BIKE VAN BUREN XXXV
AUGUST 21-22, 2021
The Villages of Van Buren County, Iowa will be hosting the 35TH annual Bike Van Buren on August 21 & 22. Bicycling enthusiasts will pedal their way through the historical villages during this two-day event in the hills of Southeast Iowa. The Villages will welcome the bicyclists with a variety of refreshments and outstanding hospitality, all included as part of the registration fee! The routes will lead you through some of the most picturesque countryside in Iowa! You can register for Bike Van Buren online at villagesofvanburen.com through August 18. Walk-up registration is welcome and will be held at the Keosauqua City Park, Saturday 7-8:30am. Sunday only riders and walk-up registration will also be at the Keosauqua City Park on Sunday from 7:30-8:00am. Two-day registration fees: Adults: $45, Children under 18 years: $37. Single day registration: Adults: $35, Children $27.
Routes for both Saturday and Sunday have a primary route along with alternate routes. Riders are always welcome to create their own route as well. All routes will begin and end at the Keosauqua City Park, and all are clearly marked with large colored arrows. Bickel’s Cycling & Fitness of Burlington will provide technical support and sag wagons will be en-route with the riders at all times. Phone numbers for staff support crews are provided on the maps riders will receive upon registration. Riders are encouraged to carry a cell phone. All support crews will be equipped with free cold bottled water, courtesy of the Bonaparte Retreat, and limited first aid.
Riders will have the option to purchase a lunch band at registration ($10 adults, $7 youth). Saturday’s lunch will be prepared by the Stockport Public Library and held at the American Legion in Stockport. Sunday’s lunch will be provided by Cantril Grass Roots and held at the Township Hall at Waubonsie Park in Cantril. Registered riders will take advantage of 100% complimentary refreshments at each hospitality stop. Hospitality stops will include some fascinating sites such as the Stone House in Bentonsport, Harrisburg Church, and the Birmingham Shelter (next to the recently restored historic log cabin).
The Poker Run is back for 2021! Riders will try to build their best hand of poker by drawing cards at designated hospitality stops. The best hand on each day will win $50 cash. Bickel’s Cycling & Fitness in Burlington will provide prizes for the remaining place winners.
Saturday’s ride will conclude at the Keosauqua City Park. The Villages Folk School will be holding their Outdoor BBQ and Bake Sale under the big tent in the Keosauqua City Park beginning at 5pm. Purchase a brisket meal for $10 or pulled pork meal for $8 which includes two sides, chips and drink. The bake sale table will be full of pies, cakes, cookies, and bars and available to purchase individually or as a whole. Enjoy with your meal or take home to enjoy later!
Hotel Manning will be providing musical entertainment at the Hotel’s Riverside Courtyard both Friday and Saturday evenings! Get the weekend started on Friday night with the Strait Run, a family band out of Vinton, Iowa. They will be performing their mix of classic rock and roll from 7-10pm. After a long day of riding and a great meal in the park, relax on Saturday night to the musical talents of Southeast Iowa’s own John Boyer from 5-9pm.
Also back for 2021 is the delicious Keosauqua Lions all-you-can-eat Pancake breakfast under the big tent in the Keosauqua City Park and EVERYONE is invited! Get your fill of pancakes and sausage both mornings from 6:30-9am. Bring the family down and support your local organizations!
For more information contact: Villages of Van Buren 800-868-7822 / 319-293-7111 villagesofvanburen.com