Have you ever wondered why World Bicycle Day is so important? Maybe you have a bike stored at the bottom of the closet, or perhaps you use one daily to travel through the city. Whatever the case may be, this celebration goes further than a simple ride: it is about recognizing the role that bicycle plays in our health, the environment, and the way we live our cities.
A date with more than history
The World Bicycle Day is officially celebrated on June 3rd, thanks to a UNO declaration in 2018.
Why? Because this simple but powerful mode of transport has a direct impact on our environment: it doesn’t pollute, it doesn’t need fuel, and promotes an active lifestyle. Meaning, it improves the planet, and physical and mental well-being.
Why should you care the Bicycle Day?
It doesn’t matter your age! You are always in the correct phase to start making decisions that redefine your lifestyle in the long term. Here are some reasons why this celebration is also for you, regardless of the moment in your life:
- Take care of your health: riding by bike regularly is an easy way to exercise without feeling like an obligation. Improve your heart, strengthen your muscles, and reduce stress.
- Save money: Do you spend on transport and fuel? A bicycle is an investment that pays for itself. You don’t need fuel, repairs are minimal, and you can forget parking lots.
- Be part of the change: by cycling instead of using the car, you are reducing your carbon footprint and helping the air in your city to be cleaner.
- Move faster: In many urban zones, cycling is faster than driving, thanks to bikeways and facilities to avoid traffic.
More than a ride, a celebration with meaning
Bicycle Day is not about pedaling once per year. It is about reflecting on how something so simple can transform whole cities. For that, many times are organized massive rides, talks, exhibitions, and workshops are organized that not only celebrate the bicycle, but also want more people to join this movement.
If you live in a city like CDMX or Guadalajara, there are public bicycle systems such as EcoBici or MiBici, perfect to start if you don’t have a proper bike. You can also be part of the Sunday or night rides organized by local groups, or sometimes, the own government with events such as Sunday or night rides on special dates.
How to be part of and celebrate
The Bicycle Day is an opportunity to test and experiment, and why not, adopt a new habit. Just make sure to perform it safely: wear a safety helmet, light, and respect traffic rules. Avoid sidewalks, opposite directions, and always take your basic tools with you.
Even if you just use a bike occasionally, every pedal counts. Whether it’s going to work, visiting your friends, or simply disconnecting a while from work stress, house, or school, every journey is a step to a more human city and a more aware lifestyle.
Dare to rediscover your city through handlebars. Because sometimes, the simplest can be the most powerful.
Happy Bicycle Day!
