Carassauga bike tour kicks off season of community cycling events in Mississauga

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Published May 25, 2023 at 1:46 pm

Cycling enthusiasts and those looking to see the sights and get some exercise at the same time will be out in large numbers on Saturday (May 27) for the annual Tour de Carassauga group bike ride.

The large-scale cycling event is staged during Mississauga’s popular Carassauga Festival of Cultures, the 38th edition of which takes place this Friday through Sunday at venues across the city.

The Tour de Carassauga also kicks off the City of Mississauga’s annual series of Community Rides that take place throughout the spring and summer and into October.

The Carassauga cycling tour runs from 12:30 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, with rides departing from the Paramount Fine Foods Centre and proceeding on a  24.5-kilometre loop to the Frank McKenchine Community Centre, Canadian Coptic Centre and the Portuguese Cultural Centre.

“Enjoy shows, food and beverages from a variety of cultures” along the way, City officials say.

The free event is open to people of all ages.

To register, search Tour de Carassauga.

The Community Rides are free of charge and held on various weekends throughout the spring, summer and fall. City officials say residents can join in-person guided bike rides or enjoy the routes solo at a time of their choosing using wayfinding pavement markings and online maps.

“Dust off your bike and pump up your tires, because Community Rides are back. Whether you’re new to cycling or a cycling expert, come out and enjoy one of the City’s Community Rides,” City officials said in a news release unveiling the annual program. “Community Rides are free, guided rides that allow you to enjoy your neighbourhood by bike, meet new people and connect with your community all while exploring Mississauga’s growing cycling infrastructure.”

Starting Saturday, June 3, Community Rides will be taking place various weekends through the end of October. All rides take place in different neighbourhoods in Mississauga and range between five and 24 kilometres in length.

The rides take place on a variety of cycling infrastructure, including on-road bike lanes, shared pathways and multi-use trails.

Those interested in participating in the group-style rides must register and be at the starting location for the start time. City staff will be onsite at the starting location to help guide participants and answer any questions.

To register or for more information, search Community Rides, City of Mississauga.

Following is a list of the first several 2023 rides:

  • Saturday, June 3 – Toronto Pearson launch ride, starts at Mount Charles Park
  • Saturday, June 24 – Malton ride, starts at Malton Community Centre
  • Saturday, July 15 – Cooksville ride, starts at Huron Park Recreation Centre
  • Saturday, July 22 – Lakeview-Mineola ride, starts at Port Credit Arena
  • Saturday, July 29 – Streetsville ride, starts at Vic Johnston Community Centre
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