DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – Bike Week has officially started and that means close to 400,000 people are expected to ride into Volusia and Flagler Counties over the next 10 days. There will be events happening all over the area.
The event brings together both returning riders and first timers from all over the world. Many told News 6 they love it even more each year.
“Just the atmosphere of the friends and the fellowship,” said Gary visiting from Atlanta.
[EXCLUSIVE: Become a News 6 Insider (it’s FREE) | PINIT! Share your photos]
Main Street in Daytona Beach is the hub for the event and gets packed quickly, which business owners on the strip look forward to every year.
“Even with the rain we’re seeing an increase in business from last year. If the weather is nice, it’ll be even better,” said Bobby Honeycutt, owner of Froggy’s Saloon.
According to Honeycutt, Bike Week and Biketoberfest help them keep the lights on. He said it takes weeks to prepare, which includes bumping up staff levels and hiring people for the week from all over the country.
“They look forward to this. It’s a boost in their income. Some even take vacation just to come here and make the money, especially the bartenders,” he said.
Law enforcement is all hands on deck this week, too.
[RELATED: Where do police expect Bike Week traffic congestion?]
Police Chief Jakari Young said they’ll have more lighting for the surrounding neighborhoods this year and officers all over the city.
“We also have our plainclothes folks out there monitoring any other groups that may come in town to try to wreak havoc or start any problems,” he said.
[SCHEDULE OF EVENTS: Welcome to 83rd Bike Week]
Get today’s headlines in minutes with Your Florida Daily: