Midnight Classic

The Midnight Classic is an annual non-competitive bike ride in Memphis, Tennessee. The ride begins at midnight and travels through East Memphis, Midtown and Central Gardens. Currently in its 13th year, the race is the largest cycling tour in the Memphis area. More than 1,000 people attended the 2012 race, which took place on August 25th. The event charged preregistration fees ranging from $20-$40, which included a buffet after the race (which most finished around 2am). The fastest time is 59 minutes and 51 seconds.

The event is preceded by the Lunar Festival, which begins at 10 p.m. and runs throughout The Bike tour. The festival includes food provided by vendors like Dunkin Donuts, music by local artists, and booths from various bike shops in Memphis. Proceeds from both the Lunar Festival and the bike tour itself benefit Meritian, a Memphis-based non-profit providing health and child placement services.

Participants in the tour are allowed to ride in the road, and both Memphis police and Midnight Classic volunteers act to divert traffic, providing cyclists with empty roads and clear paths for the entire 17 mile ride. There are also several "rest stops" along the ride, which are gas stations with food and drinks available.

After the event, a buffet is arranged and all riders are able to eat "traditional" Memphis foods, including Memphis barbecue, local fruits from the Memphis Farmers Market, and various pastries (including donuts and croissants). Trophies are also awarded to the "largest organized group of people" at the event, the person with the "best costume", and the "best bicycle decoration."