New Hampshire’s biggest motorcycle event is gearing up for another massive year as the 103rd Laconia Motorcycle Week returns from Saturday, June 13 through Sunday, June 21, 2026.
Centered around Weirs Beach and the Lakes Region, the rally draws hundreds of thousands of riders each year. Visitors can expect scenic rides, races, concerts, and motorcycle culture. Widely recognized as the oldest motorcycle rally in the United States, the event has become a summer tradition in New Hampshire for more than a century.
A Rally With More Than 100 Years of History
Laconia Motorcycle Week traces its roots back to 1916, when early motorcycle enthusiasts gathered in the Lakes Region. Over time, the gatherings evolved into one of the most recognized motorcycle rallies in the country. The event officially became associated with organized racing and hill climbs in the early decades of the 20th century, helping establish the culture that still defines the rally today.
Today, the rally stretches across Laconia, Meredith, Loudon, Weirs Beach, and surrounding towns throughout the Lakes Region. Organizers estimate annual attendance at more than 300,000 visitors.
What Visitors Can Expect
Motorcycle Week is far more than a single event. Throughout the nine day rally, riders can participate in organized rides, motorcycle races, live entertainment, demo rides, stunt shows, vendor expos, bike shows, and nightlife events.
Weirs Beach remains the heart of the rally, where Lakeside Avenue fills with motorcycles, food vendors, merchandise tents, and live music nearly around the clock.
Popular gathering spots include:
The NASWA Resort
High Octane Saloon
Laconia Harley-Davidson
New Hampshire Motor Speedway
Gunstock Mountain Resort
Many venues host concerts, bike nights, custom motorcycle showcases, and manufacturer demo rides throughout the week.
Major Events During Motorcycle Week
Peter Makris Memorial Ride
The official kickoff to the rally takes place Saturday, June 13, with the Peter Makris Memorial Ride. The scenic charity ride loops around Lake Winnipesaukee before ending with a celebration at the NASWA Resort. The annual ride honors Peter Makris, a longtime Lakes Region businessman and supporter of Motorcycle Week.
Loudon Classic at NHMS
One of the biggest attractions of the week is the Loudon Classic motorcycle race weekend at New Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon.
The 103rd Annual Loudon Classic runs June 19–21 and features professional motorcycle road racing, vintage racing, vendors, camping, and demo rides. The race itself is considered one of the oldest and most prestigious motorcycle road races in the United States.
Hill Climb Competitions
Hill climbs remain one of the rally’s most recognizable traditions.
The Tower Street Hill Climb is scheduled for Tuesday during the rally, followed by the AMA sanctioned Pro Am Hill Climb at Gunstock Mountain Resort on Wednesday. These events feature riders attempting steep dirt climbs in front of large crowds.
Vintage Racing and Exhibitions
Vintage motorcycle fans can also expect classic bike displays and historic racing exhibitions throughout the week, including U.S. Classic Racing Association events and vintage showcases near Weirs Beach.
Scenic Riding Throughout New Hampshire
Part of what makes Laconia Motorcycle Week unique is its location. Riders often spend the week exploring New Hampshire’s scenic roads, including routes around Lake Winnipesaukee, the White Mountains, and the Kancamagus Highway.
The Lakes Region becomes especially busy during the rally, with motorcycles traveling through towns including Meredith, Gilford, Wolfeboro, and Center Harbor.
Plan Your Trip Today
To plan your trip, visitors can explore the official Laconia Motorcycle Week website, the New Hampshire Motor Speedway event page, and local venue schedules throughout the Lakes Region. Riders are encouraged to book lodging early and review daily event calendars ahead of the rally, as many attractions and concerts fill up quickly during the week.
