The 15th Annual NYC Unicycle Festival takes place on Labor Day Weekend 2024!
Free for everyone the New York City Unicycle Festival brings together recreational riders, world-class performers, mountain and off-road unicycle enthusiasts, mono-wheel vehicle inventors, and thousands of people who have not ridden in umpteen years, along with circus enthusiasts, extreme sports viewers, and anyone seeking an unusual sight–even for NYC!
All ages and abilities are welcome.
Unifest, officially known as the NYC Unicycle Festival, is a vibrant, multi-day celebration of unicycling held annually in New York City over Labor Day Weekend when motorists leave town and make room for a one-wheeled wonder!
Drawing enthusiasts from around the globe, Unifest offers a wide array of events and activities that cater to unicyclists of all skill levels, promoting the sport and ensuring a fun, engaging experience for all participants.
Organized by the Bindlestiff Family Cirkus – a cherished New York City arts and cultural institution since 1995 – this festival thrives thanks to the generous support of sponsors and the dedication of volunteers. UniFest has grown into a beloved city event, celebrating the art and sport of unicycling while fostering a diverse community of riders and enthusiasts.
Key features of UniFest include:
Long-Distance Rides: The festival kicks off with two long-distance rides showcasing the endurance and skill of unicyclists and offer a unique adn memorable way to safely tour New York City.
Events at Pier 76 Hudson River Park: Celebrating our 15th year, a significant portion of the festival takes place at Pier 76, a rapidly growing destination next to the iconic Hudson River Park. Participants and spectators can enjoy races, workshops, exhibitions, and games like unicycle basketball and hockey. There are also opportunities for newcomers to learn how to ride.
Performances and Demonstrations: Skilled unicyclists, including professional performers, demonstrate their talents through a variety of tricks and routines. These performances are a highlight for spectators and fellow riders alike!
Community and Learning: The festival foster a sense of community among unicyclists and provides numerous opportunities for learning and improvement. Workshops and clinics are available for those looking to enhance their skills or try unicycling for the first time.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere: UniFest is designed to be inclusive and family-friendly, with activities and entertainment suitable for all ages and abilities, encouraging people of all backgrounds to participate and enjoy the unique sport of unicycling.
Join the Fun and Make a Difference: Become a Sponsor or Volunteer!
We’re seeking bike support volunteers, sponsors, and more to join us in making this event a success. Your participation and support can help create an unforgettable experience for all involved. Join us and be part of the excitement!
Become a sponsor
Contact festival director Keith Nelson to see how you can help.
cirkus@bindlestiff.org
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15th Annual NYC Unicycle Festival
Thursday, August 29th: 10:30 am to 3 pm (approx)
Battery Park to Central Park
• Long Distance Ride (Approximately 10 miles) •
We’ll start in Battery Park City and ride along the Hudson River greenway with a nice breeze though our hair as we make our way to the loop of Central Park. We’ll see many of the park’s famous attractions. Then we’ll ride down Broadway to 42nd St (Times Square) where you can have New York’s famous roasted peanuts and snap an iconic one-wheeled photo at the center of the universe!
Route Map: Manhattan Map
Meeting/Start: Pier A, Battery Park City. In front of Pier A Harbor House.
End: Times Square.
Friday, August 30th: 2 pm to 6 pm (approx)
Brooklyn Bridge to Coney Island
• Long Distance Ride (Approximately 13 miles) •
Join in the tradition as we pedal through Brooklyn! Starting on the Manhattan side of the Brooklyn Bridge, we will travel over the iconic landmark and unicycle through Downtown Brooklyn to Prospect Park where we’ll stop and rest our wheels. Then we’ll cross the highway and glide down Ocean Parkway to Coney Island where we hope to be treated to a ride on the Wonder Wheel.
Route Map: Brooklyn Map
Meeting/Start/End: Outside New York City Hall (across the street from the Manhattan entrance to The Brooklyn Bridge).
End: Coney Island
Saturday, August 31st & Sunday, September 1st: Noon to 5 pm
Pier 76 – Manhattan
One Wheel activities including Learn-to-Ride, Unicycle Basketball, and more
Saturday and Sunday’s festivities are taking place at none other than Pier 76 at Hudson River Park! Activities will include a Learn-to-ride area, a demonstration by King Charles Troupe, games, and relays. Get ready to MUNI!
Location: Pier 76, Manhattan
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Please bring a refillable water bottle and snacks.
We want everyone to be safe! Helmets are strongly suggested.
Participation is at your own risk.
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