HOLLAND, Mich. — Largely missing from the lakeshore this weekend was the thunderous sounds of thousands of motorcycles for the annual Lakeshore Blessing of the Bikes.
No, it wasn't the rainy weather that canceled the gathering that usually welcomes large groups of bikers to the Ottawa County fairgrounds in Holland.
"Over the years we have weathered rain, sleet, snow, COVID-19, but gun violence toward any of our guests is not acceptable," organizers said on Facebook.
Before noon on Friday, organizers announced the Sunday event would be called off this year. Then Sunday afternoon, the event Facebook page said they "received a call from the Ottawa County Sheriff's Office that the FBI reported that they are confident that there is a credible risk of violence at the 2024 Lakeshore Blessing of the Bikes."
That's why organizers decided to call off the gathering.
"We already had vendors, sponsors, shirts, pins and patches, a band and of course two great nonprofits, Lakeshore Life Works and Children's Advocacy Center-Holland," the page said.
"Please keep watching our Facebook page and website to order shirts, pins, and patches of the Lakeshore Blessing of the Bikes and for ways for you to contribute to these nonprofits."
Over the past 21 years, bikers and their families have helped raise more than $200,000 for West Michigan charities during this event, organizers said.
The lakeshore celebrates warmer weather returning and the event encourages a safe start to riding season.
Organizers hope to have the event next year.
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