Guess who I met on the subway this morning: Santa!
I followed him out at Finch West, and he started heading east along the Finch Hydro corridor. These roadies were delighted to see him.
In actuality, this was a ride organized by the Toronto Community Bikeways Coalition, and so Santa’s helpers gathered at Hendon Park in preparation for a long ride down Yonge St to the lake.
In particular we wanted to draw attention to the forthcoming vote at City Council for Reimagining Yonge as well as promises made in City Council for bike lanes along sections of Yonge St. The ideal would be to have bike lanes down the entire length of Yonge St between Steeles Ave and the lakefront.
Here we go. Here are some of Santa’s helpers.
Rudolph is leading the way.
Line 1 was closed between St. Clair and Finch, so shuttle buses were running. However, they gave us a wide berth. Here we are approaching the 401 crossing. Thanks TTC!
Santa realizes that his reindeer aren’t actually helping him up the hill at Hogg’s Hollow.
The Biking Vet claims that this is his only suit.
Greg from the Bike Brigade, as well as Mark and Michael from Ward14 bikes were helping with marshalling on the ride.
Lots of people waving and calling out to Santa. Also, drivers were quite respectful as no one wants to hit Santa just before Christmas.
A bit of a break just south of the belt line, where we have picked up a few more reindeer.
Onwards south of Bloor
We have reached the lakefront.
A short cruise along the Martin Goodman Trail.
Reindeer have been known to ride folding bikes.
A group picture at the end.
Thanks to Janet Joy for organizing, Albert for being our Santa, and all those who rode along and helped.
Happy Holidays to all.
and a much shorter, snappy video from the fun duo at Bromptoning.
and another from Dave of CycleChicTO
Update Dec 17: I guess City Council listens to Santa after all:
We know which councillors are going to get a lump of Koehl in their stockings.
Globe and Mail: “Toronto moves ahead with plan to open up a stretch of uptown Yonge Street“
Toronto Star: “Bike lanes approved for Yonge Street in rebuild of North York Centre“
Biking in a Big City 
Ha! Yes, reindeer have been known to ride folding bikes! Thanks again for documenting the event with such wonderful pictures. 🙂