Washington Evening Journal
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Fairfield RAGBRAI unveils ‘Woodstalk’ theme
Courtesy of Terry Baker
May. 10, 2024 8:00 pm
Fairfield's RAGBRAI committee is thrilled to announce the official theme for this year's ride: "Woodstalk." A clever homage to the iconic Woodstock music festival, "Woodstalk" encapsulates the spirit of both cycling and music, promising riders an unforgettable journey through Iowa's picturesque cornfields.
The theme was selected by a dedicated group of 15 committee chairs, reflecting the vibrant creativity and collaborative spirit of Fairfield's community. Spearheading the visual representation of "Woodstalk" is Stephanie Wharton, a local bike rider and RAGBRAI veteran, whose talent and passion are evident in the captivating logo design. The logo features a cyclist amidst towering cornstalks, capturing the essence of both the ride and the rural landscape of Iowa.
"Our goal with 'Woodstalk' is to infuse the spirit of adventure and camaraderie that defines RAGBRAI with a nostalgic nod to one of the most iconic music festivals in history," said Stephanie Wharton, designer of the "Woodstalk" logo. "I'm proud to contribute to an event that brings together cyclists from all walks of life in celebration of community and the open road."
The "Woodstalk" theme aligns seamlessly with this year's overarching RAGBRAI theme, "Home Sweet Home", which celebrates the sense of belonging and hospitality that defines Iowa's welcoming towns. Each town along the route will create its own unique sub-theme and logo, contributing to the diverse tapestry of experiences that await riders.
The colors of Fairfield's "Woodstalk" logo pay homage to both the vintage aesthetics of RAGBRAI and the vibrant hues of the 60s and 70s, evoking a sense of nostalgia and joy. This distinctive palette sets the tone for an immersive experience that promises to inspire both riders and spectators alike.
"We're excited to bring the spirit of Woodstock to Fairfield and create an atmosphere of peace, love, and cycling," said Committee member, Jen Kranz. "With 'Woodstalk' as our guiding theme, we're gearing up for an unforgettable day of hospitality, music, and adventure as we welcome over 20,000 riders and their support teams to our vibrant town."
Fairfield will serve as a meeting stop and lunch destination for RAGBRAI participants on July 26th, before they continue their journey to the overnight destination of Mt. Pleasant. Vendor applications are currently being accepted, and details about entertainment for the day will be announced soon.