After nearly a decade away, professional cycling returns to Philadelphia and to one of the most famous climbs in America. After debuting in 1985 and pausing in 2016, the Philadelphia Cycling Classic has been brought back to life by Race Street Partners. Manayunk Development Corporation applauds the relaunch and announces the Manayunk Family Watch Party – a giant family-friendly celebration to cheer on the elite bikers as they make the famous turn and head up the most iconic hill in American road racing. On Sunday, August 30, 2026, get ready to reignite a tradition that put Manayunk on the map and defined the neighborhood for generations. The all ages, all day celebration will take place at Main and Levering streets from 10:00am to 3:00pm. Look for activities for cyclists, families, friends, neighbors and curious onlookers. Festivities will include: Design Your Ride Shades, Bedazzle Your Bike Helmet, Tie-Dye Party, Towpath Scavenger Hunt, and special offers at Manayunk’s restaurants, bars, cafés and retailers. The watch party is open to the public, family and fido friendly, and there is no admission charge.
THE WALL, THE NEIGHBORHOOD AND THE LEGACY
Nestled along the scenic banks of the Schuylkill River, the Manayunk Canal and the Towpath, Main Street is lined with beautifully restored Victorian storefronts, historic mill buildings, unique boutiques and award-winning restaurants.
Since the very first race in 1985, Manayunk has been the heart of the action – drawing thousands of fans to one of the most iconic and challenging sections of the course. The famous bike race associated with Manayunk is the Philadelphia International Cycling Classic, but locals refer to it as simply the “Manayunk Bike Race.”
Whether you’re a lifelong cycling fan or simply looking for an unforgettable day out, you’ll experience the excitement of world-class racing paired with the warmth and charm of one of Philadelphia’s most vibrant neighborhoods.
When the Philadelphia International Championship debuted in 1985, few could have predicted the lasting impact it would have on Manayunk.
Created by race organizers David Chauner and Jerry Casale, the event was designed to bring a world-class one-day professional cycling race to the United States. It quickly became one of North America’s premier cycling competitions, attracting elite riders from around the globe.
At the heart of the race was the legendary Manayunk Wall, the steep climb on Levering Avenue with grades reaching approximately 17 percent. Every year, thousands of enthusiastic fans crowded the Wall, creating an electric atmosphere that became one of the most recognizable scenes in American cycling.
For Manayunk, however, the race was about much more than professional competition. It became one of the neighborhood’s most cherished traditions. Each year, Main Street came alive with live music, sidewalk celebrations, packed restaurants and bars, and thousands of visitors who filled the streets to cheer on the cyclists. The event showcased the neighborhood’s energy, hospitality, and unique character while providing a significant boost to local businesses.
For more than three decades, the race was one of Philadelphia’s signature annual sporting events, drawing spectators from across the region and around the world. It helped establish Manayunk as a premier cycling destination and left a lasting legacy that continues to shape the neighborhood’s identity. For many residents and business owners, the memories of race day—the roar of the crowds, the determination of the riders, and the festive spirit that filled Main Street—remain among Manayunk’s proudest traditions.
THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE MANAYUNK ON RACE DAY
After nearly a decade away, professional cycling returns to Philadelphia in 2026 with the debut of the Philadelphia Cycling Classic. The revived event once again sent riders up the iconic Manayunk Wall, rekindling the excitement and tradition that had made the race a beloved annual celebration for generations of residents, businesses, and cycling fans.
Today, the Manayunk Wall remains one of the most legendary climbs in American cycling. Its steep grades, passionate crowds, and unforgettable atmosphere have cemented its place in U.S. cycling history. More than just a challenging section of the racecourse, the Wall has become a symbol of Philadelphia’s rich cycling heritage and of the community spirit that has long defined Manayunk. As the race begins a new chapter, it also celebrates a legacy that continues to inspire riders and spectators alike.
It is highly encouraged to take public transportation to the event. With just a 15-minute train ride from Center City, attendees can take the Manayunk-Norristown Line to the Manayunk Station. Limited Parking is available at the Green Lane lot.
MANAYUNK FAMILY WATCH PARTY
Presented by Manayunk Development Corporation
Sunday, August 30, 2026
10:00am to 3:00pm
Some restaurants and businesses will open as early as 8:00am to 8:30am
Cheer on the riders while enjoying a full day of family-friendly activities, including:
* Watch the cyclists tackle the iconic Manayunk Wall
* Design Your Ride Shades
* Bedazzle your bike helmet
* Tie-Dye Party
* Towpath Scavenger Hunt
* Enjoy Manayunk’s incredible restaurants, cafés, and bars throughout the day
Merchant Activations:
* AFC Fitness – Table within Levering Lot; Sign up to get a 2 week trial, Spin the wheel or do a fitness challenge to get swag or up to 2 months of complimentary membership.
* City of Paws – Cool down pools available for dogs (outside store).
* GoalsFit – Kicking off the weekend with a Fun Friday Wall Edition Boot Camp! 5:45am Meeting at GoalsFit.* Love City Brewing – Open early at 8:30am with mimosas, bloodys and beers.
* Orbit Gallery – Full display of cycling prints including Charles Cushing’s iconic print The Wall (outside store).
* Sophie’s BBQ – Open early at 8:30amwith breakfast sandwiches including Brisket, Egg and Cheese and Pork, Egg and Cheese – with smoked bbq, scrambled eggs, melted cooper, and our bbq aioli all smashed on a soft roll and ready when the pack flies by.
* The Emporium by Lady Holiday – $50.00 Permanent Jewelry Special add any “Sport theme” Charm complementary.
* Thrillerdelphia – Complimentary crafts and beverages while supplies last (within store).
Look for other merchant specials, features and game day activities to be announced.
And remember: There’s no place quite like Manayunk on race day.
GETTING TO MANAYUNK ON RACE DAY
It is highly encouraged to take public transportation to the event. With just a 15-minute train ride from Center City, attendees can take the Manayunk-Norristown Line to the Manayunk Station. Limited Parking is available at the Green Lane lot.
ABOUT PHILADELPHIA CYCLING CLASSIC
philadelphiacyclingclassic dot com
ABOUT MANAYUNK FAMILY WATCH PARTY
manayunk dot com/the-philadelphia-cycling-classic-is-back/
ABOUT MANAYUNK DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
Manayunk Development Corporation (MDC) is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization dedicated to the management, promotion, and business development of the Main Street business district, as well as community planning and improvement projects that benefit both businesses and residents in Manayunk.