Bike Week Pasadena, 2016 (File Photo – David Gatzen)
Pasadena is gearing up for a month‑long celebration on two wheels as Pasadena Bike Month returns May 2–31, 2026, bringing with it a full calendar of free rides, tours, classes, and family‑friendly fun designed to get the whole city pedaling.
By News Desk
Organized by the City of Pasadena Department of Transportation with Day One and the Pasadena Complete Streets Coalition, this year’s festivities spotlight bicycling as a joyful, healthy, and sustainable way to explore the community.
A Citywide Invitation to Ride
“Bike Month is a great opportunity for residents and visitors to see, hear, taste, and feel all that Pasadena has to offer while riding a bicycle,” says Transportation Director Joaquin T. Siques. He highlights the return of the popular E‑bike Expo, expanded bike‑education events, and new family‑oriented rides in partnership with the Pasadena Public Library and the Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Department.
Throughout May, riders of all ages can join guided tours, themed rides, educational sessions, and hands‑on activities. Some events require reservations due to limited space, and participants are encouraged to bring a well‑maintained bike and lights for evening rides. Helmets are required for anyone under 18.
Bike Month Highlights
- Bike Tour of New and Old Murals — Sat, May 2 Kick off the month with a guided art ride led by Corey Dunlap, exploring Pasadena’s vibrant murals from 9:30 am – 12:30 pm starting at the Pacific Asia Museum.
- National Ride a Bike Day — Sun, May 3 Celebrate all day long with a ride around town and enjoy special deals from local businesses.
- National Bike to School Day — Wed, May 6 Families are encouraged to roll to school together and join the nationwide celebration.
- Beginner’s Bagel Ride — Sat, May 9 A relaxed, beginner‑friendly ride from Caltech Lot 10, complete with bagels, 9 a.m.–12 p.m.
- Bike to Work Day — Thu, May 14 Stop by Pasadena City Hall between 7:00 – 9:30 am for snacks and camaraderie with fellow commuters.
- Tour de Allee — Sat, May 16 Discover Pasadena’s hidden alleys on a 13‑alley adventure ending with ice cream, 9:00 – 11:30 am.
- Greene & Greene Architecture Bike Tour — Sun, May 17 Explore Pasadena’s architectural gems on a guided ride from the Gamble House Bookstore.
- Virtual E‑Bike Brown Bag — Tue, May 19 Learn about e‑bike legislation and safety during a lunchtime online session with transportation experts.
- Klunkerz 20th Anniversary Screening — Thu, May 21 Watch the iconic mountain‑biking documentary at Jefferson Branch Library, followed by a Q&A with director William Savage.
- Family Fun Day & Family Ride — Sat, May 23 Start the morning at La Pintoresca Park with a casual neighborhood ride.
- Kids Learn to Ride Class — Sun, May 24 Certified instructors teach kids the balance‑first method at Robinson Park. Pre‑registration encouraged.
- Pasadena E‑bike Expo — Sun, May 24 Test‑ride electric bikes from local shops at the Rose Bowl Area H, 2:00 – 4:00 pm.
- Family Bike Festival — Sat, May 30 A lively celebration at Hastings Branch Library with safety checks, decorating stations, and a family ride.
- Ice Cream Ride — Sun, May 31 A sweet finale: pedal to local ice‑cream spots and sample treats from 1:00 – 4:00 pm.
A Month Made for Every Rider
Local bike shops will also host rides and classes throughout May, adding even more ways to get involved. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist, a curious beginner, or a family looking for weekend fun, Pasadena Bike Month offers something for everyone.
Full event details and registration information are available at PasadenaBikeMonth.
Ready to ride, Pasadena? The city is waiting, one pedal stroke at a time.
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