New Belgium Brewing in Fort Collins, Colorado, hosts many events throughout the year, but one of the biggest and (arguably) best is its annual Tour de Fat bicycle festival. Now in its 16th year, Tour de Fat remains a “traveling celebration of all things bicycle, honoring humankind’s greatest invention.” Put no means of transport before thy bike, reads rule No. 1 of the 10 commandments, so you know this is serious business!
Bicycles and beer in Fort Collins for Tour de Fat.
Photo credit: New Belgium Brewing Facebook
Tour de Fat started as a small celebration of bicycles in Fort Collins and has turned into a huge nationwide event, touring 10 different cities during the 2015 season. Each stop kicks off with a costumed bike parade through the host city and ends with a day of live music and, of course, delicious brews. If you’re picturing a rolling carnival, that image isn’t far off. Hell, the company employs eight “carnies” to work the Tour de Fat fundraising events.
But Tour de Fat isn’t all fun and games on two wheels. One of the coolest of its initiatives is the Car-for-Bike program. At every Tour de Fat stop, one person makes the ultimate sacrifice and pledges to live car-free for one year. Each car swapper is awarded a $2,250 stipend to buy their own commuter bike, and, in return, is asked to share their experiences along the way. The swapper’s car is then auctioned off, with proceeds benefiting local cycling organizations. (Do you want to swap your car? New Belgium is accepting submissions!)
The 2015 Tour de Fat season kicked off in May in Washington, D.C., and ended October 3 in Tempe, Arizona. Total funds raised for 2015 haven’t been tallied yet, but last year, Tour de Fat raised $625,716 for local nonprofits at 10 different stops. Since the inaugural event in 2000, Tour de Fat has raised close to $4 million. Considering the event is free and all proceeds are generated from beer and merchandise sales, along with donations, those are very impressive numbers.
Scene from the 2014 Boise Tour de Fat.
Photo credit: New Belgium Brewing Facebook
If you’re on the fence about attending Tour de Fat in the future, let us help you make up your mind. It’s one of those things you just have to experience for yourself. The cities for 2016 haven’t been announced yet, but as soon as they are, start planning your trip. You won’t regret it.
To find other New Belgium events near you, check out the brewer’s events page for info!
