The month of June in each year is officially recognized as Ontario Bike Month — a time to celebrate all things to do with cycling through community engagement, education, and fun!
Cycling has many benefits, not the least of which is healthier, more connected communities. It encourages regular exercise, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and decreases traffic congestion. It not only supports personal well-being, but also strengthens community relationships and enhances quality of life for residents.
Many activities are happening in Peterborough this month, and every type of cyclist — from beginner to bike connoisseur — can get involved and start pedalling.
Pedal-powered fun for kids
Let’s Bike! cycling events (free)
Let’s Bike! are free drop-in events in Peterborough and Norwood for kids and families offering a variety of fun and educational stations. Children can learn about bike equipment, safety and handling skills, and have an opportunity to decorate their bikes, win exciting prizes, and more. Families can RSVP online or simply drop-in.
Let’s Bike! Peterborough take place on Tuesday, June 17, from 3:30 to 7 p.m. at the Balsillie Family YMCA at 123 Aylmer Street South. RSVP at letsbikeptbo25.eventbrite.ca.
Let’s Bike! Norwood takes place on Wednesday, June 25, from 3:30 to 7 p.m. at the Asphodel-Norwood Community Centre at 88 Alma Street. RSVP at letsbikenorwood25.eventbrite.ca.
GreenUP Summer Ride Club (free)
Join GreenUP’s annual Summer Ride Club, a fun self-directed series of challenges to encourage cycling for young riders and their families all summer long.
Participants complete nine unique challenges designed to help them explore the city by bike and document their progress in their Summer Ride Club passport. Those who submit their passports before the end-of-summer deadline have a chance to win a grand prize gift card to a local bike shop, and runner up bike-themed gift bags.
The 2025 Summer Ride Club kicks off at Quaker Foods City Square at 215 Charlotte Street in Peterborough on Thursday, June 26.
At this event, or anytime through the summer, families can register riders to unlock a weekly newsletter, prize draws, and an invite to the end-of-summer celebration. Passports can be picked up at GreenUP (378 Alymer Street North) or B!KE: The Peterborough Community Bike Shop (293 George Street).
GreenUP Urban Bike Adventures summer camp (fees apply)
Based in downtown Peterborough at GreenUP’s Aylmer Street location, campers aged nine to 12 meet and explore the city by bike. This full-day roaming camp is infused with opportunities for fun, friendship, education, and climate action.
Under the guidance of trained cycling educators, campers build bike skills through Canada’s HopOn Curriculum — a games-based program that teaches the joys of cycling safely. GreenUP offers seven weeks of this camp in 2025. Register at greenup.on.ca/camp-programs/.
Peterborough Cycling Club Dirt Squad and Race Team programs (fees apply)
The Dirt Squad Program offered by the Peterborough Cycling Club (PCC) teaches youth aged six to 17 how to safely and skillfully navigate mountain-biking terrain. The program builds riding confidence, develops technical skills, and fosters a love for outdoor adventure.
The PCC also offers competitive youth riders the opportunity to train for mountain bike races through their Race Team program, developing advanced skills for challenging terrain. This program is ideal for riders looking to take their cycling to the next level.
For more information, email youth@peterboroughcc.com or visit www.peterboroughcc.com.
Peterborough Canada Day Parade and bike decorating competition (free)
Just one day after Bike Month ends, families are invited to “Roll, Stroll and Celebrate” at Peterborough’s family-friendly Canada Day celebration taking place on Tuesday, July 1. Join a community ride and a bike decorating contest, taking place at 10:45 a.m. at City Hall at 500 George Street North.
Bike Month Adventures for Grown-Ups
Peterborough Cycling Club recreational and competitive rides (fees apply)
Join the Peterborough Cycling Club for a variety of rides throughout the summer months. Whether new to group rides or an experienced cyclist, there’s a ride for everyone.
Recreational riders can choose from six skill levels starting with level one for beginners new to group riding and progressing up to level six for seasoned cyclists. Competitive drop rides are designed for those with experience in fast-paced group cycling.
For more information, visit www.peterboroughcc.com.
Glow Rides with B!KE (free)
Celebrate the summer solstice on two wheels with B!KE: The Peterborough Community Cycling Hub. Meet at Quaker Foods City Square at 215 Charlotte Street in downtown Peterborough at 8 p.m. Friday, June 20 for a magical evening ride to Beavermead Park.
Enjoy sunsets, sparklers, and community fun into the night. Follow @communitybikeshop on social media for more dates to come.
Sign up for the Pedal Poll, Canada’s national bike count (free)
Prefer to support Bike Month on foot? Help make a national impact by signing up for the Pedal Poll, Canada’s national bicycle count. By dedicating just two hours between June 3 and 8 to count bike riders in Peterborough, volunteers can contribute valuable data to improve cycling infrastructure across Canada. Register at velocanadabikes.org/pedalpoll.
Organizers hope these events inspire everyone to get involved and enjoy all that Peterborough has to offer during Bike Month.
It’s the perfect time to take advantage of the June weather, get outside, and start rolling.
Happy cycling!
