What is World Bicycle Day?

World Bicycle Day celebrates the countless ways that bicycles have improved lives around the world, including those of families in developing communities who rely on bicycles as a primary means of transportation. Bicycles can provide a clean, affordable and environmentally friendly transport option, and also make a practical charity gift idea for those in need.

Let’s take a look at why World Bicycle Day is celebrated annually, and how you can celebrate the day and create a better world for children and families everywhere.

When is World Bicycle Day?

World Bicycle Day 2023 is on Saturday, 3 June.

Why is World Bicycle Day celebrated?

In April 2018, the United Nations General Assembly declared the 3rd of June as World Bicycle Day. The purpose of World Bicycle Day is to recognise the “uniqueness, longevity and versatility of the bicycle, which has been in use for two centuries”, with the primary message being that the bicycle belongs to and serves all of humanity.

The United Nations states that bicycles make education, health care and other social services more accessible to the most vulnerable populations. A transport system that supports bicycle use can provide economic growth, reduce inequalities and facilitate social inclusion for those who would otherwise have no means of transportation.

With sustainability and climate change being important global issues, World Bicycle Day also recognises the bicycle as a type of sustainable transport.  The day of observance “conveys a positive message to foster sustainable consumption and production that has a positive impact on climate”, and aligns with ChildFund Australia’s goal of ensuring environmental sustainability in the developing communities in which we work.

How can I support World Bicycle Day 2023?

You can help to make bicycles accessible to children living in developing communities this World Bicycle day by fundraising for ChildFund Australia, or donating Gifts for Good.

Let’s take a look at these options:

Donate a bike and helmet

Many children in developing communities may not be able to continue their education because of the long distances they have to walk to school, and the potential dangers that they face along the way. You can donate a bicycle and helmet to help students get to class safer, stay in school, and spend time studying not travelling!

Create a Facebook fundraiser

Did you know that you can fundraise on Facebook for ChildFund Australia? By setting up your own fundraiser, you can invite others to donate a bicycle and helmet. Help to support World Bicycle Day by creating your fundraiser now, and get your family and friends on board with this worthy cause.

Host a morning tea

You can take the time to discuss World Bicycle Day with your co-workers, by setting up a morning tea fundraiser in the office. A gold coin donation from staff members could be suggested, with the proceeds from this going to the purchase of bicycles and helmets for children in need.

Together we can empower children all over the world to access sustainable transport this World Bicycle Day, providing them with the means to attend and stay in school.