Making Wishes Come True

Hot Harley Nights

Making wishes come true for 21 years!

Since that very first event 21 years ago, Hot Harley Nights has been bringing people together in support of Make-a-Wish(R) South Dakota, and has raised over 2.5 million dollars in the process. The event features a  motorcycle parade that begins at J & L Harley Davidson and travels through town eventually reaching downtown. This years event ran from July 7th to July 10th with many family friendly activities at various locations throughout Sioux Falls. 

 

While many people choose to watch the parade at locations other than downtown, many like me prefer to be right in the thick of things. To get a good spot it is a good idea to head down at least an hour before the parade starts. I got there an hour early and as you can see by the above photo I wasn't the only one.

 By a half hour before the parade the street was pretty well lined. Police officers lead the parade blocking intersections so that the parade could pass through.

They were followed by motorcycles bearing the US Flag.

 Then came cars with the Wish children.

And the parade was officially in full swing. Not to disappoint the crowd there was even a teddy bear wish float pulled by a motorcycle

It was obvious from the many fun accessories that the riders wanted to contribute to making the parade extra fun for the viewers.

Of course what would Hot Harley Nights be without Harley's. Don't worry there were tons of them!

 There were sidecars!

 There were choppers!

Sport bikes!

 And trikes!

 Cruisers!

 Police Bikes!

 Mopeds!

 and even itty bitty mini bikes!

 But wait, that's not all.

There were quad-runners!

 Golf carts!

and even a T- bucket!

 With such a variety in the parade some observers decided to add their own unique spice to the parade.

This kind snake charmer even granted a few wishes himself. Below he assists a Bride who has asked if her photographer can get a few photos of the happy couple with his snake. I was a bit jealous because I really wanted to be that photographer. Instead I settled on a few behind the scene bystander shots which I posted on my photo blog here.

 Needless to say there were many smiling faces

 and a great showing of pride.

As this spectators shirt reminds us, we should strive for greatness. I believe Hot Harley Nights has done just that. 

Today I am sharing this wonderful event with Unknown Mami's Sunday In My City.