Brooms Up for the 11th Annual Witches of South Walton Ride Oct. 31

A group of women called the Witches of South Walton will trade their broomsticks for bicycles on Halloween morning at 7am for the 11th Annual Witches of South Walton Ride …making magic for Children’s Volunteer Health Network (CVHN).  

The number of witches has grown to well over 100 local women who sport witchy costumes and decorated “broom cycles,” while casting their spell on spectators and cackling along Scenic 30A. Last year approximtely 165 witches participated in the ride and brunch, raising $3,000 for CVHN.

Carol Stafford, Witches of South Walton Founder, explains the history of the Witches of South Walton. “This foolishness started in 2004 when two of my friends and I rode our bikes along the bike path several times a week for exercise.  I jokingly suggested that we wear witch hats on Halloween day….Now we are celebrating the 11th anniversary of this treasured local tradition and for such a worthy cause.”

"Isn’'t it amazing what a small group of caring people can do?"” says Zach Billingsley, CVHN Executive Director. "The Witches of South Walton is a group of genuine, caring people who love to have fun!  The Witches came up with the concept and CVHN is blessed to have their continued support. The number of witches has grown each year, and although they may not realize this, each one of them is helping CVHN change lives. Every dollar raised helps more uninsured or underinsured children gain access to the health care they need and deserve. We are grateful for the support from the Witches of South Walton and look forward to this event every year!”"

Interested witches should register at the “Witches Brew” on Thursday, October 30 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at La Playa in Gulf Place. The entry fee is $15. Witches may also purchase $5 raffle tickets at this time and bring any items they would like to donate for the raffle taking place the following morning. 

Yolo Board + Bike at Gulf Place is offering free bike rentals for any witch needing a bike for our Halloween morning ride. Please call or email Ryan, store manager, to reserve your bike. (850)-267-0602.

Schedule of Events:

Thursday, Oct. 30 | 5-8pm | Witches Brew
Come out to La Playa in Gulf Place for witch drink specials, fun, and live music with Forrest Williams Band. Everyone's invited to attend this evening. Register at the Witches Brew and purchase raffle tickets.

Friday, Oct. 31 | 6:30am | Witches Ride
Meet at Gulf Place. Coffee sponsored by Sunrise Coffee Co. At 7am sharp, witches will fly west on their bikes!

Friday, Oct. 31 | 8:30am | Witches Brunch
After the ride, meet up at La Playa for breakfast and mimosas ($15 plates / cash bar). Raffle prizes and awards for best costume, best bike decor, and best cackle!

Help support CVHN, have your bike tuned up and decorated, put on your witch costume, and join the Witches of South Walton for a frightful time this Halloween on Scenic 30A. For more information visit www.witchesofsouthwalton.com and be sure to like the Witches of South Walton on Facebook www.facebook.com/WitchesOfSouthWalton.

Video compiled from 2011 photos by Sheila Goode.