It’s that time of year again as thousands of bike riders of all-ages and skill levels will be invited to take to the streets of Philadelphia on Saturday, October 17, 2026, for the 5th annual Philly Bike Ride. In an event that will start at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday, organizers said more than 7,000 riders are expected to hit the car-free 20-mile course — or a shorter 7.6 mile family-friendly route — that will weave its way from Center City Philadelphia, to the edge of the Delaware River and back to the Schuylkill River and into Manayunk. Organizers said that, through the route, riders will be able to take in iconic landmarks including Independence Hall, City Hall, LOVE Park, Chinatown, Penn’s Landing and Boathouse Row without vehicle traffic. And, organizers noted, the event is considered “cruise at your own pace,” to allow riders of all-ages and skill levels a chance to take in the ride. “Whether you’re a first-time rider, weekend cruiser or seasoned cyclist, the event provides a safe and welcoming experience for everyone,” organizers said in a statement on the event. Participants can choose between the full 20-mile course or a shorter 7.6 mile family-friendly route, both ending near the iconic Philadelphia Museum of Art and Rocky Steps where the Visit Pennsylvania Finish Festival will await. Philadelphia Oct 1, 2025 Enjoy a 20-mile car-free experience with Philly Bike Ride this weekend Philadelphia Oct 4, 2023 Philly Bike Ride to shut down 20 miles of Philadelphia streets to cars Philly live Oct 5, 2022 No Cars Allowed: Inaugural Philly Bike Ride Coming Next Week “Five years ago, we set out to create an event that celebrated this great community, encouraged people to get active and made cycling accessible to everyone,” said Chris Browne, Managing Director of Philly Bike Ride in a statement on the upcoming event. “With support from our partners at Visit Pennsylvania and Independence Blue Cross, our ride has become one of the city’s signature fall traditions. Each year we continue to build on the experience with new partners, surprises and ways for riders to have fun while supporting access to bicycling education and healthier communities.” This year’s celebration will feature new food partners, live entertainment, and interactive experiences throughout the festival grounds, and organizers said, there will also be, what they called, “an enhanced Beverage Garden,” available at the post-ride celebration for participants. Independence Blue Cross will once again serve as an official event partner, organizers said. “Biking is a simple yet powerful way to support both physical and mental well-being, while helping people connect with the community and city around them,” said Dr. Domenick Bucci, vice president of Medical Management and Medical Policy at Independence Blue Cross in a statement. “For five years, Philly Bike Ride has provided an opportunity to bring people together while celebrating movement, wellness, and Philadelphia itself. All of us at IBX are proud to continue investing in programs that make biking fun and accessible.” On Wednesday, officials announced road closures and parking restictions for the weekend event. Organizers said that a portion of the event proceeds benefit the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia, in an effort to support programs that introduce young people to cycling and create healthier futures. Proceeds also support the Graduation on Wheels program that, organizers said, aims to create cycling education in Philadelphia public schools. Through this program, organizers said, last year, 170 students at Logan Elementary School were awarded bikes, helmets and locks for completing the first ever cycling education curriculum rolled into their Physical Education classes. Before the Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026, event, attendees are invited to join the Packet Pickup Party on Oct. 16, 2026. This party, along with the Finish Festival, is free and open to the public. Check out the complete weekend schedule of events here. To learn more and to register to participate in the 5th annual Philly Bike Ride, visit www.phillybikeride.com. ...read more read less