Fietsvierdaagse: How The USA Could Use It Too
Fietsvierdaagse is a unique event that brings together people of all ages and backgrounds to celebrate their love of cycling. The event is not a race, but rather a leisurely ride through the countryside, with participants stopping to enjoy the scenery, take breaks, and socialize with fellow cyclists. The event is open to anyone who can ride a bike, and there are routes available for all skill levels and ages. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, and the focus is on having fun and enjoying the experience, rather than on competition.
One of the reasons that Fietsvierdaagse has become so popular in the Netherlands is that it promotes cycling as a fun and accessible activity that can be enjoyed by anyone. It encourages people to get out and explore the countryside on two wheels, and it provides a sense of community and camaraderie that is hard to find in other types of events. Fietsvierdaagse also supports local businesses and tourism, as participants stop in small towns along the routes to eat, drink, and shop.
The USA could benefit from a similar event, as cycling is becoming increasingly popular in the country, and there is a growing interest in outdoor activities and eco-tourism. A four-day cycling event could be a great way to promote cycling as a fun and accessible activity, and to encourage people to explore the natural beauty of the country on two wheels. Such an event could also support local businesses and tourism, and help to promote eco-friendly transportation and healthy lifestyles.
Of course, organizing a four-day cycling event in the USA would present some challenges. The country is much larger than the Netherlands, and there are many different regions with different climates and landscapes. However, with careful planning and organization, it could be possible to create a similar event that would appeal to cyclists of all ages and backgrounds.
Fietsvierdaagse is a unique and beloved cycling event in the Netherlands that promotes cycling as a fun and accessible activity, and encourages people to explore the countryside on two wheels. The USA could benefit from a similar event, as it would promote cycling, support local businesses and tourism, and encourage healthy lifestyles and eco-friendly transportation.
Citations:
Fietsvierdaagse. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.fietsvierdaagse.nl/
Musterd, S., & Ostendorf, W. (2017). Cycling and the Dutch city: Policies, cultures and practices. Amsterdam University Press.
League of American Bicyclists. (2017). Benchmarking report: United States bicycling and walking statistics. Retrieved from https://www.bikeleague.org/sites/default/files/Benchmarking_Report_Final_0.pdf
National Park Service. (2020). National park visitor statistics. Retrieved from https://www.nps.gov/subjects/socialscience/vse.htm.