DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — The engines are roaring and the bikes are rolling in as thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts gather in Daytona Beach for the 34th annual Biketoberfest.
The four-day event brings riders to the World’s Most Famous Beach for motorcycles, live music and events — and provides a major boost for local businesses.
On Main Street, the sound of motorcycles signals one of the busiest times of the year for merchants.
“Bike Week and Biketoberfest, those are like our absolutely best times of the year,” said Laura Humphreys of Humphreys & Sons Jewelers.
Humphreys said the events give the shop an opportunity to make sales that help carry the business through slower periods. Popular items include motorcycle-inspired jewelry and pieces featuring skulls.
“It’s bike chain bracelets, pieces with skulls,” Humphreys said.
The crowds also create opportunities for temporary vendors and workers looking to make extra money during the event.
“It’s guaranteed money. I don’t really have to put too much of myself out there to try and find it with a lot of effort because events like this, all you gotta say is, ‘Hey, I am willing to work.’ Hey, all right, come here,” said Shane Miller.
With large crowds filling streets and businesses, law enforcement is focused on keeping traffic moving and people safe. Volusia County deputies and Daytona Beach police are targeting traffic safety concerns, including speeding, reckless driving and impaired driving.
In busy areas such as Main Street and Midtown, officers are using barricades and strategic positioning to help manage traffic and protect pedestrians.
Daytona Beach police also told Channel 9 that plainclothes officers and undercover officers are working during the event.
For longtime merchants, Biketoberfest is about more than sales. It’s also an opportunity to reconnect with visitors who return year after year.
“We absolutely love the people that come in here. We call it like a family reunion,” Humphreys said.
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