Rolling Through the Week: Bike Week Winnipeg 2025 Celebrates Community, Confidence and Two-Wheeled Fun
Bike Week Winnipeg officially hit the pavement Sunday, June 8, kicking off a full week of two-wheeled events running until June 14. Designed to promote cycling for commuting, recreation and joy, the initiative features group rides, workshops and family-friendly events citywide—all while celebrating Winnipeg’s growing cycling culture.
From pit stops to pedal parties: Bike Week rolls out fun for all ages
One of the big highlights is Bike to Work Day, taking place Tuesday, June 10. For early risers, that means pit stops across the city, running from 6:30 to 9 a.m., offering everything from refreshments to swag—and a chance to connect with fellow cyclists. A group ride leaves from Central Winnipeg and drops into pit stops along the way, welcoming commuters to hop on or off depending on their route.
“Bike Week has been around now for 13 years, so we’re a staple,” said Dave Elmore, board chair of Bike Week Winnipeg. Elmore, a founding member of both Bike Week Winnipeg and the advocacy group Bike Winnipeg, joined Classic 107 to share what the week is all about.
“Bike Winnipeg and Bike Week Winnipeg, although they oftentimes get used [interchangeably], we are two separate organizations,” Elmore clarified. “Bike Winnipeg being the advocacy organization … and Bike Week Winnipeg starting off as Bike to Work Day.”
Since its start in 2007, the week has evolved into a broader celebration. And this year, the fun includes something for everyone—kids included. Friday features family bike parties at three YMCA locations South YMCA-YWCA (Fermor), West Portage and East Kildonan, complete with tune-ups, decorating stations and bike games.
And on Saturday, the third annual Kidical Mass for Kids returns. “It’s kind of a family and kid ride and it’s very family-friendly, very calm route,” said Elmore. “We do some bike decorating to start … and then we carry on and finish the ride actually at the Manitoba legislature where we have our week-end wind-up.”
That final celebration includes more decorating, kids activities, bike repair stations and, yes—ice cream.
Safety first: Elmore shares essential tips for smarter, smoother cycling
Elmore, a cycling educator, stressed communication is key for cyclists sharing the road. “The most important thing is communication,” he said. “Those hand signals … let people know well in advance that’s what I’m doing.”
He also emphasized the importance of shoulder checking, maintaining consistent riding lines and giving parked cars a wide berth. “That door zone is not only bigger than you think—it’s very, very painful if you happen to run into a door,” he warned.
For longer rides, Elmore recommends carrying tire levers, a patch kit, an extra tube and a small hand pump. “I’m always surprised how many people don’t understand [how to change a tire] and it becomes a fear for them,” he said. “They’re not that difficult. It’s just something you need to sort of school yourself.”
Strength in numbers: Group rides boost confidence and build community
Beyond the basics, group rides throughout the week provide confidence and community—especially for newer riders. “When you ride in a group, there’s a confidence level,” said Elmore. “All the group rides are led and controlled by experienced cyclists. So you’re never really in any level of danger and you’re just out there having fun.”
He added that many of the group rides explore both existing infrastructure and the gaps in Winnipeg’s bike network. “This gap exists and maybe this is how you could actually get through that gap,” Elmore explained, encouraging riders to discover safer and quieter routes in their own neighbourhoods.
For those looking to get involved or just stay in the loop, Elmore recommends visiting bikeweekwinnipeg.com. “Sign up for our newsletter … it’s an opportunity to get connected for the next Bike Week.”
As for this week? “You never know who you’re going to meet,” Elmore said. “When I ride that same route at the exact same time, why don’t we do it together?”
Ready to ride? Check out the full Bike Week 2025 calendar
Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or just dusting off your handlebars for the season, Bike Week Winnipeg has something for everyone. From guided group rides and morning pit stops to kid-friendly events and brewery meetups, this weeklong celebration of cycling is all about community, connection and having fun on two wheels.
And the best part? Every event is completely free. No sign-up required—just bring your bike, your helmet, and your sense of adventure.
With dozens of events happening all over the city, it’s easy to find something that fits your schedule and your style of riding. Want to ride with your kids? There’s a Critical Mass for Kids. Curious about Winnipeg’s cycling infrastructure? Try a community ride. Just looking for a coffee and a high-five on your way to work? Hit up a morning pit stop.
No matter how you roll, Bike Week invites you to join the fun, explore your city and celebrate cycling.
Pedal over to bikeweekwinnipeg.com for the full calendar of events—and get riding!