Want to watch the Tour de France next to the park where Tour competitor Tyler Farrar got his pro racing start? Then head down to Seward Park tonight (Thursday) for Cascade Bicycle Club’s CycleFest.
You can watch a real life bike race, followed by a screening of the legendary 17th Stage of the Tour at dusk. And there’s stuff for kids.
For the ninth year running, we’re throwing a massive bike party for everyone! With exciting local racing, a beer garden, vendor booths, prizes, food stands, kids’ activities and the rebroadcasting of the Tour de France’s mountain-top finish — Stage 17 — on an outdoor big screen, this is a summer party not to be missed.
The festival, taking place at a new location this year at the Seward Park Amphitheatre, kicks off at 5 p.m. with the Thursday Night Bike Races. Here’s your chance to watch some exciting live races before we turn our attention to the screen. These roads are hallowed TDF ground! Pro bike racer Tyler Farrar, who is competing for stage wins in the Tour de France this year, competed in these very races before turning professional in 2003. (In addition to chasing down sprint stage victories, Farrar is also in the slow running for the Lanterne Rouge.) There will be a live announcer and a podium ceremony and prizes for the winners.
Schedule of events:
5 -9:15 p.m: Randy’s Urban Grill sausage grill, Kaosamai Thai truck and beer garden open.
5-10:30 p.m: Cycle University Beer Garden open
5 – 8:05 p.m: Seward Park Thursday Night Bike Races. The very best in bicycle road racing that Seattle has to offer!
Please note: If you are arriving via car before 8:15 p.m., you will probably need to park in the lower lots and/or surface streets and ride or walk up to the event. The curbside amphitheater parking does not open until the races end at 8:10 p.m. We will close the upper lot when it fills and mark the street as closed until 8:10 p.m.
5:30 – 7:30 p.m: Bike art table and Wheelie Fun Course open for the little ones in your peloton
8:10 p.m: Upper road open — free parking is available very close to the amphitheater
9 p.m: Drawing for Raleigh bicycle and other great prizes
9:10 – 10:45 p.m: Stage 17 of the Tour de France on the big screen!
