This past week, Chicago’s lakefront welcomed bikers from all over the country to the annual “Bike the Drive” event, giving cyclists of all skill-levels and ages the chance to hit the road on a 30-mile loop normally designated for cars only.

The event shut down DuSable Lake Shore Drive to cars from 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., allowing cyclists to bike down Chicago’s beautiful lakefront. Bike the Drive began in 2002 and has occurred annually on Labor Day weekend since (besides 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic). While the total turnout for this year’s event has not been reported, in past years more than 20,000 cyclists took part in the event.

Bike the Drive is presented by the Active Transportation Alliance, an organization that promotes healthy, sustainable and equitable transportation for walkers and bikers across Chicago. This includes advocating for protected bike lanes, improved sidewalks and a reduced carbon footprint.

After the event, riders could attend a festival at the north end of Grant Park in Butler Field, where participants received medals and t-shirts for their participation. Live music, a pancake breakfast and activities for kids were also available for those who attended the festival.

Make sure to mark this on your calendar for next year if you’re looking to bike the drive, or for other bike-friendly events in Chicago visit here: Events | Active Transportation Alliance