Despite the near freezing temperatures, more than 30 bicyclists showed up for a Midnight Mystery Ride to celebrate Friday the 13th. Starting at the Tattooed Moose, the ride introduction included announcements about the James Island Connector closing to cyclists as well as a safety talk encouraging everyone to obey traffic laws, respect car traffic, and keep a relaxed pace.
Riders were led on a ride around the peninsula, stopping at different locations to learn about bike-related events in the area. Two of the stops included Hampton Park, which closes its loop to car traffic Saturdays (from 8 a.m. to noon) and Tuesdays and Thursdays (6-8 p.m.), and Marion Square, the new location for the Holy City Bike Co-op mobile bike workshops during Second Sunday.
As the group weaved through neighborhoods and parks, pedestrians and cars responded with encouragement and curiosity as the two-wheeled herd respected stop lights and moved over for cars.
After several miles in the cold weather, the bicyclists were rewarded with the warm interior of the Butcher and the Bee for their final stop, where food and drinks awaited them. There is talk of more rides as the weather warms up, including a Mid-day Mystery Ride.
Stay cool. Support City Paper.
City Paper has been bringing the best news, food, arts, music and event coverage to the Holy City since 1997. Support our continued efforts to highlight the best of Charleston with a one-time donation or become a member of the City Paper Club.