Recap from Pickleweed Park Bike Fest In The Park 2023
Bike Fest in the Park 2023 was a huge success! Volunteer mechanics from the Bike Mobile fixed over 50 bikes at Pickleweed Park in San Rafael.
Bike Fest in the Park 2023 was organized by MCBC and staff from Cory’s Ride and Safe Routes to Schools. Its aim is to empower the community and promote bicycle safety. Families were welcome to participate in a bicycle safety course for young bikers, and a family bike parade along the Bay Trail afterwards.
On Saturday, May 20th, the Bike Mobile’s volunteer mechanics brought new life to over 50 bikes at Pickleweed Park in San Rafael. An entirely free event, Bike Fest in the Park celebrates the Canal neighborhood community through this annual event.
One key objective of Bike Fest in the Park was to assist neighbours from the Canal in fixing their bikes and bringing them back to prime condition, so they are safe to ride. Volunteer mechanics replaced worn-out tires, brake pads, chains, and other parts. Nayed Garcia, student mechanic and two-time Bike Fest volunteer, expressed, “Reviving these bikes gives a sense of empowerment. Seeing them being ridden around the neighborhood throughout summer is immensely gratifying.”
Additionally, Safe Routes to Schools hosted a bicycle safety course attended by 30 eager young riders. The kids were primarily from Bahia Vista Elementary, aged between five and ten. The class provided crucial safety guidelines, promoted responsible riding practices, and trained the students in the appropriate use of safety gear. The aim was to equip these youngsters with necessary knowledge to safely maneuver their neighborhood, fostering a safer, healthier community.
No Bike Fest is complete without a parade, right? To conclude the event, MCBC and Safe Routes ran a fun-filled family bike parade along the picturesque Bay Trail, supervised by teen role models from the Cory’s Ride Program.
Bike Parade along the Bay Trail
Preparations for next year’s event are already underway, potentially featuring a helmet distribution effort. “The well-being of our young cyclists is of utmost importance, and we believe this initiative will enhance their safety and self-assurance as they venture around their neighborhood on bicycles” asserted Safe Routes to Schools Volunteer Coordinator, Cooper Miley.
Check out the photo album from Bike Fest in the Park 2023. We can’t wait to see everyone at next year’s event!
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