HARRISONBURG, VA (City of Harrisonburg) – National Walk & Roll to School Day is Wednesday, October 8th. Harrisonburg Public Works has called it Bike, Walk & Roll to School Day – to highlight all the ways students can actively travel to school while promoting healthier lifestyles and safer streets in addition to reducing traffic congestion and emphasizing environmental stewardship.

The event is part of Harrisonburg’s ongoing Safe Routes to School Program, which encourages students and families to discover walking, biking and rolling as a community. Activities will vary by school on the day, but all will emphasize safety, fun and building connections.

Each participating elementary school will share preidentified routes, meeting points and instructions for families. Students can join walking school buses or bike buses, where groups travel together with the support of adult volunteers who lead and supervise along the way. Middle and high school students also are encouraged to walk, bike or roll with friends, though there will not be staff-led routes for those schools.

“Bike, Walk & Roll to School Day is a delightful opportunity for our community – it’s not just about the fun of biking or walking; it’s an educational experience that fosters lifelong skills in our students,” Harrisonburg Public Works Safe Routes to School Coordinator Andrea Troyer said. “The excitement we generate on this day underlines the importance of active transportation and sparks a commitment to safety and health in Harrisonburg.”

City staff, including members of the Harrisonburg Police and Fire Departments, will be at multiple events throughout the day.

Find more information about Bike, Walk & Roll to School Day in Harrisonburg at Bike, Walk & Roll to School Day | City of Harrisonburg, VA.

The local event, and Harrisonburg’s Safe Routes to School Program, are parts of the City’s efforts to improve bicycle and pedestrian safety per the 2025-2028 Action Plan. The Action Plan calls for the distinctive, reliable delivery of high-quality City services, with one priority aimed at updating the City’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan. Learn more at City Council Vision | City of Harrisonburg, VA.