This past Saturday, the Distillery District was jammed packed as MEC Bikefest shared the venue with the Toronto Jazz Festival, and multiple wedding parties looking for a scenic backdrop. Though there were vendors selling products and promoting events targeted at the cycling community, the real draw of MEC Bikefest were the clinics and workshops.

Tents set up along the parking lot were the setting for free basic repairs and tune ups from local bicycling organizations. The majority, if not all, of the technicians were volunteers, and the aim was to empower the average cyclist by guiding them through the process. The DIY drive continued with $5 clinics that taught an attentive crowd the basics of bicycle repair and maintenance.

The Distillery proved a convenient launch pad for group rides to nearby scenic draws such as Cherry Beach, the Don Valley Trail and the Leslie Spit. And for those just passing through on longer rides, Cycle Toronto provided peace of mind with bike valet parking.

PHOTOS

Writing by Denise Ing. For more photos of the event, check out her Flickr stream.