This year's RAGBRAI is special. It's the ride's 50th anniversary.
Davenport Mayor Mike Matson says cyclists from all 50 states and 18 countries will travel 500 miles over seven days. They will arrive in the Quad Cities on Saturday, July 29th and dip their tires in the Mississippi.
"So the downtown is activated, it's always wonderful, but this is the center of the universe at the end of July—Davenport, the Quad Cities, and specifically along the river and downtown."
The arrival of the cyclists coincides with the 49th Bix 7.
"A historical, potentially, gathering of people from all around the world, as they usually do, but this one's special," he said. "49 years of running, 50 years of biking."
Organizers have been preparing for months. Activities include a celebration at the dip site at Centennial Park with live entertainment, food vendors, a beer garden, and free parking.
More volunteers are needed. The website is www.davenportragbrai.com.
Common Chord, Mercado on Fifth, and Quad City Arts are participating in the celebration.
