Summerlanders will celebrate the joy of cycling during Bike to Everywhere Week later this month.
The week, which runs from May 30 to June 5, promotes bicycle transportation to work, school, other appointments, for fun and for fitness.
In previous years, the event was known as Bike to Work Week. The focus has expanded to include the many reasons people ride bikes.
“People ride bikes for many different reasons; to get places, to get exercise, and to have fun,” said Coun. Erin Trainer, one of the Bike to Everywhere Week organizers. “If you’re new to cycling, try leaving your car at home for a week. It might just become a habit.”
Nada Hildebrand, another Bike to Everywhere Week organizer, said cycling is also a way to connect with the natural environment.
“Birds singing, people talking and plants blossoming all become more noticeable on my bike,” she said. “Instead of taking that five-minute car ride to work, school, or the grocery store, choose to ride your bicycle and prepare to sharpen your senses. You’ll be surprised at how quickly time passes and how good you’ll feel.”
During the week, celebration stations will be set up each weekday morning from 7 to 9 a.m. at the Summerland Library parking lot on Main Street.
On Wednesday, June 1, cyclists are encouraged to join Mayor Peter Waterman and council on the Community Celebration Ride around Giant’s Head Mountain.
The group ride is free and begins at 7:15 a.m. at the celebration station at the library parking lot.
Cyclists will finish at the station for refreshments and snacks, sponsored by the municipality. Participants are required to sign a liability waiver before the ride.
Participating cyclists should register at www.biketowork.ca/summerland to be eligible for great provincial and local prizes including a cycling adventure for two in Vietnam from Exodus Travel Company, entry to the Okanagan Trestles Tour, SummerGate Wine, a coffee gift basket from Summerland Credit Union, a one month Health Club pass from the Summerland Recreation Department, a Bicycle Tune-up from Freedom Bike Shop, and more great prizes.
Last year, more than 44 regions and communities participated, with more than 34,000 people biking to work or school in British Columbia.