Fancy Women’s Ride returns for 2026

Approximately 100 people gathered for the Fancy Women’s Ride in Canberra on Sunday, arriving in flowers, glitter and fabulous outfits to celebrate independence, visibility and the joy of riding bikes together. People of all ages and genders rode in solidarity, creating a colourful and joyful presence on the streets while celebrating women’s freedom to ride. 

The Fancy Women’s Ride began in Türkiye and has grown into a global movement encouraging women to claim public space, challenge expectations about who belongs on a bike, and call for safer cycling infrastructure that makes riding accessible for everyone. 

The afternoon began with opening remarks from Pedal Power Executive Director Cecily Michaels, who welcomed participants and spoke about the importance of creating spaces where women feel visible, supported and encouraged to ride. She thanked everyone for coming along and for helping build a welcoming cycling community in Canberra. 

Cecily was followed by Marisa Paterson MLA, who shared a little about her own cycling journey. She spoke about how getting an e-bike had transformed her daily commute and how she had never imagined it would be possible to ride from Weston Creek to the city. She also encouraged attendees to nominate inspiring women for the ACT Women’s Awards, which are currently open. 

One of the highlights of the afternoon was the costume and decoration judging. The judges had the difficult job of selecting winners across a range of categories, including Overall Fanciest Dressed, Most Outlandish, Most Elegant or Classic Style, Best Decorated Bike (1st, 2nd and 3rd), Best Decorated Helmet, Fanciest Young Rider and Fanciest Person in Solidarity. 

This year’s judges were Jo Clay MLA, Laura Nuttall MLA and Marisa Paterson MLA, who carefully inspected the incredible creativity on display. From beautifully flower-covered bikes to wonderfully extravagant outfits, there was no shortage of spectacular entries.

Before the ride set off, participants were treated to a performance by Discobedience. Many people joined in dancing, adding to the festive atmosphere and building excitement for the ride ahead. 

Then it was time to roll out. 

Leading the procession through Canberra was an unforgettable sight: a giant cockatoo riding proudly at the front of the group. A huge thank you to Lil for bringing the cockatoo to life and setting the tone for the day. 

With decorated bikes, colourful outfits, music and plenty of laughter, the group formed a cheerful procession through the city. Passersby stopped to watch, wave, and take photos as the riders rolled through the streets, spreading smiles and a clear message that cycling can be joyful, visible, and inclusive. 

Events like this are only possible thanks to the many volunteers who help bring them to life. A huge thank you goes to the working group who planned the event, designed and created the stunning badges, the ride marshals who helped keep everyone safe on the road, and the many people who helped promote the ride and spread the word. 

The ride also caught the attention of local media, with ABC Canberra News featuring the event in their Sunday, 8 March broadcast. If you would like to catch a glimpse of the ride and its fantastic atmosphere, you can watch the segment on ABC iView, where the Fancy Women’s Ride appears around the 21:45 mark. or below.

Thank you to everyone who rode with us and helped make the 2026 Fancy Women’s Ride such a joyful and welcoming celebration of cycling in Canberra. We are already looking forward to riding together again next year.