Everyone loves a parade, and, on Wednesday, July 8, the High Point Parks and Recreation’s Special Populations staff will treat participants of that program to a drive-by parade – a new method of virus-safe celebration that’s become very popular during the 2020 pandemic.

On Wednesday, July 8, starting at 12:30 p.m., program staff will form a row of vehicles that will pass by the houses of participants in the city’s recent virtual programming for special populations.

Drive-by parades have become a popular way for kids across the country to celebrate birthdays, graduations and other events at a time when a regular Chucky Cheese party is simply out of the question. Well-wishers decorate cars and SUV’s to the max, often with messages written on them, and then drive by homes in line – honking, cheering and hanging out the windows to show their appreciation and encouragement.

The city’s Special Populations programs provide year-round recreational and leisure opportunities for children and adults with disabilities. Some of the best known programs in the city are Camp Ann, The Miracle League and the Special Olympics. Though, both locally and nationally, the coronavirus pandemic has brought about the cancelation of many in-person events and activities meant for special populations, cities like High Point have moved some of those programs online in an effort to continue providing the services in a safe way.

The parade, which will be led by a High Point Park Rangers vehicle, will leave from Oakview Recreation Center at 503 James Road in High Point at 12:30 p.m., with additional staff members in vans and other vehicles following.

If anyone is looking for more information on the Special Populations programs High Point offers – virtual or otherwise – they can call 336-883-3469 or point their web browser to https://www.highpointnc.gov/Facilities/Facility/Details/Special-Populations-100.