Bike To Work Day

Bike To Work Day History

Bike To Work Day promotes the numerous benefits of cycling, encouraging commuters to leave their cars at home and instead, use bicycles to travel to work. By switching to pedal power, participants help reduce traffic congestion, minimize air pollution, cut greenhouse gas emissions, and embrace a healthier lifestyle. In Canada, Bike To Work Day aims to strengthen the community of cyclists and supports the development of improved cycling infrastructure, with cities across the country hosting various events, workshops, and activities to celebrate and promote the observance.

The origins of Bike To Work Day can be traced back to the 1956 event in San Francisco called "Bike To Work Week," organized by the League of American Bicyclists. Since then, the day has evolved to become an international affair, with various cities worldwide taking part in the annual celebration. In Canada, Bike To Work Day not only serves as an opportunity to actively promote cycling for commuting but also plays a vital role in raising awareness about cycling safety and shaping Canadian policies and regulations that govern it.

The specific date of Bike To Work Day varies among Canadian cities; however, the general timeframe remains in the month of May. For instance, Toronto and Edmonton celebrate the event on the last Monday of May, while Vancouver holds the celebration throughout the entire month.

Bike To Work Day facts

• According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), a 10-mile round trip bike commute can save about 10 pounds of carbon dioxide emissions per day, compared to driving a car.
• Bike to Work Day was created by the League of American Bicyclists in 1956 to encourage people to bike to work as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to driving.
• Victoria, British Columbia, has the highest percentage of bike commuters in Canada, with over 6% of the population cycling to work. Other cities with high cycling rates include Kelowna, Montreal, Ottawa, and Vancouver.
• The town of Oakville, Ontario, was the first community to adopt Bike to Work Day as an annual event in 1999.

In the News and Trending in Canada for Bike To Work Day

Top things to do in Canada for Bike To Work Day

• Cycle to work! Cycling has both physical and mental benefits and it also helps reduce carbon emissions.
• Perform maintenance on your bike. You can do it yourself or take it to a bike shop for a tune-up.
• Watch a movie about biking to work in Canada. Here are our top picks:
  
  1. Momentum - Biking in the City (2017): This mini-documentary portrays the daily life of a bike commuter in Vancouver, British Columbia, showcasing the city's bike infrastructure and the experience of cycling to work.
  2. Life on a Bike (2012): A short documentary that highlights the story of a Toronto resident who decides to give up her car and start commuting by bike, showcasing the benefits and challenges of the lifestyle change.
  3. Riding North: Bicycle Issues in Canada (2010): This documentary explores the reasons behind the low numbers of bicycle commuters in Canadian cities and discusses the potential solutions to encourage more people to cycle to work.
• Check out a local bike shop today. Some bike shops in Canada organize guided bike tours on Bike To Work Day. This is a chance to see local cycling infrastructure, scenic routes, or historical sites.