Cyclists take over the commute for Bike to Work Day May 20 | Events

Whether you like them or not, bicycle commuters are out there, and May 20 is their annual coming out party.

Bike to Work Day 2011, held by Cascade Bicycle Club and sponsored by the City of Seattle, features dozens of commuter stations, a bicycle ride with the mayor, a rally at City Hall, a party in Ballard and more.

“Bike to Work Day shows what are streets could look like every day if we continue encouraging and investing in bicycling as transportation,” according to Cascade Bicycle Club’s website.

The club hopes to use the annual event to generate political momentum for more bike trails, bike lanes, signage and more.

From 6 p.m. to 9 a.m., commuter stations stocked with free water bottles, prizes, bike mechanics, snacks and more will be dispersed throughout the city to aid riders. Click here for a map of the stations.

At 7:15 a.m., Mayor Mike McGinn and other elected officials will leave the Fremont Bridge commuter station and ride to City Hall. The public is welcome to join in on the ride.

McGinn’s ride culminates with a rally at City Hall, located at 600 Fourth Ave., from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. The rally will be used to thank bike-friendly leaders with speeches from McGinn and others. There will be more freebies on hand for cyclists.

Bike to Work Day comes to a close with the annual Ballard Block Party from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. in Bergen Place Park, located at the intersection of 22nd Avenue Northwest and Northwest Market Street. There will be a drawing for a free bike and other prizes, free bike tune-ups, pizza and more. An after party at the BalMar will feature DJs and beer specials from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

A little more on Bike to Work Day from Cascade Bicycle Club:

F5 Bike to Work Day is a blast. Thousands of cyclists pack the streets. Smiles, waves and the friendly ring of bike bells fill the air. No matter what or where your commute, you won’t be riding alone on Bike to Work Day.

F5 Bike to Work Day is a great day to ride for the first time, because no matter where you’re riding from, we’ll be out there with you. Commuter stations and experienced riders along major routes will ensure that encouragement, support, and fun are never in short supply.