Laconia Motorcycle Week celebrates 95th anniversary
Celebrating its 95th year in 2018, the Laconia Motorcycle Week, an AMA National Heritage Gypsy Tour, features fun, food, music and a chance to gather with more than 200,000 people who share a passion for riding.
The 2018 event is June 9-17 in Laconia, N.H.
Billed as the “World’s Oldest Motorcycle Rally,” Laconia began with a small gathering along Lake Weir in 1916.
“The 95th Anniversary of Laconia Motorcycle Week gives us an opportunity to look back at how far we’ve come from the rally’s original roots in 1916, but also reminds us to look to the future,” said Charlie St. Clair, executive director of Laconia Motorcycle Week. “Like all things, the motorcycle industry evolves over time, and rallies, as a whole, should be mindful of such changes and welcome the new, while honoring the legacy of the past.
“We look forward to continuing our countdown to 100, with new events, partnerships and action for all to enjoy,” he said.
One of the original experiences in motorcycling, gypsy tours are gatherings of riders from all over the country, converging upon a single destination. The AMA National Gypsy Tour brings like-minded riders together to enjoy the camaraderie of motorcycling, often in a location of particular beauty, historic significance and/or importance to the sport.
AMA Recreational Riding Manager Heather Wilson said Laconia Motorcycle Week is an important touchstone for motorcycle enthusiasts.
“Laconia Motorcycle Week provides everything that makes a motorcycling event worthwhile-beautiful scenery, plenty of vendors, great entertainment and a welcoming community,” Wilson said. “Laconia is an important part of the AMA National Gypsy Tour, which includes 15 events this year.”