URBANA, Ill. (Chambana Today) — Residents across Champaign County are invited to hop on their bikes and ride into a week of free community events promoting safe and active transportation, beginning with the 15th Annual Bike to Work Day on Wednesday, September 10, and continuing with the 18th Annual Light the Night bike light giveaway on Tuesday, September 16.

Presented by the Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District (MTD), the University of Illinois, and the City of Champaign, Bike to Work Day runs from 7–10 a.m. at 16 Welcome Stations across Champaign, Urbana, Savoy, Rantoul, and the U of I campus. Cyclists of all ages and experience levels are invited to stop by for free snacks, coffee, bicycling information, and a limited-edition Bike Month 2025 t-shirt (while supplies last). This year’s shirt reminds riders they can “Bike anytime: to work, to play, tomorrow, today!”

New Welcome Stations this year include Champaign Centennial Park, First Street Trail at Carle Orthopedics, and Campus North, adding to the eight returning stations on campus. The full map of locations can be found here. Cyclists are encouraged to pre-register at cuBikeMonth.org and check in at any station.

The festivities continue on Tuesday, September 16, from 4–7 p.m., with Light the Night, a free bike light giveaway at four campus locations: Alma Mater, Hallene Gateway, Ikenberry Commons quad, and Green Street at Lincoln Avenue. Cyclists must bring their bike to receive lights. This event supports Illinois law, which requires front lights and either a rear light or reflector when riding after dark.

Rain dates are set for September 11 (Bike to Work Day) and September 17 (Light the Night). Weather updates will be posted on the C-U Bike Month Facebook page and cuBikeMonth.org.

Additional upcoming events include:

  • Friday Kickapoo Rail Trail (KRT) Rides – September 12 & 26

  • Park(ing) Day – September 18

  • Let’s Ride Illinois Champaign – September 21

  • Walk ‘n’ Roll to School Day – October 8

Organized by a coalition including the Champaign County Regional Planning Commission, MTD, C-U Safe Routes to School Project, local municipalities, and community partners, these events aim to promote bicycling and walking as everyday transportation options.

Bike to Work Day participants are also invited to support the Earn-a-Bike Program through the C-U SRTS Project, which teaches students bike maintenance and safety. Graduates receive a free bike, lock, lights, and helmet. Donations can be made during event registration.

For more event info and registration, visit cuBikeMonth.org.