I have heard it called the Nascar of bike races and one of Athens best life experiences. And it is making a comeback this weekend: The Twilight Criterium.
Twilight, as it is better known, is a nationally ranked, professional cycling event in Athens, Ga. and this year they are celebrating their 30th anniversary.
Although the most popular event is the Saturday night race through downtown, there are events all weekend for all ages beginning Friday afternoon.
Friday night enjoy a sports zone with games for the kids, a business expo to learn about Athens area businesses, the Georgia Cycle Sports qualifying race and the 2nd annual Twilight Jazz Festival by the University of Georgia School of Music.
Saturday get out early because Twilight doesn't only take place at night. Starting at 8 a.m. there will be an amateur race on the Greenway, at 8:30 a.m. a 5k walk/run will begin. The Twilight expo will be back all day beginning at 9 a.m. and so will the KidsZone and Jazz Festival.
Kids looking to join the race? Bring out the big wheels...literally...the Big Wheel race begins at 11:30 a.m. and children ages 5-14 are invited to participate.
The list of daily events it pretty extensive, so you will not be bored, for a full list, click here.
The big show, the criterium itself, will run from 8:45 p.m. to 10: 45 p.m. but don't get there on time, you will want to be early to get a good spot as the streets pack fairly quick.
For more information about the event click here. Get ready, this is going to be one great, long ride of a weekend.
In the meantime, check out this video from last year from OnlineAthens:
Athens Vibes
An Inside Look at Athens, Georgia