Hundreds of cyclists are gearing up for Winter Go By Bike Week, which runs Feb. 5 to 11, and can look forward to the Winter Celebration Station returning for the first time in years.
“Riders are always asking for a Winter Celebration Station and this year we are doing it,” said Marliana Buch, event manager of Capital Bike which runs Bike Week. “More and more riders are opting to commute in winter, so we are thrilled to be hosting.”
The six-day event, which has more than 680 riders registered, encourages and promotes cycling in the Capital Region.
On Thursday, Feb. 8 from 7 to 9 a.m., a celebration station is set for in front of Victoria City Hall and open to all gas-free vehicles, including bikes, scooters and skateboards.
Participants can enjoy complimentary coffee and treats from Tim Hortons, organic bars from Hornby Organics, a special prize draw, and helpful information and freebies from the City of Victoria. Oak Bay Bikes will provide expert bike tune-ups on-site.
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Capital Bike also promises a “special event announcement” by Victoria city councillors at 8:30 a.m..
This year’s Winter Go By Bike Week runs in tandem with the Bike Valet’s first year of offering winter hours since its pilot program launched in 2022. The service, which stored 11,000 bikes in five months, was scheduled to end on Dec. 23, 2023 but was extended until April.
On Feb. 8, the Bike Valet, which offers free, seven days a week service off the popular Pandora Avenue cycling route, opens at 7 a.m. – a half hour earlier than the regular winter hours.
Anyone who cycles between Feb. 5 and 11 can log their rides at GoByBikeBC.ca to be entered to win more than $11,000 in prizes.
Learn more about the event at capitalbike.ca.
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