VICKSBURG, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — The Village of Vicksburg will be hosting the inaugural Fall Bike Celebration this weekend beginning Friday.
The event is organized by Bike Friendly Kalamazoo, which works to make the community more bike-friendly.
“We’ve enjoyed tremendous support from the wonderful Village of Vicksburg and many volunteers who have worked hard on this event since last November,” Paul Selden, Chair of Bike Friendly Kalamazoo said in a press release. “Their creative energy has made the Celebration a real labor of love. We feel the Fall Bike Celebration Weekend has what it takes to make it a great annual event.”
On Friday, riders can participate in activities including disc golf, self-guided views of the huge Mill renovation project, and live music at the Farmers Market.
A big bike ride will follow on Saturday. Destinations include Scotts Mill Park and Climax to as far away as Shipshewana, with shorter routes available.
On Sunday, the winners of the first-ever Public Bike Art Prize will be announced at the Prairie Ronde Art Gallery, with $1,750+ in cash prizes being awarded.
Kalamazoo Bicycle Club organizer Pam Sotherland is offering bike safety tips ahead of the big weekend.
“The key to bicycle riding at this time of the year is to be sure that you are very well seen,” Sotherland said. “Wear lights, put a headlight on your bike and a rear light, that makes you more visible to motorists. Also motorists, it’s important to put your headlights on because that makes it easier for bicyclists to see you.”
Riders and drivers alike are advised to be watchful of each other.
“Bicyclists, we encourage you to ride on the right side of the road, but to not hug the curb,” Sotherland said. “When riding, always be predictable and consistent in how you’re riding. That makes it easier for motorists to know what you’re going to do.”
More information, including a list of events, is available online at www.fallbikecelebration.org.
