You don’t need to own or ride a motorcycle to enjoy the four-day Lone Star Rally held annually in Galveston, TX. From November 1-4, 2012, I attended this four-day event, which attracted approximately 400,000 bikers to the Galveston shores. For starters, free concerts entertain on three stages, including a spectacular show by Bret Michaels on Friday night where he was awarded the key to the City of Galveston.
Hundreds of food and merchandise vendors line the streets and I found the goods extremely reasonably priced. For the bike connoisseurs and enthusiasts, custom American built bikes and Harley’s are plenty and more than the eyes can take in. Being the largest of bike rallies in the State of Texas, you can visit with the nation’s top celebrity bike builders, which are on hand to showcase their incredible designs. I stopped to watch as someone was getting custom LED’s installed under a tent- very cool indeed!
A notable highlight was the opportunity to meet and hang out VIP-Style with Charlie Hunnam who plays “Jax” on the FX show “Sons of Anarchy”. Being a fan of the show, I was eager to meet him in the flesh. Although he was late and the organizers struggled to keep schedule, my friend and I finally got our time with him. He graciously signed a poster, two jackets and posed for a few pictures with me. We chatted a little, then mingled and enjoyed some appetizers in the VIP lounge. That encounter alone seemed well worth my 4-hour drive from Austin, Texas.
Being ignorant with all things bike-related does not take away from the beauty and uniqueness of these wild-looking “rides”. The owners proudly took turns parading down the blocked-off streets while pedestrians take pictures and cheered them on. Everyone was very friendly, even going as far as inviting us for a ride (which we graciously declined). Many officers patrol the streets and we didn’t witness any issues despite being over-crowded with people and vehicles. We chose to eat dinner at Willie G’s and received great food and service.
Galveston has been hosting the Lone Star Rally for 11 years now and I certainly got the impression that this city was prepared and grateful to everyone who made the trek for the event. Galveston has been hosting the Lone Star Rally for 11 years now and I certainly got the impression that this city was well prepared and grateful to everyone who made the trek for the event.
Unfortunately 1 biker lost his life when he lost control and went over the sea wall. 11 arrests were made for fighting or intoxication.Overall, enjoyed a great weekend getaway and another check mark on my bucket list.
