CLARKSVILLE, TN – Each spring, just as sure as flowers will bloom and bees will buzz, Clarksville sees the emergence of its own DIY rolling musical event, Tour De Ville. Created in 2010 and in its 13th year, Tour De Ville is the brainchild of local musician and bike rider Stephen Mason, who teamed up with fellow rocker and music promoter Cody Parson. It was patterned after the Murfreesboro/MTSU house music scene’s band bike ride “Boro Fondo,” and Nashville’s “Tour De Fun.”
It’s the start of the year bookend event (the end of summer event is Possum Stock), and it takes place Saturday, May 13, 10 a.m. to 1 a.m. (with the ride from noon to 7 p.m.). The first stop will be at 10 a.m. at The Guitar Haunt, with parking at the Dollar General lot. For all the stops, check the schedule on Facebook.
Not only is it a chance for long time fans to see what the current local music scene is like, but it also a chance for new listeners to discover all the talent that Clarksville has to offer, and a chance to see local artists and their work at the same time.
Taking off from a central starting base, riders will stop at seven locations to pause and hear local performers, and then move to the next destination as a group for the upcoming acts. It’s a great way to enjoy a beautiful May day, hear some great music, and see some art, all while navigating through Clarksville and its beautiful scenery. Then, there’s the regular midafternoon kick ball game, and the after party during the evening at Revel House on University Avenue.
Don’t have a bike? Rent one from the kiosk downtown. Don’t care to ride? That’s OK too. It’s not required to enjoy the day. Many of the venues are within easy walking distance of each other. You’ll see posters pop up at businesses around town soon with band details, and you can always check out the event on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/events/147818551543446.
So, get some exercise, expose yourself to Art, and hear some tasty tunes at Tour De Ville 2023.