Carlyle's annual motorcycle celebration, Boogie Fest, will take over Carlyle on June 24 and 25 with people coming from near and far to take in a weekend of motorcycles and make some memories. The weekend is sure to be a hit once again, with events scheduled throughout Friday and Saturday. The 10th annual event will fill Lions Park with those who have a love for motorcycles, good times, and a whole lot of fun.
The weekend with kick off on Main Street on Friday at noon with a free lunch sponsored by Moose Mountain Mud and Equal Transport. Last year, more than 300 people took part in the scrumptious lunch. A ticket blitz will also take place with a chance to purchase one of the remaining 2,500 tickets for the 2002 Harley-Davidson Fat Boy. If last year was any indication, ticket sales will go quickly.
The event-filled day will continue with a barbeque at 5:30 p.m. and events hosted by Cornerstone Family and Youth. Activities for children include kid's games, face painting, bouncers and concessions to help keep them busy. This will be followed by a live band at the Office Bar & Grill.
Saturday morning ensures a good start to the day with a pancake breakfast at Lions Park from 8 to 10 a.m. Sponsored by Crescent Point Energy Corp., the morning feast ensures that motorcyclists and visitors will have a hearty start to a busy day.
The poker derby will follow leaving at 11 a.m. on a new route this year, and concluding in Carlyle between 3:30 and 4:30 p.m. This year, destinations will include Virden, Maryfield and Kenosee. Last year, 75 registered drivers took part in the Poker Derby with an additional 30 or 40 joining in as the derby rolled out of town. A spectacular parade of bikes is sure to witnessed by many.
Supper will be provided by The Knights of Columbus at 5 p.m. with biker games starting at 6 p.m. The riders will showcase their handling skills, often with passengers on their bikes. At 9 p.m., grown-ups can partake in the dance with Tone Benders performing, while the kids can take in a Boogie Fest swim at the pool starting at 9 p.m. after the kids carnival. Needless to say, there are plenty of events for all ages.
The sky is scheduled to light up at dark, with a fireworks display sponsored by the Town of Carlyle. At 12 a.m., the much anticipated draw for the 2002 Harley Fat Boy motorcycle will take place.
The event is not only the largest motorcycle rally in the region, but it is also a fundraiser with funds from ticket sales, gate admission and fees going to the Carlyle and District Leisure Complex. Admission to the event is only $10 with the funds going to a worthy cause. Last year, more than 500 people attended the event breaking all previous records. Organizers this year hope to exceed that number!
