CCC Champagne Season Opener Ride
Chicago Cycling Club's annual spring season opener — 30 miles north to Plaza del Lago in Wilmette, celebrated with champagne. A beloved CCC tradition since the club's early days.
The vibe
Spring bubbles, open roads
Every spring, Chicago Cycling Club marks the return of riding season the right way: 30 miles north to Plaza del Lago on the Wilmette/Evanston border, where champagne is waiting. The Champagne Season Opener is one of those club traditions that’s survived decades because the format is impossible to argue with — a beautiful lakefront ride, a festive finish, and the collective exhale of winter being behind you.
The route heads north out of the city, skirting Lake Michigan through Evanston and onward to the plaza. It’s not a hammer ride; it’s a celebration. The pace accommodates a wide range of riders, and the post-ride champagne turns strangers into regulars. Led by Steve Kramer, the ride sets a social tone for the entire season.
Date varies by year — watch the CCC events calendar in late March for the announcement. Membership required to participate.