Thousands of cyclists will hit the Penticton roads later this month as the Okanagan Granfondo returns to take athletes for a ride across the region.

The high-profile event is set for Sunday, July 14, and starts at 6:30 a.m. on Main Street near Lakeshore Drive.

Cyclists will travel through Summerland, Okanagan Falls, Oliver and Kaleden, before crossing the finish line back in Penticton.

鈥淲e look forward to welcoming the cyclists and their supporters to Penticton, who are travelling from near and far to take part in this spectacular ride throughout the South Okanagan,鈥� said Mayor Julius Bloomfield.

鈥淲e encourage all community members to show the visitors a warm welcome and to showcase to the world what a wonderful place it is here to live and play.鈥�

The annual race will bring "significant road closures," according to Penticton city officials, with disruptions set to take place along Main Street and Skaha Road from 5 a.m. to 5 p.m.

"Drivers are recommended to use Channel Parkway or Government Street wherever possible," the city said in a press release. "Avoid crossing Main Street if possible and be aware that some streets, including Lee Avenue, will be closed for overnight parking starting Saturday at midnight." 

In March 2023, the City of Penticton and Okanagan Granfondo officials agreed to the terms on a $500,000 deal that would keep the race local for the next five years.

The event will be preceded by the "Kids鈥� Piccolofondo" race on Saturday, July 13. Community members are invited to sign up their kids -- aged two to 10 years old -- for the free bike race that will see participants ride along Lakeshore Drive.