A variety of programs ranging from a citizen bicycle ride to performances and hands-on experiences

Bucheon City announced that it will host the '13th Bucheon Citizens Bicycle Festival' from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM on October 24 at Bucheon Central Park, providing an opportunity for citizens to share the joy of cycling.

Held biennially starting in 2024, the Bicycle Festival is a participatory event encompassing health, safety, and culture. It is designed to foster communication among citizens and spread a culture of safe everyday bicycle use.

The festival kicks off with pre-opening performances, including traditional pungmulnori (folk music), a bicycle performance, and a choir, followed by an opening ceremony at 2:00 PM, a citizen bicycle ride, and various hands-on programs. During the opening ceremony, commendations will be awarded to eight model citizens who have contributed to promoting bicycle use, alongside a lucky draw for attendees.

Starting at 2:40 PM, a group bicycle ride featuring approximately 300 participants, including citizens and bicycle club members, will take place. Participants will cycle a 5.2 km course starting from Bucheon Central Park, traveling along major downtown roads before returning to the starting point, sharing the joy of riding together and the value of bicycles as an eco-friendly mode of transportation.

The bicycle ride is open to citizens aged 16 and older who wear helmets. Minors must be accompanied by a parent.

A variety of interactive programs open to all citizens will be operated at the festival venue. Family-friendly activities include an exhibition of unique bicycles, making cotton candy using self-powered bicycles, assembling bicycle models, tattoo stickers, and caricatures.

In addition, a "Bicycle Health Checkup Center" will be operated to inspect and repair bicycles, alongside a medical support booth providing health consultations and guidance on health management methods.

Following the ride, celebratory performances—including balance step walking, shuffle dance, and taekwondo demonstrations, as well as an invited singer's concert—will add to the festive atmosphere.

Lee Hyung-rae and Go Yoon-hwa, co-chairpersons of the Bucheon Citizens Bicycle Festival Promotion Committee, shared their remarks: "We hope this festival will be an opportunity for citizens to ride together, enjoy diverse programs, and experience the charm of cycling. We encourage everyone to participate with family, friends, and neighbors to help spread a healthy and safe bicycle-riding culture."

A Bucheon City official stated, "We will do our utmost, in cooperation with the promotion committee, to ensure that citizens can participate in the festival safely and joyfully. We hope this festival will create pleasant memories for citizens and serve as a meaningful occasion to communicate through bicycles."

[ⓒ Global Economic Times. 무단전재-재배포 금지]