Philly Bike Ride returns this fall for a fifth year as thousands of cyclists will take to the streets for a 20-mile, vehicle-free ride through the heart of the city.

The weekend will kick off with a Packet Pickup Party on Friday, Oct. 16, with the ride taking place Saturday, Oct. 17, beginning at 7:30 a.m. Riders will cycle past some of Philadelphia’s most recognizable landmarks, including Independence Hall, City Hall, LOVE Park, Chinatown, Penn’s Landing and Boathouse Row.

Cyclists can also choose a shorter, 7.6-mile family-friendly course, with both routes ending near the Philadelphia Museum of Art and Rocky Steps, where riders can take part in the Visit Pennsylvania Finish Festival. This year’s post-ride celebration will feature food vendors, live entertainment, interactive activities and an expanded beverage garden. Both the Packet Pickup Party and the Finish Festival are free and open to the public.

“Five years ago, we set out to create an event that celebrated this great community, encouraged people to get active and made cycling accessible to everyone,” Philly Bike Ride Managing Director Chris Browne said in a statement. “Each year we continue to build on the experience with new partners, surprises and ways for riders to have fun while supporting access to bicycling education and healthier communities.”

A portion of proceeds from Philly Bike Ride will benefit local programs, including the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia, which works to introduce youth to cycling, and Graduation on Wheels, which brings cycling education to Philadelphia public schools.

The ride is intended for participants age 3 and older and cyclists of all experience levels. Riders ages 3 to 7 can participate for free, and registration for ages 8 to 17 is half-price. Bike rentals are also available for those who do not have their own.

For registration, the course map and a full schedule of events, visit phillybikeride.com.

MORE: Chiara Consonni races to victory at revived Philadelphia Cycling Classic

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