Forget the Eiffel Tower – the real Paris experience is happening right here in Northeast Texas, and it’s got everything to do with two wheels and wide-open roads. The 41st Annual Tour de Paris is gearing up to welcome over 1,700 cyclists and volunteers for what’s become the region’s most beloved cycling tradition.
Since 1984, this grassroots event has grown from a handful of enthusiastic cyclists into a community celebration that brings riders from across Texas and beyond. And trust me, once you experience the rolling hills and scenic backroads of Lamar County, you’ll understand why people keep coming back year after year.
Choose Your Adventure: Routes for Every Rider
Here’s what makes Tour de Paris special – they’ve got something for everyone, whether you’re a weekend warrior or training for your first century ride. The event features multiple routes tailored to every skill level:
Off-Road Adventures: Take on the 14 or 24-mile routes on the Northeast Texas Trail for a more rugged experience through beautiful wooded terrain.
Road Routes: Choose from 22, 35, 57, 68, or 80-mile county routes that showcase the best of East Texas countryside. These roads wind through rolling farmland, past historic homesteads, and offer those picture-perfect moments that make you remember why you love cycling.
The official start kicks off at 8 AM on July 19, 2025 from the Love Civic Center in Paris, where you’ll join hundreds of other riders for what promises to be an unforgettable day on the road.
More Than Just a Bike Ride
What sets Tour de Paris apart from other cycling events is the genuine community spirit. This isn’t just about the miles – it’s about the friendships you’ll make, the stories you’ll share, and the sense of accomplishment that comes from challenging yourself on Texas roads.
The weekend festivities include a Friday night spaghetti supper ($5) and Saturday morning pancake breakfast ($6) – both perfect opportunities to fuel up and meet fellow cyclists. There’s something magical about sharing a meal with people who understand your passion for pedaling.
Similar Texas Cycling Adventures You Can’t Miss
If Tour de Paris gets your wheels spinning, you’ll want to know about these other incredible Texas cycling events:
Hotter’N Hell Hundred (Wichita Falls): Since its inception in 1982, the Hotter’N Hell Hundred Endurance ride has firmly established itself as one of the premier century rides in the United States. When searching for a way to celebrate the Wichita Falls centennial in 1982, Roby Christie, of the Wichita Falls Bicycle Club, proposed a bicycle ride – 100 miles in 100 degree heat, coining the name: Hotter’N Hell Hundred.
Easter Bike Tour (Kerrville): Three days of riding in the Texas Hill Country. Formerly known as the Easter Hill Country Tour, this ride was too great to end. Perfect for those who want to combine cycling with a Hill Country getaway.
Tour de Boerne: Known for steep hills, epic views and friendly faces, the Tour de Boerne is the fastest-growing charity bike ride in the Lone Star State.
What You Need to Know Before You Roll
Registration Smart: Save money by registering early. February 1st through May 1st gets you the best rates ($35 for adults, $20 for kids 12 and under). Wait until the day of the event and you’ll pay $60 for adults.
Come Prepared: Bring your bike in good working order, wear your helmet (it’s required), and pack your own water bottle, pumps, tubes, and tools. Water stations are available at the start/finish and all rest stops, but you’re responsible for your own repairs.
When: July 19, 2025 at 8:00 AM
Location: Love Civic Center, 2025 S Collegiate Dr, Paris, TX 75460
Get Connected: Contact Paul Allen at the Lamar County Chamber of Commerce at (903) 784-2501 or [email protected] for more information.
Why This Weekend is Your Weekend
Look, you could spend another Saturday morning indoors, or you could be out having fun in the sun getting your body’s much-needed vitamin D while being part of something that’s been bringing the cycling community together for over four decades. The 41st Annual Tour de Paris isn’t just about the miles you’ll cover – it’s about the memories you’ll make and the sense of accomplishment that comes from pushing yourself on some of Northeast Texas’s most beautiful roads.
Whether you’re tackling your first organized ride or you’re a seasoned cyclist looking for a new challenge, Tour de Paris has a route with your name on it. The early morning start, the camaraderie of fellow riders, the satisfaction of completing your chosen distance – it all adds up to one incredible day.
Don’t let another cycling season pass you by. Register now, dust off your bike, and get ready to discover why thousands of cyclists make the pilgrimage to Paris, Texas every year. Your next great cycling adventure is waiting, and it’s closer than you think.
Ready to ride? Contact the Lamar County Chamber of Commerce to register for the 41st Annual Tour de Paris. Your bike is ready – are you?
