Saturday the 20th of July marks the start of the festival which will be officially opened at the Unitarian Church on Princes Street. Back due to popular demand is photographer Marcin Lewandowski’s Bike Portraits where visitors are invited to come along and get a professional portrait taken with their bicycle. There will also be the opportunity get bikes festival-ready at the Bling your Bike workshop in advance of the photoshoot.

Over the next nine days participants will be treated to a series of cycles in the city with the Cork Curiosity Cycles. For those who’d like to venture further, join in with one of the longer Cork Surrounds Cycles and Long Touring Trips.

For those ready to give their loyal steed a break there is plenty of opportunity to enjoy the festival on two feet. Get inspired by film at the Cycle Cinema, take advantage of expert advice at Cycle Safety Training, learn to maintain and repair your bike at the Bike Basics workshop, or admire the work at the Art on Two Wheels Exhibition.

Saturday 27th will see the second edition of the rollicking Vintage Velo Run, followed by a Party & Barbeque which will feature the return of the hugely popular My Lovely Bike beauty contest as well as Bike Polo.

The Bike Fair is in its second year and takes place on Sunday 28th July. Last year saw stands coming from all over the country to showcase and retail the very best in bicycle accessories and fashion as well as bikes of all shapes and styles, as well as food and refreshment stalls. The 2012 event was very well supported and organisers are hoping that the 2013 edition will have the same buzz.

Festival Coordinator Sarah Thelen says ‘’Cycling has really taken off in Cork over the last number of years and we’re delighted to see more and more people cycle into work, school and university. The message that we’re trying to get out there is that cycling is fun and accessible for everyone. It’s a great way to get around our beautiful city and to stay active in your daily life.’’

The festival celebrates cycling as easy, fun and available for everyone, a low cost, low maintenance, healthy and fun way to get around. The festival is run by a volunteer team and is supported by the National Transport Authority, the Electric Bar, the Maldron Hotel Cork, and area bike shops. See www.corkcyclingfestival.com for more details.