Safe Kids North Central Florida invites families to “Healthy Heroes Day for Kids” on April 18
Press release from Safe Kids North Central Florida
GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Safe Kids North Central Florida invites families to a fun, free, and educational community event, Healthy Heroes Day for Kids, happening Saturday, April 18, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at UF Health Professional Park (3300 SW Williston Road).
Formerly known as the UF Health Bike Rodeo, Healthy Heroes Day for Kids encourages children and families to learn healthy habits while having fun. The event is free to attend and is designed to promote bike and pedestrian safety and overall healthy behavior in a safe, hands-on environment.
Kids are encouraged to bring their bikes and enjoy a variety of interactive activities, including:
- Bike raffles
- Games and prizes
- Free bike helmets (while supplies last)
- Free car seat safety checks (Must book appointment at tinyurl.com/skcnfl)
- Face painting
- “Touch a Truck” activities that allow children to safely explore large vehicles while learning about various safety topics
Safe Kids NCFL member organizations will be on site throughout the event, providing free car seat checks, distributing bicycle helmets, participating in Touch-A-Truck activities, and engaging families with hands-on safety education.
“Healthy Heroes Day brings safety education to life in a way that’s approachable and memorable for families,” said Safe Kids North Central Florida Coordinator Jordyn Zyngier. “By connecting children with hands-on activities and local safety partners, we’re helping caregivers build confidence and giving families tools they can carry with them long after the event ends. Events like this are a powerful reminder that injury prevention starts with education and is most effective when agencies work together. Safe Kids NCFL is proud to support this event and is excited to offer car seat checks to caregivers.”
Grant funding provided by the Children’s Trust of Alachua County will allow car seats to be distributed to eligible caregivers who preregister. Caregivers in need of car seat assistance are encouraged to email safekidsncfl@gmail.com for more information.
Event Details:
- What: Healthy Heroes Day for Kids
- When: Saturday, April 18th 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. / Car Seat Check until 1:30 p.m.
- Where: UF Health Professional Park, 3300 SW Williston Road (located on RTS Bus Route 35)
Families are invited to enjoy a day of fun while connecting with local firefighters, law enforcement officers, nurses, and public health professionals.
For more information, visit UFHealth.org/HealthyHeroesDay.