MUSCATINE, Iowa – The City of Muscatine will temporarily close Weed Park starting at 5 a.m. on Sunday, May 24, as preparations get underway for the 46th running of the Melon City Criterium / Charlie Harper Memorial. Organized by the Melon City Bike Club and Harper’s Cycling & Fitness, the annual race brings elite cyclists and spectators from across the region for one of Memorial Day weekend’s signature sporting events.
“We’re proud to carry on this Muscatine tradition that honors both our love of cycling and the legacy of Charlie Harper,” said Greg Harper, owner of Harper’s Cycling & Fitness. “It’s a celebration of community, competition, and summertime in Iowa.”
City staff and race volunteers are preparing to welcome athletes, families and visitors for a high-energy day in one of Muscatine’s most iconic parks.
“Events like the Melon City Criterium showcase the best of Muscatine – community spirit, active living, and our beautiful public spaces,” said Rich Klimes, Parks and Recreation Director. “We appreciate everyone’s cooperation with park closures and traffic changes as we host this unique event.”
More than a race, the Melon City Criterium has become a celebration of Muscatine’s heritage, outdoor recreation and the community that gathers each year to cheer riders through the park’s fast, technical course.
Traffic and safety information
To ensure a safe race environment:
- Weed Park closure – Vehicle access will close at 5:00 a.m. Sunday at both Park Drive and Colorado Street entrances.
- No-parking zones – Parking is prohibited on Hillcrest Avenue, Oakland Drive or the alley from Hillcrest to Park Drive.
- Reopening time – Weed Park is expected to reopen at approximately 6:00 p.m. Sunday.
Safety reminders for residents and spectators
- Move parked vehicles from restricted areas to avoid interference with the course.
- Keep pets secured and remind children to stay clear of the race route for cyclists’, and their own, safety.
Race schedule and course details
- Racing begins at 8:30 a.m.
- Events include a 4-mile junior race and an 11-mile race on a 1.23-mile loop around Weed Park.
- The start/finish line is near the playground at Parkington Drive and Park Drive.
Part of a larger racing weekend
The Melon City Criterium is one of four events making up the Iowa Memorial Weekend Cycling Classic, joining:
- Friday Night Fever (May 22) – Burlington, IA
- Snake Alley Criterium (May 23) – Burlington, IA
- Quad Cities Criterium (May 25) – Village of East Davenport, IA
For more information, visit the Melon City Bike Club’s website or contact the City of Muscatine.
Corner marshals needed
Corner marshals are needed for the 2026 Melon City Criterium to be held at Weed Park in Muscatine on Sunday, May 26th. Corner marshals are key to a safe and exciting criterium. Their responsibility is to keep the race course free of vehicles and assist observers in safely crossing the race course.
Here is a map of the various corner marshal posts along the route. Please volunteer to monitor a post during one of the three shifts noted below. You must be a Melon City Bike Club member.
Visit the Melon City Bike Club’s website for details on how to sign up to be a corner marshal or how to join the Melon City Bike Club.
