Tour de Palm Springs returns this week

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) - Thousands of cyclists will take over streets across the valley on Saturday for the 28th annual "Tour de Palm Springs."

The event is one of the largest charity cycling rides in the country, drawing up to 8,000 participants from nearly every state and several countries each year.

Routes range from short walks to a 102-mile ride, all starting in downtown Palm Springs and spanning the Coachella Valley.

It has raised millions of dollars for local charities since it began in 1998.

"We have about 100 to 150 nonprofit organizations that sign up through us. So everything they raise and everything they bring in, we give right back to them as a donation for their charity," Kathleen Esser, executive director of the Tour de Palm Springs.

This year's theme honors military members, first responders, and veterans. Click here for more information.