‘Bikes and Beats’ to bring a celebration of bikes and youth to Toronto’s east end

A celebration of all things two-wheeled is coming to Toronto on Oct. 27, when Bikes & Beats—billed as a “fabulously fun and spirited celebration of bicycles”—kicks off at Paintbox Catering & Bistro in the city’s east end.

The event is hosted by Charlie’s FreeWheels, a non-profit bike advocacy organization with a mission to “inspire a spirit of exploration” in youth.

Located in Moss Park, the organization helps neighbourhood kids gain the experience needed to build bikes, learn skills and gain the confidence needed to explore the city in the saddle, and it has long-lasting benefits for Toronto kids. Beyond the mobility and understanding of safe cycling, the charity’s retail operations also foster the development of employable skills in youth, preparing them to work as bike mechanics.

The event on Oct. 27—an “evening of jazz and bikes,” organizers say—is all about spreading the word about the organization and strengthening its network.

Curated by Tony Quarrington, a legendary local fixture of Toronto’s jazz scene, the evening’s entertainment will feature music, performances and spoken word poetry centered around the significant role of bikes in Canadian cities—particularly the effect they have in building a sense of social equity. Performers will include Quarrington, Zoey Adams, Evalyn Parry, Soozi Schlanger and Laura Fernandez, with proceeds going directly towards Charlie FreeWheels’ bicycle education programming. Tickets are $100, with tax receipts being made available for half the cost of admission.

In terms of dress? “Bicycle chic” is strongly recommended.

Further information is available by contacting Katherine McIlveen-Brown at Charlie’s FreeWheels.