The Vermont Mountain Bike Association (VMBA) received a $3,000 event grant from the Mad River Valley Chamber of Commerce. Pictured here are, top left: Tom Stuessy, Merideth McFarland, Jacob Grossi, Luke Iannuzzi and Matt Klein. Seated: Adam Longworth and Tony Amenta.

Mad River Riders is hosting the Vermont Mountain Bike Festival at Mt. Ellen July 22 through 24. The event will feature some of the best riding in The Valley as well as showcasing multiple local businesses. The Vermont Mountain Bike Association (VMBA) received a $3,000 event sponsorship grant from the Mad River Chamber of Commerce. The event was hosted in Ascutney for the past three years and brings riders from seven states and Canada.

Families and people new to the sport are encouraged to come and enjoy free bike demos, guided rides, live music, women’s rides, beginner rides and 40-plus vendors – all included with registration.

“It’s a great event for anyone that has ever considered mountain biking and advanced riders alike – The Valley is loaded with fantastic riding,” says Tom Stuessy, VMBA’s executive director. For those ready to try Sugarbush’s downhill riding opportunities, the registration comes with a free downhill pass on Sunday.

“The festival is a great opportunity to bring riders from across the region together for a few days to celebrate the riding in Vermont and is sure to put Waitsfield on the list of hundreds of riders that are eager to return to Vermont for their next biking trip,” Stuessy added.

On-site camping is available and Sugarbush has discounted other lodging options.

The event is sponsored by Sugarbush Resort, Darn Tough of Vermont, Mad River Valley Chamber of Commerce and Vermont Mountain Bike Association.

To register or become a sponsor go to www.vmba.org.