Photo by Charles

D.C.’s annual Bike to Work Day is happening Friday. At 83 pit stops this year, riders can cool down with refreshments and entertainment throughout the region. And cyclists who register (well, the first 1,500) can also get a free t-shirt at their designated site, plus enter a raffle to win prizes like, you guessed it, bikes.

Don’t have anyone to ride with? There’s a forum for that. You can also join one of 20 commuter convoys—group rides led by experienced cyclists. Worried about the rain? The National Weather Service predicts clear skies Friday morning. But just in case, read up on tips for riding while wet. Friday isn’t pay day? Unlike the $60 inaugural DC Bike Ride on Sunday, this journey is free.

Other concerns are addressed here.

The largest pit stop will take place at Freedom Plaza. The Downtown DC BID has invited guest speakers to gear up the crowd of cyclists beginning at 7 a.m. This site will also include bike vendors, and giveaways, and more.

The opening and closing times of all pit stops vary, and a few of them are having late afternoon/evening festivities.