National Bike to School Day

National Bike to School Day is celebrated annually on the first Wednesday of May. It’s a day dedicated to encouraging students across the United States to embrace bicycling as a fun, healthy, and environmentally friendly way to commute to school.​ ¹

History of National Bike to School Day

The inaugural National Bike to School Day took place on May 9, 2012, marking a significant expansion of the efforts initiated by the National Walk to School Day, which began in 1997. This new event was established to promote biking as a viable and enjoyable mode of transportation for students, aligning with the broader goals of National Bike Month celebrated each May. The initiative was spearheaded by the National Center for Safe Routes to School in collaboration with the League of American Bicyclists, aiming to foster safer and more active commuting options for students nationwide.

Since its inception, National Bike to School Day has seen growing participation, with thousands of schools and communities organizing events to encourage students to bike to school. These events often include safety workshops, group rides, and community celebrations, all aimed at promoting the benefits of biking and ensuring the safety of young cyclists.​

Why is National Bike to School Day important?

National Bike to School Day serves as a catalyst for promoting physical activity among children, addressing concerns related to sedentary lifestyles and childhood obesity. By encouraging students to bike to school, the event fosters habits that contribute to long-term health and well-being.​

Moreover, the day emphasizes the importance of creating safe and accessible routes for students to commute by bike. It brings together parents, educators, community leaders, and policymakers to advocate for infrastructure improvements, such as bike lanes and traffic-calming measures, that ensure the safety of young cyclists. This collective effort not only benefits students but also enhances the overall safety and livability of communities.​

• Promotes physical health and combats childhood obesity.
• Encourages the development of safe biking infrastructure.
• Fosters community engagement and awareness.
• Reduces traffic congestion and environmental impact.
• Instills lifelong healthy habits in students.​

How to Celebrate National Bike to School Day

Celebrating National Bike to School Day can be both fun and impactful. Schools and communities can organize group rides, often referred to as “bike trains,” where students, accompanied by adults, ride together along designated routes. These group rides ensure safety and build a sense of camaraderie among participants.​

Additionally, schools can host bike safety workshops, teaching students essential skills such as proper helmet use, hand signals, and road awareness. Engaging local law enforcement or bike advocacy groups can further enhance these educational efforts. Encouraging students to decorate their bikes or participate in friendly competitions can add an element of excitement to the day.​

• Organize or join a “bike train” with classmates.
• Attend a bike safety workshop or seminar.
• Decorate bikes with creative themes or school colors.
• Collaborate with local organizations for community rides.
• Share experiences and photos on social media to inspire others.​

National Bike to School Day Dates Table

1. https://www.walkbiketoschool.org/[↩]