May 15

National Bike To School Day

Pedal your way to school on National Bike To School Day - get some fresh air, exercise and save the environment!

Yearly Date

Third Friday in May

Observed in

Introduction

It's time to get your bike out and join the fun on National Bike To School Day! This day, which falls on the third Friday in May, was created to encourage kids of all ages to choose biking over other forms of transportation when it comes to getting to school. Not only is this a great way for them to stay active, but it also helps reduce congestion around schools and keep our planet healthy. Plus, biking can be a lot of fun! So lace up those shoes and grab your helmets – it's time to hit the road!

National Bike To School Day Timeline

1800s

Invention of the Bicycle

The concept of the modern bicycle was introduced, paving the way for future biking events and activities.

1956

Bike Boom Begins

Following the end of WWII and increased suburban living, bike usage saw a significant surge in popularity.

1965

Advent of Bike Safety Laws

The first bike helmet laws were enacted, ensuring a safer environment for all bikers.

2000

National Bike to Work Day Established

National Bike to Work Day was established, encouraging not only school students but also working adults to bike to their workplaces.

2012

First National Bike to School Day

The first National Bike to School Day was observed in the United States, promoting health, safety, and environmental awareness.

How to Celebrate National Bike To School Day

1 Ride with the family

Gather the family and set out on a biking adventure. Let each family member pick their favorite route, and go explore your local area. Make a game of it and see who can find the most interesting things.

2 Participate in a bike parade

Many cities host special bike parades for National Bike To School Day. Decorate your bikes with streamers and balloons, and join others in the parade. Show your enthusiasm for biking to school by joining in the fun!

3 Organize a bike train

Bike trains are a great way to get your friends involved in biking to school. Invite your friends to meet at a central location and ride together to school. Make a game of it and have prizes for the most creative bike.

4 Plan a scavenger hunt

Plan a scavenger hunt that requires participants to find clues as they bike around town. Make sure to include some fun activities such as taking pictures or stopping at certain landmarks.

5 Form a bike club

Start a bike club at school to encourage more students to bike to school. You can organize group rides, host competitions, or plan special events to celebrate National Bike To School Day.

Why We Love National Bike To School Day

It's good for the environment

Riding your bike to school is a great way to reduce pollution and help protect the environment. Every car that gets taken off the road helps improve the air quality, which in turn can help reduce asthma attacks, allergies and other health issues.

It promotes physical activity

Riding a bike gives you an opportunity to get some exercise and stay active. Even if it's a short ride, it's still beneficial because it engages your muscles, improves coordination, and strengthens your cardiovascular system. Plus, it's fun!

It saves money

Using a bicycle instead of driving saves money on gas, insurance and vehicle maintenance costs. It also can save time, since navigating traffic by bike can often be faster than being stuck in a car in dense areas. So if you want to save money while getting some exercise and doing your part for the environment, biking to school is definitely the way to go!