Get Ready to Ride!
When I first moved to Portland I was charmed to the core by the creative and hyperactive bike scene. It is really unlike any city I’ve been to in this respect. Year round there are all kinds of bike events (the Midnight Mystery Ride, the Thursday Night Ride, Filmed by Bike Film Fest, Sunday night Zoobomb) but the month June is where it all blows up with Pedalpalooza. It’s time to tune up that cruiser and string some lights on your basket – the kickoff ride is June 9th!
Pedalpalooza is over three weeks of bike events and themed rides organized by community groups and individuals, and nearly all these events are free. If you are new to town, it is a great way to meet new people and check out the magical local bike scene. Check out the calendar, there is seriously something for everyone.
Jonathan Maus/BikePortland
Bike rides run the gamut, from Fixies on Mt. Tabor to the High Heels ride, from Tom Waits to Lemmy, from the Full Moon to Solstice Ride. This year the Bowie vs. Prince ride is going to be EPIC, considering we lost them both this year. Last year the Champagne Ride was quite fabulous and merged nicely with the Dropout Prom ride, which ended in a midnight dance party along the Springwater Corridor trail.
The Rocky Butte Sunset Potluck Picnic Dance Party is also a lovely start of summer ride. Of course, the World Naked Bike Ride also happens June 25th, 8pm, for those of you looking to expose yourself to more of what Portland has to offer.
There’s nothing better than a party on two wheels. So get your gear, pack up a picnic, and get out and play — summer is coming!
