Sydney Rides will be bigger than ever, with more than forty family-friendly events celebrating bikes and urban adventure being held across the City of Sydney this spring.
Now in its eighth year, the 2019 program runs over three months, and will include guided bike rides, workshops, Ride to Work day, a photography exhibition and a mass ride across the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Lord Mayor Clover Moore said Sydney Rides is back, better than ever in 2019.
“With more activities, events and opportunities, there’s something for everyone and their bike,” the Lord Mayor said.
“Light the City will return for a one-night extravaganza in September, and Sydney Park will transform into a massive playground for all ages for the Big Adventure in November.”
“More than 20 000 people took part last year, and the expansion of our Sydney Rides program to three months will give families more opportunities to get outside, get active together and discover our city on two wheels.”
2019 Sydney Rides program highlights include:
Light the City – 21 September
Experience the beauty of Sydney’s spectacular harbour at twilight. A night of family fun at Mrs Macquaries Chair. Bring your bike, hire a ride or take the route on foot and experience spectacular lights, illuminated trees, gourmet food trucks and entertainment. Bring your dancing shoes for the ever-popular silent disco at sundown.
Free entry, bike hire available – 6pm–11pm, Mrs Macquaries Road, The Domain
Sydney Rides Photo Exhibition, Paddington Reservoir Gardens – 1–31 October
Discover Sydney’s secret subterranean park with a spectacular photographic exhibition in Paddington Reservoir Gardens. The display will highlight bike-based adventures and Sydney’s most spectacular rides.
Free – 8am–8pm daily, Paddington Reservoir Gardens, Oxford Street
Spring Cycle – 13 October
Cross the Harbour Bridge car-free on Sydney’s biggest bike ride, the Spring Cycle. From regular riders to fitness freaks, there’s a route for all abilities – from a ride through the Rocks and Pyrmont, up to a 105-kilometre challenge all the way to Sydney Olympic Park.
Bookings essential. More information at springcycle.com.au
The Big Adventure – Saturday 16 November
An enormous screen-free family fun day with mountain boarding, rock climbing, sports clinics, dancing and even bike yoga. Bring your picnic rug for a food truck feast and watch breathtaking BMX stunt riders and roving entertainers throughout Sydney Park.
Free – 9am–4pm, Sydney Park, St Peters
Criterium White Bay
Criterium White Bay brings fast and furious racing action right into the heart of Sydney Harbour. Riders and runners will race along the water’s edge, with spectacular views of the Sydney skyline as their backdrop. With a packed racing schedule that extends over two big nights under lights, this is a cycling, running and multi-sport festival like no other.
Bookings essential.
Tour De French Food
A themed ride to showcase the inner east and city centre bike network, meet local food businesses and connect with the community, all with a French theme.
Bookings essential.
Bicycle Scavenger Hunt
If you like bikes, scavenger hunts and crafty clues, join us on this roving two-wheeled adventure through the streets and laneways of the inner west.
Bookings essential.
Bike Speed Dating
Yes, you read this right, this is speed dating on bikes. Take the awkwardness out of regular speed dating and take in a few different Sydney venues at the same time.
Bookings essential.
For booking information visit sydneyridesfestival.net
Picture: Courtesy City of Sydney