The United Performing Arts Fund Announces UPAF Ride for the Arts, presented by Miller Lite, will Feature New Course Across the Hoan Bridge on Sunday, June 5, 2022
The United Performing Arts Fund (UPAF) announced today that the annual UPAF Ride for the Arts returns Sunday, June 5, featuring the exciting new “Hoan Loop Course” that’s completely closed to vehicle traffic for the entire event, creating a safe environment where riders rule the road.
The course will feature a scenic 12-mile loop, utilizing Interstate 794 from downtown Milwaukee to Cudahy and back again. From 7 to 10 a.m., participants of all ages and abilities can ride the route and travel over the Hoan Bridge multiple times selecting distances between 5 to 60 miles.
“We couldn’t be more excited to premiere this first-of-its kind participant experience and bike route for the UPAF Ride for the Arts. With a course available to bikers only, our riders are the stars in this event” said Christine Hojnacki, Chief Advancement Officer at the United Performing Arts Fund. “For more than forty years, riders of all ages have enjoyed participating in this annual event. We are so pleased to continue this Milwaukee tradition that brings people together for a day of fun and festivities and supports UPAF’s annual fundraising efforts for local performing arts organizations.”
Participants also have the option to ride in the “Slow Roll for the Arts,” a 1-mile group ride in celebration of the arts through the Historic Third Ward of Milwaukee, past the Baumgartner Center for Dance, home of UPAF Member the Milwaukee Ballet. The slow roll will gather downtown departing at 10:30 a.m. and return to the finish line party at Urban Park, outside the north gates of Summerfest. Participants are encouraged to ride in costume for a chance to win prizes.
Following their ride, participants will enjoy a finish line party until 1 p.m. at Urban Park, the green space between the north gate of Summerfest and Discovery World. This party will feature food and beverage, music and entertainment by UPAF’s local performing arts groups and artists, and activities for all ages.
UPAF is also pleased to have Miller Lite return as the Presenting Sponsor for the 32nd consecutive year. “The UPAF Ride for the Arts is a signature event that our community looks forward to every year,” said Tami Garrison, community affairs director for Molson Coors. “Molson Coors is proud to once again partner with UPAF for this fundraising event to support our local performing arts organizations.”
Registration for the UPAF Ride for the Arts is open now at http://upafride.org . Participants can register at the early-bird price of $50 through Feb. 14 and $65 after this date. Kids 12 and under ride free with an adult registration.
UPAF is incredibly grateful to all Ride sponsors who make this event possible, especially our long-time presenting sponsor, Miller Lite in addition to our premiere sponsors, Johnson Financial Group, KS Energy Services, Husch Blackwell, West Bend Mutual and our media sponsors WISN 12, 88Nine Radio Milwaukee and Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. 100% of dollars raised through the UPAF Ride for the Arts, including registrations, fundraising, and sponsorships, directly support UPAF Performing Arts Members, representing the best of music, dance, song and theater in Eastern Wisconsin.
About UPAF
The United Performing Arts Fund (UPAF) has been setting the stage since 1967 by providing critical investment in our region’s vibrant performing arts scene. UPAF’s mission is to secure community resources, promote the performing arts as a regional asset and improve the quality of life through responsible investment in and financial support of the performing arts in Eastern Wisconsin. UPAF proudly bears Charity Navigator’s highest distinction for nonprofits – a four-star rating – and is the No. 1 united arts fund in the country in terms of dollars raised.
UPAF works in partnership with its 14 Performing Arts Members and numerous Affiliates to ensure that all people have the opportunity to be inspired each year through performances, arts education and community partnerships. UPAF Cornerstone Members include First Stage, Florentine Opera Company, Milwaukee Ballet, Milwaukee Repertory Theatre, Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra and Skylight Music Theatre. Members include Bel Canto Chorus, Black Arts MKE, Danceworks, Milwaukee Chamber Theatre, Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra (MYSO), Next Act Theatre, Present Music and Renaissance Theaterworks.