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BEMIDJI — The Unicycling Society of America will host the 21st Unicycle World Championships (Unicon 21) in Bemidji, July 14-26.

Unicon is the biennial unicycling world championships. This major event is the largest unicycling gathering in the world with 1,200 to 2,000 participants, a release said.

Each Unicon covers all facets of the sport with The convention portion features where participants gather, reconnect with familiar faces and make new friends.

Previous host countries include South Korea, Spain, Canada, Italy, New Zealand and more. Most recently, the convention was held in France. The last Unicon in Minnesota was held in 1994, in Minneapolis. Unicon 21 is the first time the convention has been held in the U.S. in 22 years.

"Bemidji has many features that make it the ideal city to host a Unicon," the release said. "Its size allows international unicyclists to gather and foster community while enjoying all the city has to offer. Because so many of Bemidji's locations are within unicycle riding distance, such as the university and downtown, participants will be able to compete in events and partake in the convention while maintaining a strong sense of community with one another."

The Northwoods of Minnesota was also chosen for its ideal climate for summer outdoor recreation. Unicon is traditionally hosted every other year in the summer months; most places around the U.S. are not a suitable climate for athletes during this time.

Bemidji was chosen over major cities around the U.S. for its local support of the event and the community's excitement to host this convention, added the release.

Kirsten Goldstein, Unicon co-director and president of the Unicycling Society of America, was part of the bid process for Unicon 21 to be held in Bemidji. A Bemidji State University alumnus and resident of the Brainerd/Baxter area, Goldstein has rallied the local community to prepare to host the convention.

Goldstein will present "Save the Dates: Unicycle Convention" at Adventures in Lifelong Learning at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, April 30, at the Eagles Club, 1270 Neilson Ave. SE. Attendees can learn more about Unicon 21, how to watch as an audience member and what events to look out for in the community. This event is free and open to the public.

Most Unicon events are open to spectators, but some will require tickets for viewing by the public.

"We are excited to show off Bemidji's quintessential natural beauty and vibrant community to unicyclists from around the world," Unicon organizers said in the release.

Unicon 21 is sponsored by the Sanford Center. For a complete schedule of events or to register as a competitor or non-competitor, visit The deadline for regular registration pricing is Saturday, April 6.