1000 x 90

Bikers Return to the High Country Fairgrounds Tomorrow for the Summer Boone Bike Rally

by Madison V. Fisler

May 30, 2013. The day that so many throughout the high country and the rest of the south has been waiting for is almost here. The 2013 Spring Boone Bike Rally starts tomorrow! 

On May 31 and June 1, the bikers will be taking over the High Country Fairgrounds. This rally, which will mark the fourth rally to date, is expected to draw over 2,500 participants. 

The fall rally last year enjoyed numbers well over 2,500. This year, it is hoped that the weather cooperates so this can be the biggest and best rally yet. And it looks like the bikers might get their wish. 

Boone Bike Rally 1According to local weather service RaysWeather.com, the weather is expected to be beautiful, with sunny skies and temperatures reaching highs in the upper 70s. Though some rain could be possible, the rally should be in good shape for some good times in the sun.

The Boone Bike Rally was started as a way to bring bikers into the high country. The Blue Ridge Parkway, which draws people from all across the nation for scenic drives and rides, is an experience that cannot be found anywhere else.

“I wanted to start this because we are looking for different events to bring people into the Boone area, it helps the local economy,” said Johnson. “The people that come to the rally stay in local hotels, eat at local restaurants. Eventually, I think that it can lead to a lot more people coming to ride in Boone.”

And this event doesn’t just draw locals. People come from as far as Florida and Mississippi to see the vendors, hear the music and have a great time. For many, the ride through the mountains to get to the rally is half the fun.

Participants should expect a good time with plenty of things to do this year. 

“This year there will be live rock n’ roll music, ‘traditional’ biker games, vendors and a really good time,” said Kenny Johnson, who coordinated the event. 

boone bike rally 10The music line up this year includes Throwdown Jones, Pine Top Lightning, Part Time Blues Band, Dice, The JJL Band and Problem Child – a tribute to ACDC.

Events at the rally will include vendor and swap meets, a guided ride, dunking booths, bike games, baby oil wrestling, a burnout pit competition, a wet t-shirt contest and more. Many competitions offer prizes to the winners, so bring the best you’ve got!

Participants are welcome to camp out overnight at the fairgrounds. Weekend passes are $30, Friday passes are $15 and Saturday passes are $25. The cost for camping at the High Country Fairgrounds is $10, however there are no more available electric and water hookups for campers.

Looking forward, guests should also anticipate the annual fall Boone Bike Rally over Labor Day weekend. 

For more information about this event, click here.

Check out these photos from the last Boone Bike Rally:

boone bike rally 10

boone bike rally 9

boone bike rally 6

boone bike rally 5

boone bike rally 4

boone bike rally 3