Viral Night-time Bike Ride for Dumplings Causes Gridlock in Central China

In November 2024, a spontaneous nighttime bike ride from Zhengzhou to Kaifeng, China, drew a crowd of tens of thousands after a social media post about a cheap dumpling trip went viral. The event caused gridlock and prompted bike-sharing companies to halt their services, according to CBS News partner network BBC News. The cycling trip, approximately 30 miles, was initially conceived by four college students who embarked on a similar journey over the summer. This incident reflects a larger trend of young people seeking inexpensive travel options amid China's challenging job market.

Spontaneous Adventure Unites Young People

The idea for the nighttime bike ride originated from four college students who, inspired by their previous summer excursion for soup dumplings, proposed the same route as a spontaneous adventure. One of the students shared with local media, "You only have one youth. You have to try a spontaneous trip with your friends." This sentiment resonated with many, leading to an overwhelming turnout for the event.

High Energy and Nostalgic Atmosphere

Participants described the event as a high-energy gathering, reminiscent of their college days. "Everyone was beaming with energy and interacting with people around them," one participant expressed. However, the sheer magnitude of the event posed challenges, with some attendees forced to dismount their bikes and walk through the crowded streets. The influx of participants also resulted in difficulties for those seeking accommodations or transportation in Kaifeng, prompting some to express regret and frustration via social media.

Traffic Disruption and Company Response

The overwhelming turnout led to significant traffic disruptions, prompting three bike-sharing companies to issue a joint statement urging participants to consider using buses or trains for long-distance travel. As congestion persisted, the companies implemented additional charges for bikes taken to different cities and closed off cycling lanes in both Zhengzhou and Kaifeng over the weekend. Despite these measures, participants remained undeterred, citing the need for stress-relief events in their lives. "People are so stressed these days, so these events are a good thing. Because happiness is infectious," one participant remarked.

Media Coverage and Future Outlook

The event garnered widespread media coverage, with Haley Ott, a CBS News Digital international reporter based in the CBS News London bureau, reporting on the incident. The spontaneous nighttime bike ride from Zhengzhou to Kaifeng not only showcased the adventurous spirit of young people in China but also highlighted the impact of social media in mobilizing large groups for unique experiences. Despite the logistical challenges and traffic disruptions caused by the event, the continued participation of young people in similar endeavors signals a desire for spontaneity and camaraderie in their lives.