Biking to movies: It’s how we roll

If that blissful biking holiday on the French Riviera you’re daydreaming of just isn’t in the budget this summer, how about pedaling over to a Francophile-friendly film party instead?

Charlottesville Community Bikes aims to capture that carefree spirit when it continues its Bike-In Movie series this evening. Head to the group’s warehouse headquarters off Main Street, just past Hampton Inn, to see “The Triplets of Belleville.”

Imagine the all-American appeal of a drive-in movie, combined with an animated French film about a cycling grandmother and her trusty dog who hit the road to rescue a young grandson who disappears during the Tour de France, and you’ve got the picture.

Amanda Wibberley, one of the event’s organizers, said it’s a chance to make new friends who like to spend time in the saddle.

“It’s more of a social thing, to get to know other folks who ride bikes in your community,” she said. “I guess it’s really about building community.”

The fun starts with music by a DJ at 7 this evening. At 8 p.m., it’s time to break away for a bicycle fashion show.

The screening of the animated 2003 Sylvain Chomet feature, which picked up a pair of Academy Award nominations, starts at sunset, and it’ll be projected outdoors onto the warehouse’s painted wall.

Wibberley said there will be seats and benches for comfort, but it’s fine to bring a blanket or lawn chair if you’d like.

Tonight’s event also offers an opportunity to learn more about the non-profit bicycle shop and its efforts to make sure that anybody who’d like to ride a bike can get behind the handlebars.

The volunteer-powered group stays busy fixing and recycling bikes. If you’ve in the market for a volunteer opportunity, especially if you have a knack for fixing things, you can learn how to pitch in. Donations of bicycles, bike parts, repair tools and cash to buy bike chains, tires and tubes are welcome.

And if you’re still picturing yourself pedaling through France, just tuck a crusty baguette in your bike basket before you head out tonight, and don’t don the beret until you’re safely there and your helmet is off. Cheerful accordion music not included.

Details

Bike-In Movie

with “The Triplets of Belleville”

7 tonight; film shown at sunset

Charlottesville Community Bikes on Ninth Street, off West Main Street

Free

http://www.cvillecommunitybikes.org

960-0195