2024 Sanford's Ride to Freedom: Honoring Florida's Emancipation Day Celebration

Sanford, FL – October 24, 2023 – Bicikleta Bike Shop in Historic Downtown Sanford is gearing up to host an unforgettable event in honor of Florida's Emancipation Day Celebration. "Sanford's Ride to Freedom," set for May 18, 2024, will commemorate this important historical date and enrich the community about Sanford's remarkable black historic buildings and communities. This unique event, organized to foster awareness and unity, will allow cyclists to journey through Central Florida's rich history.

On January 1, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, which declared the freedom of enslaved people in the Southern states. However, it was not until May 20, 1865, that the state of Florida was finally freed, and the Emancipation Proclamation became fully effective. Sanford's Ride to Freedom celebrates this occasion in Florida's history and its lasting impact on the community. 

Ride Goal: Educate, Celebrate, and Unite
Sanford's Ride to Freedom aims to educate and celebrate the history of Sanford while fostering unity among its diverse communities. This event will allow cyclists to explore remarkable black historic buildings and communities in the celebration of Florida's Emancipation Day. The ride aims to enrich the community by showcasing Sanford's cultural heritage and inspiring a sense of togetherness.

The event offers multiple route options, including 10-mile, 25-mile, 40-mile, and 50-mile routes, allowing participants to choose their preferred level of challenge and enjoyment. Each course will take riders through black communities and historic buildings shaping Central Florida. 

Some of the highlights along the routes include:
• Hopper Academy: A historic African-American School built in 1906 in the Historic Georgetown Community, established by early black pioneers in 1870.
• Sanford Riverwalk: This multi-use pedestrian trail and destination along the shores of Lake Monroe. 
• Goldsboro: The 2nd African American incorporated city in the United States, founded in 1891.
• Croom's Academy: Seminole County's first high school for African-American students, founded in 1926.
• Historic Winwood Rosenwald School: Located in Winwood, a historic African-American community.
• Eatonville: The 1st African-American incorporated city in the United States, founded in 1887.
• Historical Significance of Florida's Emancipation Day

Charity Goal: Get Sanford Cycling
In addition to commemorating Emancipation Day, Sanford's Ride to Freedom will serve as a fundraiser for Get Sanford Cycling. This program aims to inspire and empower children in the community to lead healthy, active, and goal-driven lives through cycling. The charitable program will offer opportunities for children in our community to participate in the following.

• Fun Community Rides: Enjoy guided rides that explore Sanford's rich history.
• Complimentary Bike Maintenance & Service: Ensuring all participants have a safe and enjoyable ride.
• Workshops: Learn about riding techniques, safety, etiquette, bike maintenance, and more. 

Sponsorship Information

Link here for more sponsorship opportunities: 2024 Sanford's Ride to Freedom Sponsorship Packages.

About Sanford's Ride to Freedom
Sanford's Ride to Freedom is an annual event honoring Florida's Emancipation Day Celebration while promoting community enrichment, unity, and healthy living through cycling. The event offers a unique opportunity for individuals of all ages to explore Sanford's historical landmarks and enjoy a day of fun, education, and celebration.

About Get Sanford Cycling:
Get Sanford Cycling is a charitable program utilized to inspire and empower children in our community to lead healthy, active, and goal driven lives through cycling. Through opportunities such as:
• Fun community rides
• Complimentary bike maintenance & service
• Workshops for riding, safety & etiquette, maintenance & more

About Bicikleta Bike Shop:
Bicikleta Bike Shop is committed to creating and serving cyclists in our community, offering an inclusive environment for cyclists of all walks of life. With passion, expertise, and professionalism, Bicikleta Bike Shop is where hospitality and local bike shop meet! Located in Historic Downtown Sanford, Bicikleta is a female owned and operated bike shop.