Tour De Lights Hits City Streets with More Than 700 Holiday Cyclists

The sixth annual Tour de Lights bike ride took to the streets on December 13 with more than 700 cyclists, many of them?and their bikes?decked out in holiday costumes. The event has become a tradition of Knoxville's Christmas in the City celebration and draws riders from all over the region.

The crowd gathered on Market Square at 6 p.m. for bike safety checks and judging for the costume contest. The ride started from the Square and toured Old North Knoxville and 4th & Gill neighborhoods, bringing holiday joy to participants and spectators along the five-mile route.

"The costumed riders and their festive bikes offered a movable light show to people along the route. It was great to see neighbors come out and wave and cheer from their porches, front yards, and street corners," said ride coordinator and transportation planner, Kelley Segars.

This year, the Tour de Lights offered a new "Mini-Tour" option for children (and adults!) who were not up to the full five-mile route. Whether they took in all the sights or opted for the shorter version, the riders came back together at Market Square to enjoy hot cocoa and treats provided by Mast General Store and Three Rivers Market as the costume and decoration awards were handed out.

The fierce competition necessitated the naming of runners up this year (and even the impromptu addition of a new category!):

And the winners are...

Best costume (adult): Jeff Groah
Runner up: Leon Christian

Best costume (child): Taylor Banhout
Runner up: Reece Evans

Best bicycle/trailer: Wes and Jessica
Runner up: David Mann

Best trailer with kids (new category!): Ella and Logan

Best helmet: Randy Darnbush
Runner up: Terry

Best group: Christmas TV classics
Runner up: Park/Hilton/Wampler group

Best all around: Keila Gillette (North Pole Postal Service)
Runner up: The Elf Goddesses/The Awesome Elves

Many thanks to the City of Knoxville, Knoxville Police Department, sponsors, and volunteers for making this year's ride the best yet. Photos of the event can be enjoyed at www.knoxtrans.org/tourdelights.

Posted 12-18-2012, written by Sarah Powell