Annual Loop the Lake Festival set for June 18 in Bemidji

BEMIDJI — The 8th Annual Loop the Lake Festival will return to Bemidji on June 18.

After being canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic in 2020, and moving to a virtual format in 2021, the popular annual event will be back in full force this summer.

Hosted by Bike Bemidji, riders participating in the event will bike the scenic 17-mile route around Lake Bemidji, beginning and ending at the Sanford Center.

Participants can take photos with Bemidji’s iconic Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox statues, enjoy expansive lake views at Ruttger’s Birchmont Lodge, and ride through the beautiful white pines in Lake Bemidji State Park, a release said.

Rest stops along the route will feature food and beverages from local sponsors, various photo opportunities and live local musicians, which are included in the registration fee.

The festival uses a rolling start between 7:30 to 10 a.m., so riders can begin at their convenience.

Registration is open now and early-bird pricing will be available through the month of May. T-shirts are an optional add-on this year and can be ordered until June 1. Walk-up registrations will be taken the day before and the morning of the event.

“Bike Bemidji was created to promote outdoor physical activity, health and clean air,” a release said. “Our goal is to encourage a bicycle-centered culture, showcase our community to visitors, provide a festive atmosphere that is family friendly and contribute to the local economy.”

For more details about the route and registration, visit the Bike Bemidji website, www.bikebemidji.com. Those interested in volunteering can email info@bikebemidji.com.