BikeFest 2022 expected to bring 125,000 motorcyclists to the Lake of the Ozarks

LAKE OF THE OZARKS, Mo. (KMIZ)

Lake of the Ozarks BikeFest Rally 2022 is expected to bring in 125,000 bikers to the area during the five-day-long event.

Bikefest began on Wednesday and will continue through Sunday. The event spans three counties, including Camden County, Miller County and Morgan County.

Heather Brown, executive director with the Lake of the Ozarks Convention and Visitor Bureau, said the event has grown tremendously since its creation in 2006.

"Of course, it started small, and it's grown over the years to what it is now," Brown said.

Brown said the event boosters the economy during the otherwise start of the lake's slow season.

Brown said riders usually stay throughout the entirety of the event, and it has become one of the largest economic events the Lake area hosts.

"It's a multi-million dollar economic impact for our community," Brown said."It's huge, so through the lodging, they're going to eat, they're going to drink."

Brown said the event fills up the community and hotels across the area are sold out. She says anyone still looking to come out for the event will likely have to find lodging outside of the county.

Local business owner and motorcyclist, Lance Cartwright says he attends the event every year.

"Enjoying the festival here, there are lots of people, and it looks like there's going to be a good turnout this season," Curtwright said. He also says it's always a great place to meet new people.

Bill Apel made the trip from Iowa this year to attend the event.

"Glad to be here. Met a lot of fine brothers," Apel said.

Apel added that he is grateful everybody made it to the event safe and he is happy to support local businesses this weekend.

Local businesses started the annual event in 2006 for riders to explore the Lake of the Ozarks. Thousands of motorcyclists from across the United States head to the Lake for the event.

Bikefest festivities include:

• Over 300+ Bars and Restaurants
• Over 50 Live Music and Entertainment Shows
• Harley Davidson Bike Giveaway
• Bike Builders
• Vending areas

The event will continue through Sunday. Brown asks that drivers in the area keep an eye out for motorcyclists on the roads.