Billed as the world's largest holiday-themed costume group bicycle ride for charity, the Santa Cycle Rampage returns on Saturday, Dec. 7 for its 19th year. Plus, you won't want to miss the Night Before Rampage party at Wheel & Sprocket - Bay View (187 E. Becher St.) on Friday, December 6 from 3 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Registration is now open to ride, and proceeds benefit the Wisconsin Bike Fed's critical work in promoting cycling as a healthy way of living, as well as educational projects to help kids and families to ride safer and more often.
"We've had a great increase in the number of registered riders versus the total number of riders the past few years, and we appreciate everyone's support," said Assistant Director, Jake Newborn.
According to Newborn, official rider registration—also known as “The Nice List”—has grown from around 600 good boys and girls, counted 5 years ago, to at least 1600 last year.
Most admissions includes a collectible sticker, coupons and an official “Nice List” bib. You can also upgrade to a limited edition metal ornament.
The Santa Cycle Rampage is is a slow roll-style, police-escorted, looped route, with speeds and spirits that should accomodate most riders of any age and skill level. The event has historically drawn thousands of riders that stretch dozens of blocks as they travel through the city, making merry and featuring all stripes of costumes and characters, including reindeer, snowfolk, misfit toys and menorahs as well as seasonal villains, like the Grinch and Krampus.
This year the Bike Fed returns with three official starting options: one for most riders and another for families.
If you want to ride the full 12-mile route, you'll start promptly at 9:30 a.m. at the offices of the Bike Fed at 187 E. Becher St. and travel through downtown and the East Side before heading back to Bay View. Or, if you prefer an abbreviated adult version, you can join the ride at the halfway point at Hollander Grand Cafe on Downer Avenue (2608 N. Downer Ave.) around roughly 10:15 a.m.
The shorter family-friendly route—dubbed the Elf Cycle Frenzy—will be a 3-mile loop just around Bay View and will leave shortly after the main group.
But remember, whichever route you choose, no matter what your starting point is, neighborhood parking will be incredibly tight and riding to the event is highly encouraged. However, if you cannot ride out, be prepared to park further away.
To find out more about the programs and mission of the Wisconsin Bike Fed, check out their website at wisconsinbikefed.org. You can also purchase merchandise now or RSVP to the event on Facebook.
Jason McDowell grew up in central Iowa and moved to Milwaukee in 2000 to attend the Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design.
In 2006 he began working with OnMilwaukee as an advertising designer, but has since taken on a variety of rolls as the Creative Director, tackling all kinds of design problems, from digital to print, advertising to branding, icons to programming.
In 2016 he picked up the 414 Digital Star of the Year award.
Most other times he can be found racing bicycles, playing board games, or petting dogs.
