Laconia Motorcycle Week being held Aug. 22-30
Dubbed “the world’s oldest motorcycle rally,” the 97th Laconia Motorcycle Week is an AMA National Gypsy Tour stop being held Aug. 22-30, 2020 in scenic New Hampshire.
Organizers report that steps will be taken to protect riders because of the COVID-19 outbreak.
“The emphasis on this year’s Laconia Motorcycle Week will be on safety,” said Laconia Motorcycle Week Association Deputy Director Jennifer Anderson. “While we recognize that New Hampshire is faring remarkably better than most in this pandemic, many riders will be coming from out of state and we want to ensure the public we are taking every precaution to protect their safety, such as promoting the use of face masks when not riding, regular sanitizing of public surfaces by experts, Nano Coating Technologies LLC and planning for a toned-down version of our rally to minimize large gatherings. Expect lots of fun, food and, of course, riding but in a safe environment.”
Vendor booths will be limited to nonprofit organizations such as the Laconia Motorcycle Week Association, the VFW, Laconia Kiwanis Club and the Laconia Rotary Club. Attendees can expect to see fewer vendors on Lakeside Avenue but nearly all restaurants, bars and hotels will be in full operation and there will be plenty of events.
“Nearby New Hampshire Motor Speedway will host races all week long, capped off by the 97th Annual Loudon Classic, Aug. 28-30,” organizers said. “The Gypsy Tours and charity rides that attract hundreds are happening daily as well as entertainment at local establishments like the NASWA Resort, Patio Garden, Winnipesaukee Marketplace and Tower Hill Tavern.”
On Aug. 11, New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu issued Emergency Order No. 63 requiring face coverings for certain scheduled gatherings of 100 or more individuals, as part of the state’s efforts to respond to COVID-19.
Another emergency order, No. 52, requires restaurants and bars to follow COVID-19-related procedures.
“The Covid-19 pandemic has created unique circumstances for (liquor) licensees to navigate as they prepare for motorcycle week,” says New Hampshire Liquor Commission’s Chairman Joseph Mollica. “We want to inform all licensees of the guidelines as they relate to seating, capacity, mask-wearing and social distancing so we can ensure that everyone has a safe, successful and enjoyable week.”
For more information on visiting New Hampshire and the state’s guidelines relating to COVID-19 visit: visitnh.gov/covid19. For more information on Laconia Motorcycle Week visit laconiamcweek.com.