On Saturday, May 31, 2025, Community Education in the city of Hastings once again hosted its popular Community Bike Rodeo in the parking lot south of Hastings Middle School. The free event, held from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m., brought families, local organizations, and safety advocates together for a morning focused on bike safety, education, and community fun.
Organized by Hastings Community Education in collaboration with the Hastings Police Department, Children's Minnesota, and Minnesota Safe Routes to School, the rodeo offered young riders a chance to sharpen their biking skills in a supportive and engaging environment. While the event is a returning tradition in Hastings, each year brings new faces and fresh energy to the cause of promoting safe biking habits.
Participants, ranging from preschoolers to teens, arrived with bikes, scooters, and helmets in hand. They navigated safety courses marked with traffic cones, practiced hand signals, and received helmet fittings and basic bike adjustments from on-site volunteers. The emphasis was on building confidence and awareness while making safety fun.
Adding to the festive atmosphere were treats like mini donuts and small prize giveaways that helped keep the excitement going between activities. Families had the opportunity to chat with local police officers and safety experts, who provided tips on riding safely and following traffic laws.
Children's Minnesota shared injury prevention resources, and Minnesota Safe Routes to School offered information on how families can support safer biking and walking routes for students throughout the city.
The Bike Rodeo continues to be a valued tradition in Hastings, emphasizing the importance of active transportation and community togetherness. With a strong turnout and positive feedback, organizers are already looking ahead to next year’s event with hopes of growing participation even more.
Sponsors and Participating Organizations: Hastings Community Education, Hastings Police Department, Children's Minnesota, Minnesota Safe Routes to School.
Residents interested in future events or safety programs can connect through Hastings Community Education.