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On the evening of September 19, 2025, my son, my daughter, and I joined one of Vienna’s most exciting community events — the Friday Night Skating. The gathering point was Maria-Theresien-Platz in the 1st District, where the square was already buzzing with energy when we arrived before 9 p.m. Thousands of cyclists and skaters were getting ready, chatting, checking their gear, and sharing the anticipation of the night ride.
When the event officially started at 9 p.m., the atmosphere transformed. A sea of flashing lights and reflective vests began moving in unison, filling the streets with a sense of freedom and joy. Families, groups of friends, seasoned cyclists, and casual skaters all became part of one long, flowing parade.
The highlight of the night was the route — the Austrian Highway near Floridsdorf. For a few hours, it was completely closed to cars, giving us the rare and thrilling experience of cycling on the highway. Riding together with my children on such a wide, open road felt surreal. Normally, the highway is filled with the rush of traffic, but that night it was ours — silent except for the whir of wheels, laughter, and music from portable speakers along the way.
What made it even more special was the shared experience with my kids. We encouraged each other up gentle slopes, raced a little on the open stretches, and took moments to simply ride side by side, soaking in the night air and the view of Vienna from the highway. Their excitement and joy made the night unforgettable.
By the time we returned, tired but exhilarated, we agreed this was more than just a ride — it was a memory we would carry together. Cycling on the highway, surrounded by thousands of others, felt like reclaiming the city in a new and joyful way.
- Hector Pascua/picture: Facebook
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