If there’s one thing that truly sets Melbourne apart, it’s our love for bikes. We’re pedal-pushing, gear-flicking, hill-coasting speed demons and proud of it. This year sees a return of the annual bike festival aptly named: ‘Bike Fest’. The festival runs from the 15th of February to the 9th of March and is jam-packed with events that’ll make your heart race.
Start 2013 with the goal of improved health and attend an event or two, they’re only one ride away.
Bikefest Treadlie Market
The Treadlie Market is one of the biggest events in Bikefest; spanning over three days and in conjunction with the Sustainable Living Festival, this market will have you cruising through stall after stall of retailers, distributors, designers, swappers and two-wheeled enthusiasts. It’s the perfect place to shop for that little trinket you’ve always wanted. And if you’re new to the road, the market serves as the ideal introduction to getting to know the ins and out of your new friend. The markets are crawling with free tips and tricks by industry professionals who are more than happy to educate you in all things bike-related.
Check out some of their featured retailers and let their products transform your bike to be that little bit more you.
Where: Birrarung Marr, Melbourne.
When: Friday 15 – 17th of February.
How Much: Free!
Bikefest Speed Dating
Remember that moment when you first bought your bike? Its gears were gleaming, bell shining and had a saddle just begging for a ride? Well, so do we. And if you’re a cycling gal or guy then there is nothing better than a partner whose heart sings the same two-wheeled tune. Bikefest wants to help make those connections and so they’re hosting a day of Bike-themed speed dating this Thursday from 6pm. Bring your bike, a smile and a handful of confidence.
It’ll be love-at-first-bike.
Where: Abbotsford Convent, under The Big Old Tree at the Boiler Room Bar, 1 St Heliers Street, Abbotsford .
When: 14 February: V-day
How Much: $25
Bookings Essential!
Book here.
The Shadow Electric Bikefest Village Picnic
Switch into fifth because this event is one smooth ride. Bikefest in combination with the outdoor cinema team, The Shadow Electric, are bringing us their village picnic for the second year in a row. The event beckons families of all sizes and kinds to pack a picnic (or feast on the offerings of Jacob’s Kitchen and Zebra Dream ice-cream) and come on down for a night of entertainment within the convent grounds. The full program is yet to be released but our sources say this night will close the fest with a cultural bang. And before you even think about worrying where to park, Bikefest will be providing their gorgeously quaint ‘bicycle valet parking’.
Where: Abbotsford Convent, under The Big Old Tree at the Boiler Room Bar, 1 St Heliers Street, Abbotsford
When: March 9th.
How Much: Free!
Projector Bike Film Night
The Projector Bike Night is serving short-films off the humble back of a three-wheeled cargo bike. This little guy is kitted out so sweet you’d think he belonged to Kanye and it’s not just his gear that will have you talking, as the concept behind ‘Projector Bike’ is that through mobility, contextually significant films are able to be shown in relevant locations. If you miss him at his Treadlie Market debut on the 15th, you can catch him again as he features on the 23rd of February for White Night.
Where: Birrarung Marr, Melbourne.
When: 15 February
How Much: Free!
Bikefest has less than a month left so be quick and take advantage of something that’s truly Melbourne.
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