Thunder By the Bay - Sarasota Florida — Bikernet Blog

This year’s 17th Annual “Thunder By The Bay” Motorcycle Festival promises to once again be one Sarasota’s premier events kicking off the new year.

And the people came….

This year’s festival begins with a new sporting clay tournament on Thursday. Then on Friday a “Born To Be Wild” kickoff party featuring specialty whiskey, wine, craft beer, and cigar tastings will be held at The Francis ballroom downtown. On Saturday and Sunday, Main Street in downtown Sarasota is where you want to be for a downtown festival featuring live entertainment, lots of vendors, two bike shows, special guests, and a special Cruise For Cash motorcycle ride on Sunday morning offering $4,000 in cash prizes.

The Bands played….

Our thanks to the City of Sarasota, all of our generous sponsors, our volunteers, and to the many area motorcycle organizations for their continued help and support. Last year’s Festival generated an economic impact of $7.4 Million and 5,400 room nights. Thunder By The Bay recent won First Place in the Herald-Tribune’s Readers’ Choice poll as the best local fundraising event and was a finalist as one of the area’s best events in “Best of SRQ Local”.

The motorcycles sat patiently….

All net proceeds raised during Thunder By The Bay benefits Suncoast Charities for Children which provides support for special needs children, teens, adults and their families in the Sarasota area. This year promises to be bigger and better than ever, so ride safe and enjoy everything our Festival has to offer!

And everyone had a great time!