Festival Go Vélo gearing up to celebrate 40 years of Montreal’s Tour de l’Île

Back in 1985, over 3,000 people took their bikes to participate in Montreal’s very first Tour de l’Île.

40 years later, tens of thousands are gearing up to celebrate this at the annual Festival Go Vélo Montréal, from May 25 to June 1.

The week of festivities is set to see unifying cycling events, where cycling takes over the entire city to the delight of families, athletes, and cycling enthusiasts.

“With this 40th edition, the Tour de l’Île proves that it holds a special place in the hearts of Montrealers,” said Jean-François Rheault, President and CEO of Vélo Québec.

“As well as in the hearts of the thousands of visitors who enjoy the event each year.”

“Over the decades,” he added. “This iconic event has contributed significantly to building the cycling culture of our city and our province.”

This anniversary edition marks a memorable milestone for Vélo Québec, they said.

To mark this occasion, the Festival will be welcoming Julie Ringuette, actress, host, and cyclist, who is back for a third consecutive year as spokesperson.

“It is with great pleasure that I am participating, for a third year, in the Go Vélo Montréal Festival,” she said.

“This year, we are celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Tour de l’Île, the first edition of which took place in 1985. I want to highlight this event with an ’80s-inspired theme! Don’t hesitate to dress up or bring out your colorful outfits. Join me for this real open-air party!” she emphasizes.

Three major events to celebrate cycling

Défi métropolitain  – Sunday, May 25

Kicking off the Festival, the Défi métropolitain is an untimed cyclosportive ride with courses ranging from 57 to 156 km, starting from Quartier DIX30 in Brossard.

“Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or looking for a new challenge, this is the perfect opportunity to get back on the bike in the heart of Montérégie,” Vélo Québec said in a news release on Wednesday.

Tour la Nuit – Friday, May 30

Described as an “illuminated urban festival” by Vélo Québec, the 21 km route takes place on Montreal’s closed-off streets, with an electric atmosphere: music, projections, and light displays.

“A magical evening by bike,” they added. “Starting from Maisonneuve Park, to rediscover the city under the stars.”

Montreal’s 40th Tour de l’Île – Sunday, June 1

“The Tour de l’Île celebrates its 40th anniversary with a theme paying homage to the 80s,” said Vélo Québec. “In addition to musical entertainment and crowd-pleasers, cyclists are invited to come in costume for a colorful experience!”

Four route options are available to discover the eastern tip of the Island of Montreal and follow the river:

• Classic Island Tour (50 km)
• Discovery Island Tour (68, 88, or 105 km)

Nearly 40,000 participants of all ages are expected, registration is open to all ready to rock and “roll.”