Tour de Palm Springs returning to the desert for its 26th year
Tour De Palm Springs starts on Saturday at 6:30 a.m. on Palm Canyon Drive.
The charity bike ride hosts thousands of cyclists, walkers and spectators.
"We are expecting between 6,000 and 7,000 cyclists, which is several thousand more than last year," said Founder Tim Esser. "The majority of these cyclists are the 50 and 100-mile riders."
Tim Esser founded Tour de Palm Springs in 1998. Since then, nearly 100 local non-profits have benefited, and the event has raised $4 million over its history.
"One of the most rewarding parts of this event is giving back to our charities," said Esser. "But it’s not just about money; it’s about getting our younger generation to learn about volunteering."
During the ride, there will be nine food and entertainment stops for bikers and walkers.
Lulu California Bistro is supplying food for bikers. The Palm Springs Air Museum Pipe Band is among many live music performances that will be part of the experience.
Additionally, 2,500 volunteers will help keep the bikers safe throughout their route.
"I’m really happy on behalf of the 2,500 volunteers that we have to put on the most festive bicycle events in America," said Esser. "We’re excited to bring people from all over the county here to enjoy the finest scenery and the best biking in the world."
