Back in 1938, on April 16, Swiss chemist Albert Hofmann synthesized a drug called LSD.   Five years later he found the drug had psychedelic properties and decided to test it out himself three days later on April 19, according to the Psychedelic Library.

This unofficial holiday is named Bicycle Day because Hofmann decided to dose himself to determine the true effects of the drug, then rode home on his bike.  During his journey home, the drug had hit him creating intense changes in his perception, according to his notes.

In his report findings, he mentions that on the bike ride he also felt extreme anxiety and terror thinking that the LSD had actually poisoned him. As soon as he arrived home and was able to relax, he realized the true properties of the drug and began to enjoy himself.

Bicycle day wasn’t called bicycle day until 38 years later when Thomas Roberts, a now retired NIU Psychology professor that specifically studies psychedelics, founded the day and held the first celebration at his home in honor of the discoveries made by Hofmann.

Roberts has an extensive background in psychedelic research.  He created the Multistate Theory, founded the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies, was a cofounder of the Council on Spiritual Practices and the International Transpersonal Association plus more, according to his brief bio on academia.edu.

It’s no wonder that a psychedelic psychology professor had an interest in honoring a huge discovery in the field that would change the world to come.  What is even better is the fact that he taught here at NIU.

He founded and celebrated the day on his own for a few years but eventually told his students, friends and the internet of his idea and celebration. Without Roberts, the anniversary of LSD would be remembered but probably not to the extent it is now due to the celebration.