I’ll just say it right off the bat: Memorial Day Weekend is the most exciting weekend of road racing in the Northeast. You can disagree, but it just means you haven’t experienced Easton & Somerville yet.

We probably don’t have to remind you that the Tour of Somerville is the country’s longest-running bike race. With a rich history dating back to 1940, the race attracts some of the world’s fastest cyclists to compete in Downtown Somerville, New Jersey. Renowned for its electric atmosphere, community engagement, and unparalleled level of competition, the Tour of Somerville race stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of cycling and the pursuit of greatness on two wheels.

Easton Twilight Criterium, 2022. Photos by Vishrut Garg, Long Tail Creative

As a thrilling prelude to this prestigious event, a newer event, the Easton Twilight Criterium, sets the stage for a spectacular weekend of high-speed racing, fierce competition, and unforgettable experiences. Taking place in Easton, Pennsylvania, a picturesque town with a historic, family-friendly downtown district, this 6 corner criterium captures the essence of the sport by igniting excitement among its local community. The criterium serves as the perfect appetizer, whetting the appetite of both athletes and fans for the main event in Somerville.

The Easton Twilight Criterium ignites the weekend of bike racing in NJ/PA with its exhilarating races, festive ambiance, and passionate community engagement. New this year, there is a Women’s 3/4/Novice race, where the 3s are scored separately. I will always sign up & line up for races that give opportunities for growth to amateur women/non-binary racers, and I hope other events take notes to help grow the sport. Events like the Easton Twilight Criterium and the Tour of Somerville highlight the beauty, excitement, and camaraderie that make this sport truly special. We hope we’ll see you there.