The Delaware Freedom Ride Returning in 2026!
Join Urban Bike Project and Delaware Greenways for a 15-mile bicycle ride as we retrace the path of the Underground Railroad through New Castle County along a portion of the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway.
At 9:45 the ride will begin and follow the Jack Markell Trail to Wilmington, stopping along the way to hear stories of key individuals in the historic fight for Black liberation in Delaware. These stories are shared through a virtual Story Map that is available on Delaware Greenways’ website.
This year’s ride coincides with Wilmington’s Juneteenth celebrations and Historic New Castle’s 250th Separation Day festivities, creating a unique opportunity to experience multiple chapters of American history in a single day. From the struggle for freedom and abolition to Delaware’s path to independence, the trail connects riders to the people, places, and stories that shaped our nation. Learn more: Delaware Juneteenth Festival and Separation Day Festival
An optional group return trip to New Castle leaves after a 15 minute rest at the Tubman Garrett Riverfront Park. Those who wish to attend the Juneteenth Festival in Wilmington should plan to complete the return trip independently.
This ride is free and open to all ages. Helmets are required for all riders (if you do not have a helmet and would like to participate in the ride, please let us know so we can arrange a loaner for you). The route follows a paved multi-use path, with short stretches on low traffic roads. Families are welcome to join, but please no training wheels or strider bikes. Young people who are not comfortable riding on their own or who cannot maintain a consistent pace should be attached to a parent or guardian (via child trailer, tag-along bike, or child seat). All youth riders should be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Parking Information
Due to Separation Day activities, vehicular access to downtown Historic New Castle will be limited. Please allow a little extra time to get from your parking spot to the gathering point in front of the courthouse, and plan on finding street parking on surrounding streets or utilize the suggested lots in the Separation Day event map. View Parking Map
Delaware Freedom Ride:
A Juneteenth Celebration
Delaware Freedom Ride - 2024
Here’s a sample of photos from this year. Others can be viewed in the Delaware Freedom Ride Photo Album.
Juneteenth Introduction
Did you know the oldest Delaware Juneteenth celebration was begun in 1994 by Bernie Wilson, the founder of the Delaware Juneteenth Association? Watch this video to learn more. Additional information about Delaware’s pivotal role in the history of the Underground Railroad, can be found by on the Harriet Tubman Byway website and by viewing the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Story Map.
