A few years ago, I was hangin' in Ybor and noticed (or, really, tried hard not to gawk at) what seemed to be an overabundance of bikers who were parked along the streets, riding up and down Seventh Avenue, and pretty much having a raucous good time everywhere you looked. I didn't know it then but I was witnessing Bike Fest, a weekend celebration of bikers, bikes and anything associated with the biking community.
The event has maintained its name but, due to its growing popularity, all of the daytime festivities take place at the Florida State Fairgrounds beginning at 4 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 10. The Faces of Courage Benefit Ride & Illuminated Night Parade departs from the fairgrounds at 9 p.m. and makes its way to Ybor City in a glowing procession that should definitely be a sight to behold. Proceeds from the registration fees go to Faces of Courage, an organization benefiting children and families affected by cancer.
The rest of the weekend presents a mind-boggling assortment of activities. On Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 11 and 12, the festivities begin at 10 a.m. at the fairgrounds. Saturday, visitors can peruse assorted booths, enjoy continuous live entertainment at any of three stages, participate in biker games set up for children and adults, check out some dangerous feats performed by human cannonball Ermes Zamperla, and take part in one of the numerous eating contests, of which the foods are hot dogs, spaghetti, apple pie, ice cream or wings.
Sunday marks the return of the Poker Run and if you're interested in trying your luck, you can register up until noon, when the run actually begins. The winner is announced at 5 p.m. and claims a 50/50 winning of the earnings and, of course, a nice, shiny trophy.
You don't really have to be a biker to enjoy the festivities — hell, you don't even have to like motorcycles. Really, all you need is an open mind, a desire to help a worthy cause, and the ability to have a good time. For more information and/or a complete list of happenings (we couldn't include them all), go to www.yborcitybikefest.com or call 813-248-0721. Florida State Fairgrounds, 4800 U.S. 301 N., Tampa.
This article appears in Sep 8-14, 2004.