National Bike to School Day is a fun and interactive way to promote biking and walking to school safely.

National Bike to School Day is the first Wednesday in May annually and was created to build on the success of International Walk to School Day. The inaugural event on May 9, 2012 focused on bicycling safety and was held in coordination with the League of American Bicyclists’ National Bike Month.

During Bike to School Day, staff lead a variety of events including safety instruction with practical application of riding experiences to school. We aim to help increase physical activity while also educating students on the importance of safety.

Here are a few guidelines to help you plan an event at your school:

• Bike to School Day events can be simple or elaborate. Be sure to first obtain the school principal’s approval.
• Register your school at www.walkbiketoschool.org
• Choose a time and a centralized meeting point, such as a nearby church, YMCA, recreation center or mall parking lot. Secure approval to gather at this location.
• Invite local law enforcement/fire rescues to attend or make them aware of the event.
• Publicize your event through announcements, emails, newsletters home to parents.
• Distribute permission forms to get an estimate of how many bikers/walkers will be participating.
• Students should be instructed to bring their own helmet if they want to participate. If they need one, this should be known before the event to make sure enough helmets are ready for students as they arrive.
• Generate excitement with your students.
• Principals, assistant principals and volunteers greet students and parents on the day of your event.
• Principal or assistant principal may speak to the students and parents to explain the environmental benefits of biking, as well as following safety rules.

Ideas to consider:

• Stickers, wristbands and other incentive items: A small reward can be distributed for participation.
• Pre-event bike safety: Bike to School Day events can be a great way to cap off biking safety education with a helmet or bike check.
• Guests: Invited guests (local celebrities, city mayor or mascots) might bike with students or speak to them when they arrive.
• Refreshments: Reach out to your local grocery store or restaurant for donations.