Oaklawn Pet, Bike, and Wagon Parade

Celebrate Independence Day with Oaklawn’s 2026 Pet, Bike & Wagon Parade.

Join us on Saturday, July 4, 2026, at the Marshall Fountain Circle for a morning full of patriotic fun, creativity, and community spirit.

Children ages 1 through 12 are invited to decorate their pets, bikes, and wagons in red, white, and blue and show off their creativity in this beloved Fourth of July tradition. Participants are encouraged to create their own costumes and decorations.

Event Schedule

• Check In and Late Registration: 9:00 to 9:30 AM
• Parade Line Up: 9:45 AM
• Parade Begins: 10:00 AM

Participation is free, but registration is required. Register by Thursday, July 2 to reserve your spot.

Late registration will also be available the morning of the parade.

Awards will be presented for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place in each category:

• Pets
• Bikes
• Wagons

Parade Day Instructions

• Pick up participant numbers at the registration table in front of the Crary Condos by 9:30 AM
• Report to the staging area by 9:45 AM
• Designated staging areas for Pets, Bikes, and Wagons will be clearly marked

Rules and Regulations

• All bike participants must wear a helmet
• If needed, helmets will be available for free (limited supply)
• All animals must be properly caged or leashed and kept under control at all times
• No skateboards, rollerblades, or motorized vehicles are permitted
• Parent or guardian authorization is required for participation

Judging Criteria May Include

• Did the child create the costumes or decorations?
• Did the entry incorporate the “An American” theme?
• How creative are the costumes and decorations?
• Is the character or figure being represented easily recognizable?

Legal Information

By entering this event, parent(s) understands and agrees that the sponsors of the Pet, Bike & Wagon Parade, and those persons associated with it: (1) reserve the right to deny any person participation in the event at any time; and (2) are not responsible for injury that may occur in relation to the event, that the parent(s) assume(s) responsibility for any such injury and shall have the sponsors and their associates harmless from any damages and expenses that may result from such injury. Oaklawn Hospital reserves the right to publish and/or distribute photographs of participants and activities during events it sponsors.

Questions? Contact Oaklawn’s Marketing Office at (269) 789-3942.

We look forward to celebrating the Fourth of July with you and seeing all of the creative patriotic entries.

Register Here