Sunday, April 22nd is Earth Day, when environment-friendly events are held worldwide to demonstrate support for the protection of our planet. In Budapest, roads will be cleared of cars to welcome cyclists of all ages for the annual I Bike Budapest procession. The rolling route passes by some of the city’s most spectacular sights and draws attention to the continuing need for creating better bike paths around town. Congregating from 2pm at Tabán in Buda, cyclists set off together at 3pm. I Bike Budapest ends at Városliget, for a picnic and welcome rest. Dust off your bike and see you there!
As Critical Mass, Budapest’s group cycling event was first organised in 2004. By 2013, more than 100,000 bikers had turned up. This yearly gathering is now called I Bike Budapest, and its aim is the same: to invite everyone – even those fairweather cyclists – to hit the streets on two wheels, and draw attention to the continuing need for creating better bike routes around the city. More and more people are dusting off their bikes every day to choose this eco-friendly form of transportation, so Budapest needs to meet the needs of its cycling residents.
This event is family-friendly and free. Anyone is welcome to join or leave the ride at any point, or to take shortcuts, though the route is accessible to bikers of all skill levels. From Tabán on the Buda side, cyclists set off together at 3pm. After slowly cycling around town, passing by landmarks such asMargaret Island, the Tunnel, the Chain Bridge and Andrássy út, the procession stops at City Park. At 6pm, when everyone should have already crossed the finish line, participants can lift their bikes above their head to celebrate amid the greenery. Afterwards, many stay late to enjoy the outdoor fun.
See the Facebook event for more details.
