On April 2nd, Tysons Community Alliance (TCA) hosted our first-ever Pedal with Petals Family Bike Ride event at The Plaza at Tysons Corner Center. The Plaza was buzzing with energy as participants of all ages and experience levels came together to celebrate their love for cycling.
The crowd’s enthusiasm was as strong as the wind itself. Community members and volunteers descended upon The Plaza early Sunday morning in anticipation of the ride.
The Family Bike Ride event drew dozens of participants, including children, adults, and even some furry friends. The excitement was palpable as participants geared up, mounted their bikes and eagerly awaited the start of the ride.
With a few words of encouragement from National Cherry Blossom Festival President Diana Mayhew and TCA Board Member Donald Garrett, the riders set off on their journey.
In designated waves, bike marshals provided by Fairfax Alliance for Better Bicycling (FABB) escorted riders across The Plaza every half hour. Cyclists enjoyed exploring Tysons on two wheels while basking in the sights and smells of spring.
Cheers from volunteers and TCA staff could be heard from all directions as each wave of riders returned from their journey and recharged with refreshments and snacks. The festivities did not stop at the bike ride. Attendees were treated to a full morning of fun.
The face painting station was a hit as children and adults alike rocked vibrant and colorful facial designs. TREK, a well-known cycling brand, provided complimentary bike repairs, ensuring that everyone’s ride was in tip-top shape. And, thanks to a DJ, the event was complete with music that kept the party going all morning long.
As TCA’s first event in partnership with the National Cherry Blossom Festival, the family bike ride event was a truly spectacular way to kick off the beginning of what we hope to be an annual cherry blossom tradition.
“It’s incredible to witness the community come together in celebration of the onset of spring and the budding relationship between Tysons and the National Cherry Blossom Festival,” said TCA’s Interim CEO Rich Bradley. “Events and opportunities such as these are the reason the TCA was created.”
Look out for next year’s event for new routes, festivities and a wonderful community experience for all.
