Bicyclists take note, there’s still time to register for the Annual Tour de Chesapeake happening this weekend in Matthews County, Virginia. A beloved family-friendly riding event now in its 26th year, Tour de Chesapeake offers the perfect opportunity for getting back outdoors with fresh air and exercise just in time for the newly arrived spring season.
The scenic cycling route options along Virginia’s Middle Peninsula (which you get to choose from) all offer the opportunity to ride through some pretty spectacular sites and highlights within the surrounding region. Don’t worry about the terrain, though; the grounds are flat, well-maintained, and accessible for those of all ages and activity levels to enjoy.
There will also be plenty of pleasing stops to peruse along the way! Free onsite camping will even be offered for those interested.
In addition to the main biking event, the weekend promises to be one of nonstop excitement and extra-special endeavors. From live entertainment and music to delicious eats and treats, kayaking and other eco-touring events, to an awesome party at Williams Wharf Landing Saturday evening. Many of the small local businesses in the vicinity will be staying open later and even offering special deals throughout the weekend.
This is also the 13th year that “Art deTour” will be taking place in tandem with the Saturday ride. Stop by between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. to check out all the artists and artisans gathered around Main Street and the Bay School Community Arts Center. Click on the Art deTour event link to learn more.
Tour de Chesapeake officially kicks off on Friday afternoon, May 16, with the option to check in or still register opening up between 4 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. at Thomas Hunter Middle School. The evening will offer live music by Capn Dar (tunes of Buffett, Chesney & more) and a baked goods/snacks sale by MHS After Prom Committee.
Things will get started bright and early on Saturday morning, with check-in and last-minute registration taking place between 7 a.m. and 10 a.m. at Thomas Hunter Middle School. Sales on breakfast items and coffee will begin as early as 6:30 a.m., though. All riding routes will open at 8 a.m. and will remain open through the official closing at 5 p.m.
Throughout the day, there will be ongoing activities and extras. Riders and attendees alike note that water taxi operations will be ongoing throughout the day (and can ferry your bikes too). Box Lunches by Creekside Catering for those who preregistered will be available from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
An enticing array of excitement is set to fill Saturday’s festivities. Some of these highly anticipated happenings will include a Farmers Market operating on the Court Green between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m., the Annual Art detour from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., kayaking with Craven Expeditions, sightseeing tours with Mathews Deadrise Charters, live music, a “Tour Dessert” by Central Village Homemaker, massages, recovery yoga, and so much more.
Then comes the highly anticipated Party on the Wharf at Williams Wharf Landing from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. To attend is free, and all are welcome.
While Saturday is the main day, and the portion of the race that is fully supported, cyclists are encouraged to continue the ride throughout Sunday, May 18. All signage will remain in place until 2:00 p.m., with all the same rest stops along the route still available to riders. Various town activities, special sales, and more will also be ongoing throughout the day.
To learn more about Tour de Chesapeake, to register, get directions, discover featured locations, and for all other essential details, visit the website at www.tourdechesapeake.org.
In addition to this event, Mid-Atlantic cyclists take note of many other excellent regional rides throughout the year as well. These include the upcoming Le Tour De Shore (ESVA) in Melfa, Virginia, this June, the 39th Annual Amish Country Bike Tour in Dover, Delaware, this September, and Salisbury, Maryland’s famed Sea Gull Century, also in September.