Arizona Bike Week April 5-9 at WestWorld
When we start to hear that low rumble each spring, long-time Valley residents know that it’s not the sound of an early monsoon season, it’s time for Arizona Bike Week! Tens of thousands of bikers will roll into town in early April to celebrate their shared passion for two wheel touring.
Arizona Bike Week is a five day event, held annually at WestWorld of Scottsdale but the festivities surrounding this event encompass the entire Phoenix area. Retailers, restaurants, bars and lodging accommodations, all roll out the red carpet to welcome this diverse group of enthusiasts.
At first glance the attendees of ABW may look a little rough around the edges. However, if you spend a few minutes chatting with some of them, you’ll find that they just might be the most kind-hearted, fun-loving group you’ve ever encountered. The charity rides and fundraisers that go on during the event result in hundreds of thousands of dollars in donations to a variety of worthy foundations, ranging from the Phoenix Children’s Hospital, to breast cancer charities.
What started as a small gathering of local supporters has quickly grown into one of the five largest motorcycle rallies in the country. This isn’t too surprising, considering the endless scenic riding terrain, amazing spring weather and boundless shopping, dining and entertainment options we have to offer. Visitors from across the country and around the world look forward to their annual pilgrimage to ABW. Most of the folks riding in have had some pretty nasty winter weather and look forward to the warm greeting Arizona provides, with our beautiful deserts in full bloom.
This year marks the 21st annual event and includes such an immense variety of activities, even non-riders flock to the party to join in on the fun. No need to worry that you’ll feel awkward arriving on four wheels. You’ll discover everyone who participates in ABW eager to offer up their hospitality and an introduction into the biker lifestyle. There are hundreds of vendors, offering a wide array of goods and services, stunt shows, contests, games, live entertainment, racing, auctions, safe riding and precision skills demos and each night ends with a concert. One of the many passions most members of the riding community share is a love of music and the on-site concert venue, The RockYard, never fails to deliver incredible shows delivered by some of the greatest rock legends of all time. Past performers at ABW include ZZ Top, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, Social Distortion, Buckcherry, Heart, Big and Rich, REO Speedwagon, Stone Temple Pilots, Doobie Brothers, just to name a few. All of this is incorporated into one low ticket price. A five day pass to Arizona Bike Week, including the nightly concerts, costs less than what you would expect to pay to see any one of these huge national acts. If you’re not ready for a multi-day commitment, no problem, single day passes are available as well. WestWorld offers a clean, safe, friendly environment for all to enjoy and kids under 12 get in free. If you’re looking for a little more than just a typical spring festival, check out Arizona Bike Week. You’ll be glad you did and will surely want to add it to your annual calendar of “things to do”.
For more information on Arizona Bike Week, go to http://azbikeweek.com/
