Critical Mass 2023-2024 in Chicago

To highlight environmental issues and the safety of pedestrians and cyclists, a large group of cyclists convenes for a ride through Chicago's streets. This event, known as Critical Mass, serves as a focal point for the city's biking community, emphasizing that bicycles deserve a place on streets typically dominated by cars.

Event Highlights

As dusk approaches, hundreds of cyclists gather and ride through Chicago's streets in a dense pack. The route is spontaneous and can change on the fly, with no prior arrangements. While some criticize the event for its spontaneity and the inconvenience it causes during rush hour, its popularity continues to grow.

Dates

Ultimately, this is a great way to come together, occurring just once a month—on the last Friday. The ride departs from Daley Plaza downtown at around 6 pm.

How to Participate

Radically inclusive, this event draws thousands of participants when the weather is favorable. There are no memberships, officers, leaders, rules, dues, platforms, or schedules. No registration is needed. It's a spontaneous gathering, not an organization. It's simply a bike ride. Regardless of the season or weather, it's free and fun. Just show up with your bike.