Cycle carnival draws hundreds out on bikes

The centre of Bristol was taken over by bicycles yesterday (Sunday 19 September) as an estimated 600 cyclists gathered to take part in the city's Freewheelin' Carnival.

Bikes in all shapes and sizes and riders dressed in a variety of costumes took on a 2km circuit of the city centre to help celebrate Bristol's strong cycling culture. 

The event was organised by the team behind Bristol Cycle Festival, which is a two-week celebration of all things bike, taking place across the city between 11-26 September.

Along with the estimated 600 riders taking part in the carnival, another 1000 or so spectators watched the procession along the course and many of these joined riders for the after-party in Queen Square.

Prizes were awarded for the most creative costumes and most imaginatively decorated bikes. If you took part, download the PDF document or watch the video below and see if you can spot yourself.

Completing a full complement of weekend activities, Saturday saw:

• Colston Hall's four-floor foyer given over to bicycle-activities, including a talk and book signing by Rob Penn (pictured top right, from BBC programme Ride of My Life: The Story of the Bicycle) and a cycle fashion show.
• Cirque Bijou entertaining crowds in Broadmead with a BMX and trial bike display and Paddy Water's death-defying 'don't-try-this-at-home-kids' stunt show (pictured bottom right).
• igfest (the Innovative Games Festival) championing street games and playful experiences from the comfort of the saddle.
• Sideways Arts bringing their bicycle merry-go-round to the pavement area between St Augustine's Parade and Colston Avenue.

Bristol Cycle Festival runs until Sunday 25 September so make sure you check out the programme to find out about the exciting events still to come.

Downloads: 

Bristol Bike Carnival 2010.pdf