May the Fourth of July be with you — one with density control.
The Bainbridge Grand Old 4th traditionally has packed people together. This year, just coming off of 1½ years of COVID-19 pandemic restrictions June 29, it will be about spreading people out.
Ever since being forced to cancel the event for the first time in 52 years last summer, the chamber has been hard at work trying to see what kind of community celebration could be possible for 2021.
For example, it won’t start off with the run in Winslow. Instead, the run will feature flexible times and locations.
Instead of a parade on Winslow, it will be an island-wide parade of classic cars.
The Grand Old 4th Meal won’t just be at Waterfront Park. It will be an island-wide picnic.
The Bainbridge Island Chamber of Commerce made the changes in the interest of health and safety, but still wants to make it as “normal” as possible.
Fun Run
Choose your own time and route. Run, walk, hike, bike or jog in your neighborhood or favorite park. Not on Bainbridge for the holiday? No problem — participate from wherever you are.
5K or 1 mile — all ages. Entry fee $20 per participant. Includes a race bib and the opportunity to win prizes and earn a t-shirt if you raise $100 over your entry fee.
Kids Dash — ages 7 and younger. Entry fee $10 per kid and includes a race bib and the opportunity to win prizes and earn a t-shirt if you raise $100 over your entry fee. Create your own obstacle course or go on a treasure hunt.
The Dog Jog — Bring Fido. Entry fee $10 per dog and includes a commemorative bandana for your pet. Win a prize for your dog.
Every dollar earned through the Fun Run works to keep Bainbridge Youth Services free and accessible to all youth.
For details go to www. askbys.org/2021-fun-run/
Parade
The Bainbridge Island Classic Car Cruise Parade combines the love of classic automobiles with a desire to help local kids. Open to the public, enjoy cool cars and special interest vehicles or bring one of your own (no fee or advance reservation required).
Kicking off at the Bainbridge First Baptist Church (corner of Madison & Highway 305), the cruise will visit all four corners of the island over the course of an approximately 90-minute parade route, bringing this year’s procession to you, wherever you live on Bainbridge.
Donations welcome — funds will be donated to Helpline House’s Project Backpack. For details go to www.bainbridgeisland carshow.com/
Picnic in the parks
Grab a basket and blanket, and head on over to any of the island’s parks for a celebration safely in a socially distanced outdoor environment.
Not comfortable with being in a park? Just throw that blanket out in your back yard or even in your living room — depending on your comfort level.
Want to support Bainbridge businesses and shop small, shop local? The chamber, in partnership with local retail and food/drink members, will be offering pre-packed picnic baskets and Bainbridge Strong Blankets for sale throughout June, ready for pickup on July 3rd.
For details, go to grandold4th.com.
