A month full of free bicycle-friendly activities kicked off June 1 as Saugeen Shores joins communities across Ontario to celebrate Bike Month. In a Town media release, this is Saugeen Shores’ third official Bike Month and includes guided bike rides, a Bike to School Challenge, Kids Bike Night, and Bike to Work Day.

The Bike to School Challenge, a friendly competition between the local elementary schools, takes place June 10 to 14. On June 11 the first Kids Bike Night in Southampton will take place at the Fairy Lake Pavilion from 5 to 7 p.m. The event includes trail rides and a bike maintenance clinic hosted by Martin’s Bicycle Shop, as well as a barbecue provided by the Southampton Rotary Club. Please note, the Fairy Lake Trail will be closed for this event.

Bike Month isn’t just for children. Adults are encouraged to Bike to Work on Thursday, June 27 for the Town’s second Bike to Work Day. Participants are also invited to stop by Coulter Parkette in Port Elgin or the Southampton Town Hall for free coffee and treats from 7:30 to 9 a.m.

“Bike Month is an excellent opportunity for people of all ages to get out and explore what Saugeen Shores has to offer,” said Mayor Luke Charbonneau. “These activities are an excellent example of how we are continuing our work to be a bicycle-friendly community and I encourage everyone to take part.”

The Town of Saugeen Shores continues its partnership with Martin’s Bicycle Shop and the Southampton Handlebar Club. Martin’s Bicycle Shop will host regularly scheduled guided community bike rides from June to September and one-off specialty rides. Rides are free to participate in and depart from Martin’s Bicycle Shop. Tours include Tuesday Breakfast Rides and the Wednesday Farmer’s Market Tour.

The public is invited to share photos with @SaugeenShoresON on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram using the hashtags #ssbikemonth #exploretheshore #bikemonth.

Residents are also encouraged to check out our new interactive cycling map SaugeenShores.ca/CyclingMap

A full 2019 Bike Month calendar and more information related to cycling in Saugeen Shores, visit SaugeenShores.ca/BikeMonth