Leesburg’s annual Bikefest is officially just one day this year, but local bars, restaurants and other businesses will ensure there’s enough entertainment, food, and libations to fill an entire weekend for the thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts who descend upon the city starting Thursday.
Unlike past festivals, when big headline acts took the main stage in what was previously billed as the world’s largest three-day motorcycle and music event packed into 30 square blocks. this year’s event is scaled back as the group that puts it on – the Leesburg Partnership – deals with timing and financial issues stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic.
The 2020 event was cancelled, and Bikefest 2021 was pushed from April to November. Moving the festival back to its normal April spot on the calendar put the 2021 and 2022 events in the same fiscal year, cutting the amount of money available in the spring.
As a result, the official Bikefest 2022 will run from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday at the main stage, located at 501 W. Meadow St. Five bands will play starting at 10:30 a.m., including tribute bands performing the music of Tom Petty, Cinderella, Godsmack and Metallica. See the entertainment schedule.
Local venues are picking up the slack, however, and making it a four-day event that starts Thursday. Here’s a quick rundown:
Gator Harley-Davidson, 1745 U.S. 441 – It only makes sense that the local Harley dealership is throwing the biggest party, with two bands each day, three full bars, food, and dozens of performance and merchandise vendors. Motorcycle parking is free.
Frank’s Place, 201 N. 1st St. – The downtown pub will have live music Saturday afternoon and evening.
Great Chicago Fire, 311 W. Magnolia St. – The brewery and tap room is already a familiar spot for local bikers, as it hosts Bike Night on the second Thursday of every month. During Bikefest there will be live music during the evening Thursday through Saturday and on Sunday afternoon.
Windy Acres Festivities, 1236 Miller Blvd., Fruitland Park – About 20 acres is available on this working hay field for primitive camping starting Wednesday. RVs are welcome (no hookups). Cost is $20 per person per night for campers, and $10 for day passes. Food trucks and beverages available for purchase. Live music from 7 to 11 p.m. Thursday through Saturday. For information, call 352-643-1638.
McCracken’s Irish Pub, 719 W. Main St. – The veteran-owned business is still under construction but is teaming up with Combat Veterans to Careers to offer a full outdoor bar – including Jameson – on Saturday. They’ll be serving until 10 p.m. and will have a food truck and live music. Located across the street from the Orange Avenue motorcycle parking lot.
The Warehouse, 312 S. 2nd St. – The 501(c)(3) nonprofit social club is officially known as the Military Fire Police Support Association. The Warehouse will host two bands each day Thursday through Saturday, with a food truck from 5 to 10 p.m. Friday and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday.
Lake Square Mall, 10401 U.S. Hwy. 441 – The mall will host the inaugural Bikers and Bikinis Fashion Show at 1 p.m. Saturday on the Center Court stage. The show will feature fashion from Gator Harley, JCagua Swimwear and stores inside the mall.
The Brick and Barrel, 209 W. Main St. – The downtown bar and restaurant has live music on Fridays and Saturdays to go with their American food menu.
