Any Hoover-based witches looking to join in on pre-All Hallow’s Eve festivities need look no farther than the Bluff Park Witches Ride on Oct. 20.
For the second year, Bluff Park mothers Laura Powell and Katie Dixon are coordinating a Witches Ride for their neighborhood as a means to give back.
“We had seen it done in other communities and thought it would be a fun and festive event for Bluff Park while we also raise money to support local charities,” said Dixon.
Powell and Dixon were thrilled with the turnout and participation for the first year’s ride, but this year they hope to see those numbers rise. Funds from this year’s race will benefit United Ability of Birmingham, located near Bluff Park, which Dixon noted has touched the lives of many people in the community with its disability services.
“Most recently, a sweet little boy in our community born with cerebral palsy, Shep Maddox, has shown great progress with his motor skills and balance due to the great therapy he receives at United Ability,” Dixon said. “They offer so many amazing services to people all around Birmingham, and we felt like this was a great way to give back and support their efforts.”
Not only has the ride served as a way to raise awareness for a local cause, it has been a way for women in the community to get to know each other. For the women riding, Dixon said, it’s a blast.
“Getting a group together to get dressed up in crazy costumes is something most of us haven’t done since college or high school,” she said. “The kids get a kick out of seeing their moms, teachers, friends, and even grandmothers dress up and ride bikes.”
The event will begin at 3:30 p.m. in Shades Cliff Park with food trucks, bounce houses, face painting and music. The witches will then “take flight” at 5 p.m., throwing candy to kids as they ride.
“There is always lots of laughter and fun in it for all ages,” Dixon said. “And the fact that it all benefits a great cause is the best part.”
For more information, visit the “2019 Bluff Park Witches Ride” Facebook page.
–Emily Williams