From April 18-21 2024, Monterey is home to the world’s premier cycling festival, the Life Time Sea Otter Classic presented by Continental at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. A four-day immersive experience including racing, riding, food, family activities and an expansive expo, Sea Otter Classic is the spot for riders to celebrate Spring and kick off their riding season.

But why should you attend if you’re not a biker? Here’s five reasons:

This is an image of a teen boy riding on a bicycle with a helmet on the dirt hills at Sea Otter Classic cycling event in Monterey, California. THere are masses of people gathered in the background at various expo tents

1. It’s A Family Affair: Kids are always the VIPs at Sea Otter Classic, with FREE entry for those 12-and-under and kid-friendly races. Plus, Sunday is Family Day when kids get to bring along two adults for FREE.

2. The Racing Will Keep You On The Edge Of Your (Bicycle) Seat: World class athletes descend on Sea Otter Classic every year (although there’s a fair bit of climbing too). Having a front-row seat to what these amazing riders can do is inspiring and jaw-dropping. Whether it’s cross-country racing or gravity-assisted events, the action is non-stop.

Sea Otter Classic cycling event start line

3. Swag At Every Turn: With over 1000 vendors, not only is Sea Otter Classic the unofficial trade show for the cycling industry, it is also ground zero for swag. From coffee to nutrition samples to the latest trinket or sticker to show your love of cycling, there’s a good chance you won’t go home with empty pockets.

4. The Food Is Front And Center: With four food courts to choose from and curated meals from renowned Chef Biju Thomas (co-author of the FeedZone cookbooks), there’s plenty of reasons to work up an appetite.

5. Take A Bike For A Spin On One Of The Most Famous Raceways In The World: If you’re just making your way in the world of cycling and are curious about what’s trending in bikes (or e-bikes) these days, numerous demos are available. Getting to ride The Corkscrew on the Laguna Seca track is a once-in-a-lifetime experience not to be missed.

Ultimately, you don’t have to be a biker to have a great time at the Sea Otter Classic. The only prerequisites are a love of the outdoors and a need to celebrate Spring. Join us!