Over 700 cyclists are expected at the 12th annual Bikes, Bands and the Bay Festival, scheduled for May 13-15 throughout Mathews County.

The event, formerly known as the Tour de Chesapeake, will include a new route this year, bringing the total number of miles cyclists can ride in the event to over 100. The weekend will also include a number of activities involving the entire community.

Registration for the main event begins at 4 p.m. on Friday, May 13, at Thomas Hunter Middle School. Registration will also be available online through Sunday by visiting www.bikechesapeake.org.

That evening, there will also be a bike safety rodeo, held for the second time, especially for children. The rodeo will be located at the Boys and Girls Club, is free with participants who complete the course receiving free helmets.

The rodeo is sponsored by the Mathews County Sheriff’s Office, the Mathews Family YMCA and the Boys and Girls Club of Mathews. Advanced registration is encouraged by Ma...