The homegrown Gables Bike Day continues to evolve and expand, thanks to a dedicated group of advocates, as well as a community whose enthusiasm for all things cycling is unwavering. This year’s Gables Bike Day on Sunday, Oct. 20, is organized by non-profit Bike Walk Coral Gables and presented by the Downtown Coral Gables and Miracle Mile BID.
This year, organizers looked at ways to increase engagement from college students and extend the event’s boundaries even farther. Both goals have been actualized via a collaboration with the University of Miami’s UBike program as well as two new bike routes that connect the UM campus and Downtown Miami to Miracle Mile (the heart of Gables Bike Day).
It is a truly inclusive event for the community, which while fun, also makes a serious statement about cycling and safety.
“Gables Bike Day helps call attention to cycling in the Gables and the benefits of having an area to do it in,” said Robert Ruano, chair of Bike Walk Coral Gables. “The reason we do the event is to keep the needs of cyclists in the forefront, with a goal to make our streets safe for the many residents and students that ride in the city.”
To that end, Gables-based companies that are exemplary in “bike friendliness,” are encouraged to participate in the inaugural Bike-Friendly Business Awards, where businesses that support and encourage cycling and bike culture will be recognized.
Civic leaders, transit activists and high profile individuals also form part of this year’s festivities. Former Mayor Don Slesnick will be leading one of the several guided-tours programmed for the day, and Coral Gables Mayor Jim Cason is expected to give opening remarks.
There are new and improved upon activities for people of all ages. Below, are highlighted the top 10 things to see and do at the third annual Gables Bike Day:
• Take a Guided Bike Tour (starting at noon) for a fee of $10 per person;
• Partake in an 11 a.m. kickoff and get free Tshirts at the stage at Miracle Mile and LeJeune;
• Check out the Antique Bike Show;
• Enjoy live music from local bands Nil Lara, Bob Bonnen and Oriente;
• Find some cool stuff at the Scavenger Hunt;
• Load up on fresh produce at the Farmer’s Market;
• Stroll through the Restaurant and Retail booths;
• Learn about bike safety for kids at the UM BikeSafe rodeo;
• Kids can live it up at the Bounce Houses and Arts and Crafts at TD Bank Kid Zone, and
• Get your green on at the 10 local environmental and wellness nonprofit booths.
For information on Gables Bike Day, visit www.facebook.com/BikeWalkCoralGables
