Freedom for Bicycles in Šiauliai

The traditional public campaign Freedom for Bicycle was organized in Šiauliai in September. Over 800 cyclists enthusiastically joined the campaign and overspread in the city streets according to the designed route in advance. This year the campaign has become an international one as the latvian city of Jelgava, partner of Šiauliai, keenly joined to the activities. The city youth and elderly willingly supported the campaign. The age of the cyclists has ranged from 1 to 79.

This event aimed to promote the tolerance towards cyclists, environmentally friendly life style, as well to demonstrate the need of the cycling paths within the city. The citizens want Šiauliai to be recognized as a bicycle's city.

The awarding ceremony for the photo and drawings on the asphalt competitions was extremely exciting. The public campaign ended with a lottery of 15 elegant and smart bicycles. One extraordinary prize went to the largest team of cyclists - 80 teachers and schoolchildren from the Salduve school.

The engagement of young citizens and families in the public campaign has demonstrated the importance of education and a public spirit that changes the attitude towards the use of transport means.