DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — With Biketoberfest kicking off Thursday, restaurants and businesses in Daytona Beach are gearing up to welcome visitors from all over the world.
It’s a time many business owners and county officials say they welcome.
“We know that as a community, this influx of visitors adds to our local economy,” said Lori Campbell Baker, director of the Daytona Beach Area Convention and Visitors Bureau. “So, the economic impact of having these folks here for our attractions, our restaurants, our museums, it just brings a lot of good dollars into the community, but also a lot of energy.”
The four-day motorcycle rally attracts motorcycle enthusiasts to Volusia County with beautiful Florida weather, live music, bike shows, motorcycle racing at Daytona International Speedway, and miles of scenic rides along the famous A1A, historic Main Street or the scenic loop.
At one live music venue, Main Street Station, manager Phaedra Lee is working hard to get everything ready for the Biketoberfest weekend.
“Main Street Station is ready for a lot of guests to visit us, and we’re ready to put on a great show,” said Lee. “We have premier entertainment. We’re a Main Street destination. We offer something different for everyone and I think we are ready to put on a great party.”
Operations Manager at Main Street Station in Daytona Beach Phaedra Lee says she is excited to welcome crowds during Biketoberfest kicking off tomorrow and running through this Sunday. Tune in to @MyNews13 to learn about the economic impact this event has on businesses. pic.twitter.com/T4OjB35q4f
— Massiel Leyva (@LeyvaMassiel) October 18, 2023
For 15 years, she has seen the economic impact this event brings to businesses in Daytona Beach as the revenue it generates funds events throughout the rest of the year.
“It’s a lot of motorcycle enthusiasts, but a lot of people too that just want to be part of the party and share the event,” said Lee.
According to the Daytona Beach Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, this weekend will bring in over 100,000 visitors to town, but they say it’s hard to estimate the exact number since it’s not a ticketed event.
“Biketoberfest for us generates 30% of our annual revenue … So we’re counting on Biketoberfest to sustain us," Lee said. "We’re kind of the slower season here in Daytona and we’re anticipating a large crowd. We look forward to it, trust me. And just hoping to have a safe event. Everybody drink responsibly. We have plenty of security and police protection along the street, so come on down.”
Biketoberfest runs Thursday through Sunday.
More information is available on the official event website, Biketoberfest.org, including a list of area events, concerts, demo rides, places to stay, top scenic rides, and more.