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After multiple delays and setbacks caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the 19th annual Cycle North Carolina Coastal Ride is set to take place this weekend. The event will be headquartered in downtown Washington, and the various bike rides available to participants will span throughout the county.

The three-day event will run from Friday, Nov. 5 through Sunday, Nov. 7.

Those who register for the event can participate in a variety of rides ranging from five to 100 miles.

“The flat roads and minimal traffic counts will allow you to fully experience all of the sights and sounds of the Washington area including an abundance of coastal wildlife and many historic sites that are deeply rooted to the local communities,” a description on the event’s website reads.

There’s also a description of the routes offered: “Routes will traverse through Bath, North Carolina’s oldest town, Belhaven, Pantego and Pinetown before heading back to the campsite.  On Saturday, the routes will head southwest into Pitt County and through towns like Chocowinity, Grifton, Ayden and Grimesland.  Saturday has many points of interest including Yoder’s Dutch Pantry, Simply Natural Creamery, Bum’s Restaurant and The Grimes Plantation.  Conclude the weekend on Sunday, with routes that head to the Northwest of town and out into the beautiful countryside.”

Mac Hodges Festival Park will be packed this weekend with riders camping out in between their rides.

This is Washington’s sixth time hosting the Coastal Ride. Next year Edenton will host the event. City leaders said the Coastal Ride always provides a boost to the local economy, especially to the hospitality and recreation industries.