(Photo © J. Maus/BikePortland)
It’s a well known fact that Portlanders love themed bike rides. Even in the depths of winter and with the holiday hustle and bustle in full swing, the bike lovers among us still find time to organize rides. And why not? Being on a bike is a great way to explore holiday events, discover the lights and decorations up all around town, and there’s nothing like a bike ride to make new friends and keep the old.
This weekend there are several holiday-themed rides that are sure to increase the merry in your holidays.
Saturday, December 15th
Kidical Mass Bike Carol Ride
If you’ve got little ones in tow and are looking for a family friendly outing on Saturday, look no further than this holiday-themed Kidical Mass ride. Meet at gazebo in Peninsula Park (corner of N Ainsworth and Albina) at noon and then head toward the festive shops on N Mississippi Ave for caroling and fun. A special bonus treat is a post-ride get together at the organizer’s home where there will be cookie decorating and holiday ornament making for all! (More info here)
Portland Holiday Caroling Bike Ride
Organizer Jessie Wise says her ride will, “bring some holiday cheer to our wonderful city as we ride though the streets and waterfront singing, whistling, and humming our favorite holiday songs!” Show up and grab some mini candy canes to pass out to good little girls and boys you meet along the way. The ride meets at the lower station of the Aerial Tram (3303 SW Bond) at 4:30. From there, riders will head toward Pioneer Square with hopes of joining the SantaCon Pub Craw to sing “Here Comes Santa Claus.” (Facebook event page)
Ride to Peacock Lane
The Holiday Caroling Ride will meet up with this Ride to Peacock Lane at about 6:30 at Pedal Bike Tours (133 SW 2nd Ave). The nice folks at Pedal Bike Tours will host a free, guided ride from their downtown shop to the big (and carfree!) holiday lights extravaganza at Peacock Lane. Show up between 6 and 7:00 for free hot cocoa, cider, and coffee before setting off for southeast Portland. (More details here)
Jingle Bell Ride to Peacock Lane
Clever Cycles is hosting their third annual ride out to the carfree opening night of Peacock Lane. Their ride leaves the Clever Cycles shop on SE Hawthorne (at 9th) at 5:00 pm. Make sure your bike has a bell so you can take part in Jingle Bells! Show up early for complimentary refreshments (and to shop their awesome store!).
Sunday, December 14th
Pretty Lights Ride
Join staff and volunteers from Bike Farm on a tour of Christmas lights throughout north and northeast Portland. The ride leaves at 4:00 pm from 305 NE Wygant and you’re welcome to arrive early if you need to work on your bike. This ride will also end at the Peacock Lane event. (More info here)