Children on bicycles (and adults, too), a bagpiper and long time neighbors make this 4th of July parade an annual tradition
Nothing brings a group of people together like food (and a parade).
Combine the two and bring a small-town vibe to the Top of Fondren next Saturday for a July 4th celebration.
The event, spearheaded by the Broadmeadow Neighborhood Association, is a potluck and parade, an ongoing effort to gather neighbors inside their bounds and from beyond to enjoy each other’s company.
Many neighbors within Broadmeadow take on varying roles but the kids play a big part.
“(Neighbor) Kathryn Rodenmeyer started the parade,” recalls Maureen Smith, a BNA board member and one of the organizers of this year’s event. “She had this idea that the kids in the neighborhood could have an event for themselves. The kids run the parade — they decorate their bikes & scooters and they are the parade!”
Indeed decorated two-wheelers are a big part of the day (for kids and adults – The Jackson Bike Advocates participate). But then there’s a bag piper and, sometimes, a miniature horse named Willow, too.
A couple of years ago, BNA added the potluck lunch to extend the event, especially to families who may not have kids in the parade or whose kids have outgrown it. “This gives us a chance to really visit and catch up with one another,” Smith says. “The potluck is an amazing reflection of the bounty of summer in Mississippi and the creativity of our neighbors. People bring a little of everything- hot and cold salads, fresh fruits and veggies, sweets and casseroles. We just ask that you bring enough to feed your crew so we can all share.”
Another player in Broadmeadow’s success? Broadmeadow United Methodist Church, the host site for the parade and potluck. “The church is always so generous and welcoming — we can’t say enough about how much that church community does to support our community,” Smith added.
The Broadmeadow Neighborhood Association Parade and Potluck is Saturday, July 4. Participants will gather around 10:45am for an 11am parade with the potluck to follow. Learn more about BNA at topoffondren.com.
