Don’t Forget to Light up the Night

You’ve turned back your clocks, now turn on your bike lights! Daylight savings means shorter days and darker evening commutes, but it also heralds the return of Light up the Night, our annual bike light distribution campaign.

Along with our partners at the SF Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) and our amazing volunteers, each year we install hundreds of front and rear lights on bicycles for people riding at night. The campaign corresponds with the darkest months of the year, starting in November, right after Daylight Savings takes effect, and running through December. To make sure that the bicycle lights go to those who need them the most, we keep the distribution locations a secret.*

Of course, lights not only helps those on bike see and be seen, they’re also required by law. California law (CVC 21201) mandates a white front light and red rear reflector or light, as well as yellow or white reflectors on sides and/or pedals (reflective whitewalls count). Members, prepare for the time change and use your SF Bicycle Coalition membership card to purchase a set of lights at one of our discount partners. (Not a member? Join today!)

This campaign wouldn’t be possible without the support of our dedicated member-volunteers. Sign up to help install lights in a neighborhood near you!

*Please note that the lights must be installed on a bicycle, thus you must have a bicycle with you to get a light.

Become a member and you'll improve your commute and get discounts at shops across the city.