Raue Center's Night Owl Bike Ride 2026

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.

Route links will be available about a two weeks prior to the ride:

Ride with GPS:

Short Route -

Long Route -

Strava:

Short Route:

Long Route:

Volunteers Wanted!
Be a volunteer! Registration/set-up assistance, Course marshals, and Pace riders are needed. To volunteer, visit our registration page!

The majority of the route includes designated bike routes, lanes, and paths. The route is approximately 20 miles. There will also be a shorter, family-friendly route, which is about 10 miles. The route may change based on current path/street conditions and road construction. The Night Owl is limited to 500 riders. Any rider 18 years and under must be accompanied by an adult throughout the ride. The safety of Night Owl participants is of primary importance. The route is on public streets and must be shared with motor vehicles during evening hours. We require all riders to wear helmets, have lights on their bicycle, and ride no more than two abreast. The Crystal Lake Police Department also reminds us to obey all traffic laws. This is NOT a race, but a RIDE! The Crystal Lake Police Department bike patrol will ride along with us to ensure a safe and fun ride for all participants.

There are no refunds for the Night Owl ride.

Become a Sponsor!
Show your support for a bike-friendly McHenry County and get exposure with area cyclists and families!
Night Owl is a great opportunity to showcase your business or organization! When you sponsor the ride, you’re not just part of an event—you’re helping keep the arts alive and accessible for thousands of local families.

All proceeds from the ride support Raue Center For The Arts.

A variety of support packages are available to make this event a success!

For sponsorship information contact Meredith Schaefer Flowers at mflowers@rauecenter.org