Milwaukee's Santa Cycle Rampage 2025 Returns

Your family can join hundreds of Santas, elves, and reindeer on bikes this December for Milwaukee's most joyful winter tradition.

The Santa Cycle Rampage isn't just a bike ride—it's a slow-rolling holiday party where families pedal through city streets in full costume, creating what participants call "an ocean of Santas." This police-escorted, family-friendly event supports youth bike education while proving that winter cycling can be magical, not miserable. Whether your kids are ready for 13 miles or just 3, there's a perfect option for your family to join this beloved community celebration on December 6, 2025.

What makes thousands of families dress as Santa and ride bikes in December

Picture this: over 2,000 cyclists dressed as Santas, elves, reindeer, snowmen, and even the Grinch, pedaling together through Milwaukee's streets on a crisp December morning. That's the Santa Cycle Rampage—billed as the world's largest holiday-themed costume group bike ride for charity. Started over 20 years ago by Dave Schlabowske, former Wisconsin Bike Fed Executive Director, what began as a small pub crawl with fewer than 10 friends has exploded into Milwaukee's most beloved winter cycling tradition.

The event was born from a simple but powerful idea: show people that cycling doesn't stop when temperatures drop. Schlabowske wanted to reward year-round cyclists with something fun while demonstrating how accessible winter biking can be. What makes this event truly special is how it transforms the typical cyclist-driver dynamic. As one organizer put it, "It's the one time of year that tons of cars honk at you for a good reason." Drivers wave, pedestrians cheer, and for a few glorious hours, Milwaukee becomes a winter wonderland on wheels.

The ride has become more than just a fun outing. It's evolved into a major fundraiser for the Wisconsin Bike Fed, supporting programs that teach bike safety to thousands of Milwaukee-area kids each year. The 2023 Milwaukee and Madison rides combined raised $50,000, funding hands-on bike education for over 2,000 young cyclists in 2024 alone. Your family doesn't just get to ride with thousands of Santas—you're supporting programs that could teach your own children (or their classmates) how to ride safely.

What participants love most is the joyful spectacle of it all. Bikes are decked out with tinsel, lights, and candy canes. Some ambitious riders build full sleigh structures around their bikes. The slow, parade-style pace stretches the group for blocks, creating what first-time rider Mark Hense described as something "to behold" once you're "soaked up into an ocean of Santas." It's ridiculous in the best possible way—and a heck of a lot of fun.

Everything you need to know for December 6, 2025

Mark your calendars for Saturday, December 6, 2025. The main ride kicks off at exactly 9:30 AM—and organizers mean it when they say "sharp," so don't be late! Gathering starts at 8:00 AM at the Wisconsin Bike Fed headquarters and Wheel & Sprocket shop at 187 E. Becher St. in Bay View. This gives families plenty of time to pick up packets, use restrooms, take photos, and soak in the festive atmosphere before the ride begins.

The full route covers 13 miles through a police-escorted course that winds from Bay View through downtown and the East Side before looping back. But here's the beauty of this event—you're not locked into one distance. Families have three fantastic options:

The full 13-mile experience starts in Bay View and offers the complete Santa Cycle adventure. At a slow-roll pace of 5-10 mph, this takes about two hours and returns around 11:30 AM. If your kids are comfortable riding that distance and you want the full experience, this is your route.

The 7-mile half route lets you join at the halfway point at Hollander Grand Café on Downer Avenue (2608 N. Downer Ave.). The main group arrives there around 10:15 AM. This option is perfect for North Shore families—you can ride from Shorewood or Whitefish Bay directly to Downer Avenue and hop right in. It's about half the distance but all the fun.

The Elf Cycle Frenzy is the game-changer for families with younger children. This dedicated 3.5-mile family ride departs at 9:45 AM (right after the main ride leaves) and is specifically designed for kids. Led by Wisconsin Bike Fed's experienced Safe Routes to School staff, it loops through the Bay View neighborhood and Humboldt Park at a very gentle pace. The route ends at Café Centraal with hot cocoa, snacks, and holiday activities for kids—basically the perfect morning for little ones who want to participate without the full marathon.

Registration opens in October, and you'll want to sign up by November 20, 2025 if you want your "Nice List" packet mailed directly to your home. After that date, you'll need to pick up packets in person either Friday evening (December 5, 3:00-6:30 PM) or Saturday morning (8:00-9:00 AM). Packet pickup Friday evening doubles as a pre-event celebration and helps you avoid Saturday morning lines.

Yes, your kids can absolutely do this

One question I hear from other parents: "Is my child really ready for this?" The short answer is yes, probably—because the organizers have thoughtfully created options for virtually every age and ability level.

The Elf Cycle Frenzy exists specifically for families with young children. At just 3.5 miles through a safe neighborhood route with professional staff leadership, even kindergarteners who can ride a bike can participate. The ride ends with hot cocoa and kid-friendly activities, not bar stops. This is the family option if you have elementary-aged kids or children new to group riding.

For older kids and teens comfortable with longer rides, the half route (7 miles) or full route (13 miles) work beautifully. The key factor isn't just distance—it's the slow-roll pace. This isn't a race. Nobody's training for anything. The group moves at 5-10 mph, which is conversational cycling speed. If your child can ride around your neighborhood comfortably, they can handle this ride.

The police escort is a massive safety factor that puts parent hearts at ease. The entire route is escorted by Milwaukee police, with officers managing intersections. Lead and sweep riders keep the group together. You're essentially riding in a protected bubble where the normal stresses of urban cycling disappear. One parent told me it's the safest their family has felt cycling in the city.

Age-wise, there's no official minimum. Children under 18 ride free (technically kids' tickets are just $5), though parents must sign waivers. The event welcomes all ages—I've seen kids as young as 5 or 6 on the Elf ride, and teens often join the full route with parents or friends.

Budget-friendly registration that supports youth cycling

Registration fees are remarkably reasonable for what you get. Based on 2024 pricing (2025 may be similar), expect to pay around $27 for a single adult, $47 for a pair of adults, or $60 for a family package (2 adults + 2 children). Additional children's tickets are just $5 each.

These aren't just entry fees—they're charitable donations to the Wisconsin Bike Fed, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Your registration directly funds bike safety education programs for Milwaukee-area kids, free bike repairs for low-income residents, and advocacy work for better cycling infrastructure. When you register, you're not just buying a fun morning—you're investing in programs that may teach your own children's classmates how to ride safely.

Your registration includes an official "Nice List" bib, collectible sticker pack, coupons for participating locations, and updates about the event. You can also purchase optional merchandise like limited-edition ornaments, shirts, and hoodies to commemorate the experience. Pre-order by October 27 to guarantee your size.

All registrations are non-refundable, so check the weather forecast and commit. Though honestly, the event happens "rain, snow, or shine," and even in the wettest, coldest years, organizers report participants having a blast. There's something about being slightly uncomfortable together that makes the hot cocoa taste better afterward.

Santa suit required (but really, trust us on this)

Event founder Dave Schlabowske puts it plainly: "You can get a Santa suit for $12 at a Walgreens, and it makes a huge difference." While a Santa hat is technically acceptable, wearing the full suit creates a totally different experience. When you're surrounded by thousands of other Santas, being in full costume transforms you from spectator to participant in the magic.

All holiday characters are welcome—Mrs. Claus, elves, reindeer, snowmen, Grinch, Krampus, dreidels, menorahs, even Festivus celebrants. The event warmly embraces all faiths and traditions. The key is committing to the festive spirit. I've seen incredibly creative costumes: elves with striped tights, inflatable reindeer costumes, Ralphie in his pink bunny suit from A Christmas Story, even someone dressed as a Christmas tree.

Now let's talk about the December weather reality. Average Milwaukee temperatures in early December hover in the mid-30s to low 40s°F during the day, potentially dipping into the 20s. You'll likely face cold, possibly windy, maybe snowy conditions. This is where smart layering saves the day.

Under your Santa suit, wear thermal base layers made of moisture-wicking synthetic or merino wool—never cotton, which stays wet and makes you colder. Add a fleece or wool mid-layer for insulation. The Santa suit itself provides decent wind protection. For your extremities, invest in waterproof winter gloves (you can layer thin gloves underneath the red Santa gloves), wool or synthetic thermal socks (just one pair—multiple pairs restrict circulation and make feet colder), and a thin hat or headband under your helmet. A neck gaiter or balaclava protects your face, though the Santa beard helps too.

Here's the counterintuitive trick: dress to feel slightly cold at the start. You'll generate significant heat once you're pedaling, even at a slow pace. Overdressing leads to sweating, which then makes you dangerously cold. Many experienced participants bring an extra layer in a backpack just in case, but rarely need it.

Don't forget your helmet (required) and bike lights (front white, rear red)—essential for December visibility even during daytime. And please, get the full Santa suit. You'll thank me when you see your photos.

Deck your bike with tinsel and lights

One of the most delightful aspects of Santa Cycle Rampage is the bike decorations. Participants go all out. Tinsel wrapped around frames, battery-powered Christmas lights strung along handlebars, candy canes zip-tied to forks, jingle bells attached to spokes, ornaments dangling from saddles—the creativity is boundless. Some riders mount speakers to play holiday music. I've seen handlebars fitted with reindeer antlers and bikes transformed into rolling light displays worthy of a suburban front lawn.

Any bike works—road bikes, mountain bikes, cruisers, tandems, fat bikes, even e-bikes and unicycles. No special winter bike needed since the route uses cleared city streets. Just make sure your bike is in good working condition. Check tire pressure, brakes, and gears beforehand, or take advantage of pre-event tune-up sessions sometimes offered.

Pack light but smart. Bring water in an insulated bottle if possible (cold weather still requires hydration), soft snacks that won't freeze solid (avoid hard energy bars), a small multi-tool and spare tube for repairs, cash for food and drinks at stops, and your phone for photos. Hand and toe warmers are optional but appreciated luxuries.

One important note: organizers warn that parking is extremely limited at the start location. If you drive, do not leave valuables in your car. Better yet, embrace the spirit and ride your bike to the event. Many North Shore families from Shorewood, Whitefish Bay, and Fox Point can easily ride to either the Bay View start or join at the Downer Avenue halfway point.

Safety tips from parents who've done this

The Santa Cycle Rampage has an excellent safety record. In 2024, organizers reported zero bicycling accidents during the event, with just one minor bike malfunction-related injury (an ankle strain). The combination of police escort, slow pace, professional staff, and sheer safety-in-numbers makes this one of the safest cycling events you'll find.

That said, smart families take additional precautions. Arrive early (8:00 AM for a 9:30 AM start) to get settled without rushing. Discuss hand signals and group riding expectations with your kids beforehand. In larger family groups, position children between adults—essentially creating a protective cocoon. Practice riding together as a family before the event if your kids are new to group cycling.

Choose the right route for your family's abilities. The Elf Cycle Frenzy is perfect if your child is new to group riding, not confident in crowds, or simply can't ride 12+ miles. There's zero shame in choosing the shorter option—in fact, it shows smart parenting. You want this to be fun, not an endurance test.

During the ride, stay hydrated despite the cold (dehydration happens in winter too), take breaks as needed (groups naturally split throughout the ride), and avoid sudden movements or sharp turns. Watch for salt, snow, and ice on the road that can create slippery spots. The slow pace gives plenty of reaction time, but cold surfaces mean longer braking distances.

The police escort doesn't mean zero traffic awareness—stay alert at all times. Follow lead riders and staff guidance at intersections. Ride predictably, signal your intentions, and communicate with fellow riders. The beauty of the slow-roll pace is you can actually have conversations with other families while riding, making it social rather than stressful.

The community-building aspect can't be overstated. You'll ride alongside neighbors you've never met, chat with families from across Milwaukee County, and feel part of something bigger than your individual family. Kids see hundreds of other children participating, which normalizes winter cycling and outdoor winter activity. Many families report that participating in Santa Cycle Rampage gave their children newfound confidence for winter biking and outdoor play.

The event also supports programs that directly benefit our communities. The Wisconsin Bike Fed's Safe Routes to School initiatives, youth bike education, and advocacy for better cycling infrastructure serve North Shore families. When you register, you're literally funding programs that may teach your child or their classmates essential bike safety skills.

Plus, there's the simple joy of riding through familiar streets in an entirely new context. The East Side and Downer Avenue area look magical when filled with thousands of costumed cyclists. It's like seeing your neighborhood through new eyes—and your kids will remember it for years.

Post-ride hot cocoa and holiday cheer

The ride itself is just the beginning. The real magic happens at the Santa Gathering Places—participating bars, cafes, and restaurants throughout Milwaukee that welcome costumed cyclists with open arms (and often special deals). These spots become impromptu holiday parties where families rest, refuel, and celebrate together.

For families doing the Elf Cycle Frenzy, the ride ends at Café Centraal (2306 S. Kinnickinnic Ave.) with a dedicated hot cocoa bar, kid-friendly snacks, and holiday activities specifically designed for young children. This is the perfect cap to your family's morning—kids get treats and activities while parents grab coffee and decompress.

For those completing the full or half route, options abound. Hollander Grand Café on Downer Avenue (the halfway point) is a favorite North Shore stop with warm beverages and food. Lakefront Brewery (1872 N Commerce St.) welcomes the jolly horde with beer and Wisconsin cheese curds. Great Lakes Distillery (616 W Virginia St.), Boone & Crockett (818 S Water St.), and Nomad World Pub (1401 E Brady St.) all participate.

Back at the start/finish location in Bay View, expect fire pits, warm beverages for sale, and often food trucks or pop-ups. The atmosphere is festive and celebratory as riders return, compare costume notes, and share stories from the route. This is where you'll meet other North Shore families and likely start planning next year's participation.

Don't miss the Night Before Rampage Party on Friday, December 6, from 3:00-7:00 PM at Wheel & Sprocket in Bay View. This pre-event celebration offers packet pickup, a chance to meet other participants, and builds anticipation for Saturday's ride. It's a great way to ease first-timers' nerves.

The social aspect extends beyond official gathering places. Groups of friends often split off to visit favorite spots, creating their own mini pub crawls (milk and cookies for kids, beer and cheese curds for adults). The event has evolved from its origins as a pub crawl among friends into a more family-friendly celebration, but that spirit of joyful wandering remains.

Rookie tips from veteran Santa riders

First-time participants consistently report wishing they'd known certain things beforehand. Here's the collected wisdom from families who've done this before:

Register early and get the full suit. This advice appears in virtually every first-timer reflection. The $12 Walgreens Santa suit makes a massive difference in your experience versus just wearing a hat. And registering early (especially by November 20 for mailed packets) ensures you get all updates and avoid last-minute stress.

Choose the right route for your family's realistic abilities, not aspirational ones. If there's any doubt whether your child can handle 13 miles, opt for the Elf Cycle Frenzy or half route. You can always do the full route next year. First-time success builds enthusiasm; struggling through too much distance creates negative associations.

The layering sweet spot is colder than you think. Multiple experienced participants warn against overdressing. Wear one less layer than seems reasonable. You'll warm up quickly once pedaling, and being slightly cold at the start is vastly preferable to sweating and then freezing.

Arrive early, but expect waiting. With 2,000+ participants, there's inevitable bunching at the start. The 8:00 AM arrival recommendation isn't just about picking up packets—it's about settling in before the chaos. Bring patience, use the extra time for photos, and embrace the festive atmosphere.

Bring more cash than you think you need for food and drinks at stops. Many participating locations get slammed with hungry Santas, and credit card systems sometimes struggle. Having cash keeps things moving.

Don't stress about getting separated from friends. With thousands of riders, maintaining a tight group is nearly impossible. Plan to meet at specific Santa Gathering Places or at the finish. Exchange phone numbers beforehand.

The event is weather-proof, you need to be too. The ride happens regardless of conditions. Snow, rain, wind—it's going to happen anyway. Mental preparation for potentially miserable weather makes actually nice-ish weather feel like a bonus. And honestly, surviving slightly uncomfortable conditions together creates the best stories.

Take lots of photos but also put the phone away sometimes. Yes, capture memories—the visual of thousands of costumed cyclists is incredible. But also be present. Watch your kids' faces. Notice the spectators cheering. Feel the moment. These are the memories that stick.

Recruit friends before you go. Almost universally, first-time participants say "we're bringing more friends next year." Skip that waiting period—recruit friends now. Everything's more fun with a group, and having buddies helps nervous kids feel braver.

Getting there without driving yourself crazy

Here's the tough love: parking near the start location is incredibly tight. Organizers emphasize this repeatedly. If you absolutely must drive, arrive very early (before 8:00 AM), expect to park several blocks away (try Bay St. east of KK Ave. or S. 1st St.), and do not leave valuables in your car.

But here's the better plan, especially for North Shore families: ride your bike to the event. Seriously. This is a cycling event celebrating winter biking—arriving by bike is the most authentic way to participate. From Shorewood or Whitefish Bay, you can ride directly to the halfway point at Hollander Grand Café on Downer Avenue and join the ride there around 10:15 AM. This cuts your riding to just the 7-mile half route and eliminates parking stress entirely.

For families starting at the Bay View location, riding from the North Shore is about 6-8 miles depending on your exact starting point—totally doable with kids who'll be riding 13 miles anyway. Use the Oak Leaf Trail or bike-friendly routes along the lakefront. You're already dressed as Santa and riding a decorated bike; you might as well start the adventure from home.

If you're doing the Elf Cycle Frenzy with young children, driving makes more sense. In that case, arrive at the Wisconsin Bike Fed headquarters (187 E. Becher St.) by 7:30 AM to secure parking, knowing you may walk several blocks with kids and bikes. Consider this part of the adventure rather than a hassle.

Public transit is an option, though admittedly awkward with bikes. Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) serves the Bay View area with multiple bus routes, and bikes are allowed on racks (space permitting). The Downer Avenue area is served by routes along Oakland Avenue. Check RideMCTS.com for schedules.

For the Friday night packet pickup (3:00-6:30 PM), parking is slightly less chaotic but still challenging. This is another great time to ride your bike if weather permits.

Consider carpooling with other North Shore families—one vehicle carrying multiple families' bikes on a rack is more efficient than several cars. Coordinate through school parent networks or neighborhood groups. You'll likely discover neighbors you didn't know were participating.

Questions to ask and where to get answers

For the most current information, visit the official website at wisconsinbikefed.org/santa-cycle-rampage/ where registration links, route maps, and updates appear as December approaches. The site includes photos from past years that help you visualize what you're getting into.

Jake Newborn, the Wisconsin Bike Fed's Assistant Director and "Head Santa in Charge," is your go-to contact for questions. Reach him at jake.newborn@wisconsinbikefed.org or (414) 253-3331. For general inquiries, email info@wisconsinbikefed.org or call the main line at (414) 626-1540.

The Santa Cycle Rampage MKE Facebook page (facebook.com/santacyclerampagemke) is incredibly active with over 2,400 followers. It's where route updates, weather advisories, and last-minute changes get posted. Join the page early to see photos from past years and connect with other participating families.

Specific questions to ask if you're unsure:

• Can my child's bike type (trailer bike, tandem, recumbent) participate? (Answer: almost certainly yes)

• Are training wheels allowed on the Elf Cycle Frenzy? (Check with organizers, but likely yes)

• Can I bring a bike trailer with a baby? (Typically yes, but confirm)

• What happens if I have a mechanical issue during the ride? (Staff and sweep riders help, but bring basic tools)

• Are there restrooms along the route? (Yes, at the halfway point and at Santa Gathering Places)

Sponsorship and volunteer opportunities exist for those wanting deeper involvement. Contact info@wisconsinbikefed.org to discuss. Businesses can become official Santa Gathering Places or event sponsors. Individuals can volunteer as route marshals or staff.

Why this matters for your family

I'm writing this not just as a guide but as an enthusiastic participant who's seen what this event does for families. Santa Cycle Rampage creates shared memories that last far beyond the 2-3 hours you're actually riding. It's the photos of your 7-year-old dressed as an elf on their decorated bike. It's your teenager who normally rolls their eyes at family activities admitting they had fun. It's discovering your neighbors three houses down also dress as Santa and ride bikes. It's hot cocoa tasting better because you earned it in 35-degree weather.

The event teaches our children that winter doesn't mean staying inside. In Wisconsin, we have six months of cold weather—if kids learn to hide from it, they lose half their childhood to fear. Santa Cycle Rampage shows them winter can be magical, active, and fun. That's a lesson worth $60 and some uncomfortable cold.

It supports programs that directly benefit our community's children. The Wisconsin Bike Fed's bike safety education reached 2,000+ Milwaukee County kids in 2024, funded partly by this event. Some of those kids attend our North Shore schools. Your registration dollars translate directly into children learning essential life skills.

Most importantly, it's pure, ridiculous joy at a time of year when we all need more of that. December gets hectic with shopping, parties, expectations, and stress. Taking a morning to dress absurdly and ride bikes with 2,000 other absurdly-dressed people is the reset button we don't know we need.

So grab those $12 Santa suits from Walgreens. Register by November 20. Decorate your bikes with tinsel. Tell your kids they'll remember this forever—because they will. And on December 6, 2025, we'll see you among the ocean of Santas, creating the kind of family memory that defines childhood in Milwaukee.

Ho ho ho—let's ride.