Night Owl Bike Ride

Description

NEW THIS YEAR: Start and finish your ride under the iconic Raue Center marquee—then celebrate together at the after party.

Welcome to the 2026 Night Owl Bike Ride—one of the most unique and community-driven nights of the summer. As you ride through Crystal Lake under the stars, know that every dollar raised stays right here in McHenry County, supporting Raue Center For The Arts and our mission to make the arts accessible to all. Your participation helps provide scholarships for youth classes and summer camps, free tickets for veterans, affordable access for schools, and so many more programs that bring creativity, connection, and opportunity to our community.

Date:
Saturday, August 8, 2026

Location:
Start & End – Raue Center For The Arts, 26 N Williams St., Crystal Lake IL

Packet Pick-up @ Raue Center
3pm – 6 pm – Friday, August 7, 2026 @ location TBD
10 am – 1 pm – Saturday, August 8, 2026 @ Raue Center
7:30-8:45pm Saturday August 8, 2026 @ Raue Center

Event Timeline:
7:30 pm – On-site Registration Opens (you can pick your packet up during this time as well)
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
11:30 pm – Route closes
Midnight – Party ends

Registration includes t-shirt** and after party admission:*
$38 ends June 21st
$46 ends August 7th
$55 Day of
Kids (12 & under) $18
*Pricing includes soft-style t-shirt** and after party, before fees.

**After July 1st t-shirts are while supplies last.

Ride for a reason—every registration supports local arts access right here in McHenry County!!

Quick Safety Checklist (Required to Ride):
Helmets are mandatory.
Lights and reflectors are mandatory.
Review the route before you start the ride.
Obey all traffic laws. (Officers may issue citations.)
Carry an ID and cell phone. – A cell phone number for at least one member of your group MUST be on file when you check in.
Bike must be in good condition.
Do not ride more than two abreast.
Please bring a reusable water bottle.
In the event of an emergency during the ride, please call 911

The rest stop is located at Woodscreek Park. Water, restrooms, snacks, and basic first aid will be available.
Watch our Facebook page for any updates on the ride. There will be no refunds for the ride.