Riding enthusiasts agree that some of the best motorcycling in America is in the Ozarks. In fact, Roadrunner Magazine has named the Ozark Mountain region around Mountain View as one of the top 10 riding destinations in America.
Built on that simple premise, a festival was organized 18 years ago with no budget and dependent on volunteers. The first event drew about 350 motorcyclists. Now, thousands of bikers are expected to this annual event.
The 18th annual Mountains Music and Motorcycles will be held Aug. 19, 20, and 21 in downtown Mountain View.
Organizers say visitors to the event, which is open to all ages and free, will be able to take part in a variety of activities.
“This annual event is a favorite of many people — it’s good family fun and a very relaxed atmosphere,” said Rianna Kendrick, event chair and Mountain View Area Chamber of Commerce director. “We are always pleased to have the bikes back to Mountain View. This event means a great deal to the community and the charities it supports.”
Friday events will include shopping on the square with local merchants and vendors; a contest of the loudest pipes; and a pie eating contest. A charity poker run is scheduled to start at 10 a.m. And live music featuring Tripping Nicky will start at 7 p.m. downtown.
Saturday events will kick off at 8 a.m. with the start of a Motorcycle Poker Run and Car Show. Opening ceremonies will be held at 10 a.m. There will also be a cornhole tournament, a pepper eating contest, a beard contest, and biker games, a crowd favorite.
“We end the evening on Saturday with two more high-energy bands: Eddie Haskell Project, a returning favorite, and a new band, Lynard Skynard Tribute Band,” Kendrick said. “Both of these groups continue the tradition of having great, crowd-pleasing bands playing free to the public on the square.”
Mountains Music and Motorcycles is still operated and managed by volunteers. The Mountain View Chamber of Commerce sponsors this event and all funds raised pay for the event. It has been a major fundraiser for multiple charity groups through the years.
“We like to use the Poker Runs as a way to give back to the community,” Kendrick said. “This year’s charities will be RU4C and Camp 10:14, and Stone County Abuse Prevention.”
The event ends Sunday morning with biker church at the city park amphitheater.
Parking around the historic town square is restricted to motorcycles only during the event.
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