main Street. Thanks to our helpful community partners at the Mt. Desert Fire and Police Departments, the parade route was kept safe for all of the participants. As the large flow of parade participants made their way down Main Street they were able to take in the “oohs” and “aahs” of the crowd along the sidewalk.
Every single parade participant made it to the finish line (some with a little help from mom or dad) where a well deserved treat was awaiting them. The amazing crew of volunteer ice cream “scoopers” were ready and waiting to dish out hot fudge sundaes to the assembled crowd. These were not any ordinary sundaes, however. Not only did they feature homemade hot fudge, but that chocolaty delight was going on top of some of the best vanilla ice cream around, generously contributed by Jordan Pond Ice Cream & Fudge and the Acadia Corporation.
There were plenty of sundaes to go around, and that was a good thing because the crowd was immense! When the dust settled, little remained besides a handful of sparkly decorations blowing around the lawn, and plenty of chocolate fudge-stained smiles, of course. Special thank to all who attended, and especially the Mt. Desert Fire, Police, and Public Works Departments for their assistance, as well as the Acadia Corporation for the delicious ice cream. It’s safe to say the 24th incarnation of this event will return next summer, and we can’t wait!
