Author: Dublin City Council

The Velo-city Dublin Bike Parade is shaping up to be an event not to be missed.  We are jam-packing it with music, theatre, sport, culinary delights plus of course a designated UNESCO biosphere!

Kicking off with some distinct Irish culture, delegates will congregate at the recently unveiled Luke Kelly Statue. One of the founding members of the band The Dubliners, Kelly is known for his distinctive singing style and is regarded as one of Ireland's greatest folk singers.  Delegates will be treated to some of his most loved songs as they prepare to set off.

In addition, an extract of the award winning play by Steward Parker, Spokesong will be performed at the start of the parade to entertain and excite the delegates! The play will be performed on a mobile stage towed by a bicycle. Frank, the lead character, will address those gathered. The play is directed by Rough Magic award winning artistic director Lynn Parker (who is the niece of Steward Parker).  The actors will cycle in the parade with a live piano performance on route.  Two other extracts will be performed at the end of the parade in St. Anne's park. 'This will be the first time this play is performed in an outdoor setting, so this is an opportunity not to be missed’ says Donna Cooney coordinator of Spokesong play in Velo-city.

Leading the Parade will be The Freedom Machine – women on bikes and in costume celebrating the important historical role of bicycles for suffragettes and the emancipation of Women.  Participants will carry handmade banners depicting Irish suffragettes.  You are welcome to join in the chant ‘Votes for Women, Votes for Bikes’.

Delegates through the streets of Dublin towards the Sutton to Sandycove (S2S) cycle route - one of Dublin City Council’s and the National Transport Authority’s flagship cycling projects.  Here, delegates will be met by a host of community groups, families and cycling enthusiasts who will follow the delegation along the UNESCO designated Biosphere, a location that is one of the most highly designated and ecologically sensitive sites in the world.  As participants cycle along the coastline, they can enjoy unparalleled views of Dublin Bay before completing the cycle in the beautiful surrounds of St. Anne’s Park.

A host of spectator and participation activities await you in the Park.  But first, a refill and re-fuel is required.  We have teamed up with Refill Ireland to ensure you rehydrate sustainably – reusable cups will be on hand to allow you refill at your leisure throughout the evening.  A host of food traders serving a diverse hot food selection from around the world will be on site catering for all individual tastes – whether you’re in the mood for slow-cooked meats, fish and chips (always a popular choice after some fresh sea air!), falafel, baked goods or tempting picnic offerings.  We are sure all taste buds will be satisfied.  Bear in mind, although you will want to travel light for the Bike Parade, be aware that while the water is free along with all the activities, you will need cash to make purchases from the food stalls (credit cards may not be accepted). 

The Activities

No rest for the wicked – we are sure that even if you feel like a rest - we have an activity to tempt all.  We have organised a selection of fun games for you to try out including cricket, yoga, athletics, ultimate Frisbee, Mountain Bike and BMX courses and rounders plus you will get to try out our National Games – Gaelic Football and Hurling/Camogie.  

Not only that, we have a spectacular arena show for you – The Ultimate Extreme Battle – Mountain Bike Stunt Rider versus BMX Stunt Rider versus Freerunner.  You can expect to see double backflips from the amazing freerunners who featured on Britain’s Got Talent!

If, after the cycle, you would like a more relaxing experience, do not worry, we have many more options lined up such as further extracts from Spokesong which will be performed exclusively for you in the Park, viewing a display of a Model City designed by children which would allow them to cycle and play more, or taking a historical tour of the Park including a tour of the Red Stables. You could also visit St. Anne’s Park famous Rose Garden or play some Giant games like Jenga, Chess, Lawn Darts, Dominoes.    

And for those who wish to get back on their bikes and explore more Dublin, we will send plenty of suggestions your way!

For more information on the Velo-city Programme, Exhibition and Registration go to: https://www.velo-city2019.com 
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