Pelotonia in the Arena District: 4 Things to Know

August 1, 2017

Almost 8,000 riders will take to the road this weekend, and many of them will be wearing a recognizable bright green color. That must mean it’s Pelotonia weekend! Founded in 2008, Pelotonia was established with the objective to fund life-saving cancer research. The  three-day experience includes a weekend of cycling, entertainment and volunteerism. Through its first eight rides, Pelotonia raised more than $130 million for cancer research.
Whether you are a rider or showing your support as a spectator, here are 4 things you need to know!
1.  Rider Check-In and Opening Ceremony in the Arena District
An Opening Ceremony will be held on Friday, August 4 at McFerson Commons and North Bank Park from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. This is also when most of the riders will be checking in their gear, browsing vendor booths, and enjoying a dinner buffet. The Opening Ceremony program begins at 7:00 p.m.
The area surrounding McFerson Commons and North Bank Park will have temporary expo tents, seating, vendors, and a corral for riders’ bikes. This was previously held at the Columbus Commons and moved to the Arena District this year.
2.  Schedule of Events & Street Closures
Whether you live or work in the Arena District, plan ahead for a few street closures in the area beginning Friday, August 4 at 9:00 a.m., including Long St. and Spring St. They will reopen Saturday, August 5 at 1:00 p.m. Arena District parking garages remain open and accessible throughout the weekend events.
Note: Neil Ave. (north of Spring St.) and Nationwide Blvd. will remain open throughout the weekend events.
For access in and out of the Arena District, we recommend using Neil Ave. to Nationwide Blvd. or Front St. 
Friday, August 4: Rider Check-In & Opening Ceremony Program
McFerson Commons and North Bank Park
3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Saturday, August 5: Ride Start
McFerson Commons and North Bank Park
5:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.
3.  Parking
If you are coming down to watch the riders depart or to drop off a rider of your, own feel free to park in the Arena District and stick around for breakfast and coffee. Sunny Street Cafe has a delicious breakfast/brunch menu and is located right next to McFerson Commons. And you can always pre-pay for parking by clicking here!
4.  It is a Ride, Not a Race
100% of every dollar raised for Pelotonia benefits cancer research. The entire event is centered around one goal: to end cancer. Therefore, individuals and teams participating virtually or physically riding are not competing in a race and there is no “winner” of Pelotonia.
We are proud to have Pelotonia in the Arena District and want to wish riders and spectators a positive experience! More information about the ride courses and ways to participate can be found at Pelotonia.org.