It's here at last!
The snow has melted, the grass is green, and the smell of flowers is in the air. Yes indeed, summer has most definitely arrived! But what's even more exciting than the season change is the increased flow of chrome-and leather-loving bike enthusiasts into the area. This can mean only one thing, the ever-popular Laconia Bike Week is once again upon us.
Each year an average of 350,000 people travel from near and far to attend what has become one of the most popular events in the area. Motorcycle lovers and bike fans from all over the world crowd into a town only three square miles in size. The enjoyment of the races, sights, sounds, and freedom of a motorcyclist's life is enough to keep people coming back for more. This event has been a New Hampshire annual tradition since 1923.
Laconia Bike Week is the oldest and one of the largest running motorcycle rallies in America. Over the years, time has created some changes. The motorcycle races used to be held at the Belknap Recreation area in Gilford. Motorcycle clubs would dress alike in costume and participate in a bike parade throughout the Lakes Region.
These days, more people attend Laconia Bike Week than ever before and the races are now held at New Hampshire International Speedway in Loudon. There is still a parade, but now the bikes line up and down Weirs Beach, and the bikers' costumes definitely don't match! They have become a bit outrageous in style, but one thing has always remained the same. If you love motorcycles and a free-spirited environment, Laconia and Weirs Beach have always been the places to be.
The nine day long events continue in tradition again this year with even more events and recreation than ever before. Over 375,000 bikers are expected to attend and among them motorcycle gangs like Hells Angels, Pagans, Devil Disciples, and Iron Horsemen will return for the festivities.
If you are into bikes (as in Motorcycles) and have never attended New Hampshire Bike Week, make the trip to New Hampshire for an experience you are guaranteed to never forget.
