The idea for this show came about when Clear Channel Entertainment and Curtis Media Group approached Ray Price Harley-Davidson to come up with a way to increase attendance at Alltel Pavilion (now the Time Warner Cable Pavilion at Walnut Creek). Merging the show with concerts at the Pavilion was a huge success.

The idea was to develop North Carolina’s first downtown motorcycle rally. The city of Raleigh, Curtis Media Group, and Ray Price Harley-Davidson made it all happen. This rally has grown every year with more than 100,000 attendees in 2012. As stated on their website, the Bikefest was awarded with the 2013 Dealernews Top 100 Merit Award for Best Event.

Along with providing free entertainment in a relaxed atmosphere, it also included multiple bands, stunt shows and a great time for all. The rally also raises money for local nonprofits such as the USO-NC and the North Carolina National Guard.

Even with the threat of rain for the weekend, the attendance Saturday was incredible. The events went along smoothly and the rain gods were kind enough to keep everything dry.