Racing, art bikes, family fun and more on tap for ‘Cirque’

Oompa-Loompas at the Cirque last year.
(Photo © J. Maus)

This Saturday, one of my favorite annual events is coming (once again) to Mississippi Avenue — the Cirque du Cycling!

The Cirque — which was conceived and is sponsored by Laughing Planet Cafe — is a one-day testament to everything bike that Portland has to offer and this year organizers have made it even better. The main highlights are back from previous years: A criterium featuring big-time local racers, a family bike ride through the neighborhood, and an art/freak-bike parade.

Up-close race action.

Ayleen Crotty with Good Sport Promotion got in touch yesterday with an update. Crotty says this year the parade will be even more amazing (and I’ll be on a panel of judges to award prizes to the top entrants), there will be a new “Family Fun Zone”, and two beer gardens (which hopefully won’t be near the family zone). The Cirque will also have live music, an art installation and a vendor exhibition.

Lompoc, a nearby brewery has even brewed a special lager dubbed “Helles on Wheels” which will be released at the Cirque. Proceeds from the new Lompoc lager and from the event in general will support Albina Youth Opportunity School.

Also this year, I’m happy to report that our radio station partner, 94.7FM, will also be there giving away all sorts of goodies.

Check out my report and photos from last year (including the unexpected nakedness), and make sure to come on out to Mississippi Avenue for a perfect way to welcome the summer bike season. More info and details at CyclingCircus.com.