What is a water tower and a bridge doing on RAGBRAI’s newly released logo for its 2026 ride?
RAGBRAI Director Matt Phippen ― who unveiled the new logo at a Saturday, Nov. 8, event at the ride’s Des Moines headquarters ― likely has a pretty good idea, but he won’t be revealing the where the ride will go next year until the Jan. 24 route announcement party at Vibrant Music Hall in Waukee.
What we do know is that the 53rd edition of the Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa, to be held July 19-25, will celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States’ founding and the 180th anniversary of Iowa’s statehood, according to organizers.
Water towers are a familiar sight to RAGBRAI riders, the looming goal on the horizon as they approach each town. An “Iowa Classic,” the one on the logo celebrates Iowa and Americana, according to a RAGBRAI news release. The blue, green and white hues mimic colors seen in the farm fields lining the route as the ride crosses the state.
Phippen noted in the release that water towers vary from town to town, with some painted in vibrant colors, others bearing murals and all serving as local landmarks.
“Each water tower is distinct, reflecting the personality of its community,” he said. “It’s this diversity that makes our ride so special. No two towns are alike, just as no two riders share the same story.”
Are there any clues to the route in this year’s theme? RAGBRAI organizers are not saying. But the logo and theme are reminiscent of those for RAGBRAI 36 in 2008, which traveled 471 miles from Missouri Valley to Le Claire.
Registration, Route Announcement Party tickets to go on sale Nov. 15.
Registration for RAGBRAI 53 will open at midnight Saturday, Nov. 15, at ragbrai.com/registration. The same day, tickets for the annual RAGBRAI Route Announcement Party will go on sale. Prices are $55 per individual or $500 for a table seating 10.
Philip Joens covers retail and real estate for the Des Moines Register. He can be reached at 515-284-8184 or pjoens@registermedia.com.
This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: RAGBRAI 2026 releases ‘Iowa Classic’ theme and logo celebrating Americana and Iowa
Reporting by Philip Joens, Des Moines Register / Des Moines Register
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