Feel the Speed: Moscow Cycling Festivals
There are numerous opportunities to participate in cycling races in Russia, but many of them are primarily for athletes. However, if you are keen to cycle just for fun along Moscow’s central streets, which are closed to traffic for the event, join the Moscow Cycling Festivals! There will be three of them: Spring Festival on May 18, the Summer (Night Race) on July 6, and the Autumn Festival on September 14.
Spring Cycling Festival, May 18
The spring cycling festival takes place on Sadovoye Koltso (the Garden Ring), a ring road that encircles the centre of Moscow and will be closed to traffic on the day of the event. The festival's starting village on Academician Sakharov Avenue, from the side of Three Stations Square, will open at 12:00 pm. There will be entertainment zones, a food court, music, prize draws, and competitions. Participation in the festival is free of charge.
- Requirements for the Bicycle and Equipment
To participate, you will need a bicycle that is recommended to be equipped with white and red lights (front and rear, respectively) and side reflectors. Additionally, attach a rear-view mirror and a bell to the handlebars. For safety during the race, it is recommended to wear a helmet and gloves. Rental bikes are allowed.
- How to Become a Participant
Participation is free. To join the festival, you need to register on the festival’s website. After registration, you will receive an individual participant number—you can print it out and attach it to your bike or clothes. Moreover, you have the opportunity to try your luck in an online lottery and win prizes.
After the spring festival, there will be two more in summer and autumn: the night festival is on 6 July, and the autumn festival is on 14 September. All equipment and training requirements remain the same. More detailed information about the venues and times will be available on the festival's website closer to the dates.
Watch a video of previous festivals
First date: May 18
Main location: Academician Sakharov Avenue
Cost: Free of charge, registration is required (you need your own bicycle, not electric)
All information will be published on the official website
Text by Olga Timofeeva, bachelor’s student of Foreign Languages and Intercultural Communication, intern at the HSE University English website team