This unique event once again combines active participation with remembrance of the victims of Soviet aggression, serving as a reminder of one of the darkest chapters in European history. This is not a race—what matters is memory, not speed.

This year, the historical rides and walks will take place from August 19 to 30 in Białystok, Vilnius, Riga, Chișinău, and—for the first time—Tallinn.

The Białystok Memorial Peloton will set off on August 23, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. from the square in front of the Aleksander Węgierko Drama Theatre.

“August 23, 1939, was one of the darkest days in the history of Europe and Poland. On that day, the Ribbentrop–Molotov Pact was signed, paving the way for Germany’s invasion of Poland on September 1. To commemorate these events, the Memorial Peloton is held every year on this date. Along the route, participants will stop at locations that recall Białystok’s wartime history,” said Tadeusz Truskolaski, Mayor of Białystok, during the press conference.

Prof. Wojciech Śleszyński, Director of the Sybir Memorial Museum, highlighted the international dimension of the event:

“The Memorial Peloton is our longest-running annual event. It began a decade ago as a local initiative. Today, together with our partners from Central and Eastern Europe—countries that also suffered under Soviet aggression—we are telling this story to the world.”

This year’s route will be approximately 8 km long. Participants are welcome to join on bicycles, scooters, inline skates, or roller skates. We encourage people of all ages—children, adults, and seniors—to take part.

The Memorial Peloton is more than just a group ride—it is a living history lesson.

Registration is open until August 13 or until all places are filled.

Registration form:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScQnPbgdwsaB_22uxabSkUe7EKwo-s88DIX4L2DU5hjv3CQ5g/viewform

See you on the route!