Tour de Fat cycling event history and impact

The Tour de Fat, an event originating in Fort Collins, Colorado, has grown from a small 1999 bike parade into a significant movement that has raised over $10 million for local cycling non-profits.

Founded by Jeff Lebsech, the event expanded nationally during the early-to-mid 2000s, reaching cities such as San Francisco, Chicago, Boston, and Washington D.C. The event reached its peak in 2017 with 33 different locations hosting ticketed events featuring musical performances. While many cities discontinued the parade format due to the high costs of hosting non-gated events, the parade tradition continues in Boise, Tempe, and Fort Collins.