Raue Center's Night Owl Bike Ride 2026

New This Year

• Start & Finish: Under the iconic Raue Center marquee.
• Celebration: Join us for the after-party!

Event Overview

• Welcome: Experience the unique Night Owl Bike Ride in Crystal Lake.
• Support Local Arts: Every registration fee stays in McHenry County, benefitting Raue Center For The Arts.
• Mission: Help make the arts accessible to all through fundraising.
• Programs Supported: Scholarships for youth programs, free tickets for veterans, and more.

Event Details

• Date: Saturday, August 8, 2026
• Location: Start & End – Raue Center For The Arts, 26 N Williams St., Crystal Lake, IL
• Packet Pick-up:
  • 3pm – 6pm – Friday, August 7, 2026 @ location TBD
  • 10am – 1pm – Saturday, August 8, 2026 @ Raue Center
  • 7:30pm – 8:45pm – Saturday, August 8, 2026 @ Raue Center

Event Timeline

• 7:30 pm: On-site Registration Opens
• 9:00 pm: Long Ride starts (20+/- miles)
• 9:05 pm: Short Ride starts (10+/- miles)
• 9:30 pm: After Party begins at Raue Center

Registration Details

• Pricing: $38 until June 21st, $46 until August 7th, $55 on the day of the event.
• Kids 12 & Under: $18
• Includes: Soft-style t-shirt and after-party admission before fees.
• T-shirt Availability: After July 1st, t-shirts available while supplies last.

Safety Checklist

• Helmets: Mandatory for all riders.
• Lights & Reflectors: Required on bicycles.
• Route Review: Ensure you know the route before starting.
• Traffic Laws: Obey all local laws: citations may be issued.

Rest Stop Information

• Location: Woodscreek Park
• Amenities: Water, restrooms, snacks, and basic first aid available.

Ride Routes

• Long Route: View on Ride with GPS
• Short Route: View on Ride with GPS
• Strava Long Route: View on Strava
• Strava Short Route: View on Strava

Volunteers Wanted

• Roles Needed: Registration/setup assistance, course marshals, and pace riders.
• Sign Up: Visit our registration page.

Sponsorship Information

• Show Your Support: Help fund a bike-friendly McHenry County.
• Visibility: Reach local cyclists and families through sponsorship.
• Event Contribution: All proceeds support Raue Center For The Arts.
• Contact: For sponsorship info, email Meredith Schaefer Flowers at mflowers@rauecenter.org

Join Us!

• Ride for a Reason: Every registration helps support local arts accessibility in McHenry County.
• Event Link: More information and registration