Everything You Need to Know About the 2024 Tour De Proviso
Get ready to pedal your way into a day of excitement, camaraderie, and two-wheeled adventure with the Tour de Proviso! This community bike ride is not just your ordinary event; it's a pedal-powered extravaganza that's all about bringing people together. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or someone who hasn't dusted off their bike in years, this family-friendly and fun-filled day is your ticket to a memorable experience.
With a mission to promote health, wellness, transportation, and tourism in the Proviso region, it's time to pump some air into those tires, grab your helmet, and join us for a celebration like no other!
A relatively new annual tradition, the Tour De Proviso all started as a simple bike ride, but has quickly turned into so much more. In 2020, Mayor Katrina Thompson of Broadview was looking for a way to encourage residents to stay active at the beginning of the pandemic so she invited them to join her on a weekly outdoor bike ride.
After the weekly rides became so popular, and people from other townships started to join in, Mayor Thompson knew this was the perfect opportunity to bring people together and showcase all the communities have to offer — and so the Tour De Proviso was born.
In 2021, Mayor Thompson gained the support and participation of Bellwood, Maywood, Melrose Park, Oak Park, River Forest, and Riverside.
So, what began as a Sunday cycle is now a wonderful tribute to many of the western suburbs of Chicago, their unique stories, and the people that make the towns so vibrant.
The Tour De Proviso serves as a unifying force that transcends the boundaries of 14 different towns and focuses on community impact. With more than 500 registered riders participating in last year’s race, this event has created a powerful sense of community and togetherness. In addition to providing a fun day for all, the event aims to foster lasting relationships and encourage ongoing participation in cross-community events and engagement.
This year’s Tour De Proviso is hosted by the Village of Bellwood on Saturday, October 5, 2024. The advanced ride will take place throughout the beautiful town, starting at Bellwood Village Hall at 8 a.m. with check-in at 7 a.m. The family-fun riders will follow a similar but smaller course of 6 miles. That race kicks off at 8:30 a.m. Check out the routes here.
The event is free and is open to all age groups and features a community expo afterward for riders to meet, mingle, and learn more about the participating communities.
Riders should plan to gather around 7 a.m. for both races.
After the ride, riders and their families are welcome to stay awhile and see all that Bellwood has to offer.
Parking is free and is available for riders, vendors, and friends and family.
So whether you’re coming to ride, or coming to watch, you can park your car for free 615 Eastern Avenue, Bellwood, IL.
Or click here for map directions to Bellwood Village Hall.
Located just 13 miles west of Chicago, Bellwood is an inviting residential neighborhood with great schools, beautiful bicycle trails and green spaces, as well as restaurants, grocery stores, fitness centers, and other retail. It’s also just a short drive to such fun attractions as the Brookfield Zoo, which means there’s plenty to do while you’re visiting!
The Tour de Proviso is your passport to a day of fun, community spirit, and healthy adventures. Whether you're a biking enthusiast or just looking for a good time with family and friends, this event has something for everyone.
With a focus on health, wellness, transportation, and showcasing the beauty of the Proviso region, it's time to roll those wheels, and be part of something truly special. So, mark your calendars. We hope to see you there, ready to pedal your way to unforgettable memories!
When is this year’s Tour de Proviso?
This year’s Tour de Proviso takes place on Saturday, October 5, 2024.
Where is this year’s Tour de Proviso?
This year’s Tour de Proviso is in Bellwood, Illinois.
Where does this year’s Tour de Proviso start and end?
This year’s Tour de Proviso starts and ends at Bellwood Village Hall.
What time is this year’s Tour de Proviso?
Riders should gather at Bellwood Village Hall around 7 a.m. and be prepared for an 8 a.m. or 8:30 a.m. start, depending on which ride you're participating in.
Where does the ride go?
The route for this year's Tour de Proviso goes throughout the town of Bellwood.
How long is the ride?
This year’s ride will take about an hour for most riders.
What are the safety considerations for this year’s Tour de Proviso?
This year’s Tour de Proviso will be guided by the local police department. There will be a water station available for those that need it. Riders needing to exit the ride early will have an opportunity to do so.
Do I bring my own bike? Are there bikes available to rent?
Riders will need to bring their own bike for this year’s Tour de Proviso..
What is the community expo?
The community expo following Tour de Proviso is an opportunity for riders and others to meet and mingle in Bellwood. There will be booths set up by various vendors and communities to learn more about the participating communities. The expo will start at 9:30 a.m. and is open to everyone, including non-riders.
How do we get to this year’s Tour de Proviso?
The best way to arrive at Bellwood Village Hall is by car or bike, if you’re local!
Who can participate in this year’s Tour de Proviso?
The ride is open to everyone of all ages and riding abilities. Non-Bellwood residents are also invited to participate.
Is there a cost for participating in this year’s Tour de Proviso?
The ride is free.
Where do I register for this year’s Tour de Proviso?
Register online for this year’s Tour de Proviso. Use the registration form to register each participant individually.
What happens at the end of the ride?
Stick around for the community expo or explore Bellwood!