SARASOTA – The Suncoast Music and Motorcycle Festival is returning to the Sarasota Fairgrounds with some changes to help keep people safe during the pandemic.
“What’s critical for us is to be able to hold this festival, raise some money, but still keep it safe,” said Suncoast Charities for Children Executive Director, Lucy Nicandri.
Thunder by the Bay is returning in February, however, new safety measures will be in place.
“You’ll see some changes when people would come and want to sit in front of the stage because it is a music and motorcycle festival, we’re going to have squares that’ll be assigned that you can come and go but they’ll be marked, they’ll be marked walkways so that social distancing can be insured because we want to protect the attendees, our sponsors, our vendors,” said Nicandri.
Nicandri says Thunder by the Bay is a big source of revenue for Suncoast Charities for Children
“When the virus started in March it severely impacted our fundraising because 100 percent of our revenues come from special events, so this is a big one,” said Nicandri.
Southern Rock Band, Molly Hatchet is scheduled to perform as the festivals featured headliner
“But you’ll hear some country, you’ll hear some blues, you’ll hear some classic rock, there’s something for everyone,” said Nicandri.
The festival will also include a “United We Ride- America Strong” charity motorcycle ride
“Where bikes will all come and register and then ride united to the fairgrounds, hopefully carrying flags and supporting patriotism and saluting our veterans and active-duty military as well,” said Nicandri.
“Even if you’re not into motorcycling, we want you to come out, there’s going to be great music, great food, a lot to see, and some new things this year,” said Nicandri.
Thunder by the Bay has added a COVID-19 informational page on their website outlining and updating safety measures that will be in place during the event.
Thunder by the Bay is scheduled for February 19th through the 21st.
For more information on Thunder by the Bay, you can visit their website.