Motorcyclists ride in for camaraderie and charity at Thunder by the Bay

Some were dressed in leather jackets, and some in shorts and t-shirts, on Feb. 15. 

"We want it to be an event for everyone, not just if you ride a motorcycle, but the whole community," said Lucy Nicandri, executive director of Suncoast Charities for Children, regarding Thunder by The Bay Music & Motorcycle Festival.

The festival, held Feb. 14-16 at the Sarasota Fairgrounds, brings offerings including motorcycle stunts, wrestling matches and three headlining bands: Blue Oyster Cult, Grand Funk Railroad and Creed Fisher.

Sarasota's Tammy Fieber, who has been riding for over 20 years, finds a sense of community in the experience. 

"They come from all walks, and people that come from all over the United States come here," she said. "It's a beautiful event, because it's talking to people and finding out where they're from, what they do, and what got them on a motorcycle."

Nicandri said the festival, now in its 27th year, has raised close to $3 million since it began, with sponsorship higher than it was last year despite the impacts of three hurricanes.

Its profits are allocated through the organizations to the seven nonprofits it funds that serve children and adults with special needs.