54th Baldwin Blessing of the Bikes Ride

Event date: 
Sun, 05/17/2026 - 7:00am

The Baldwin Blessing of the Bikes 2026 (The Original) – Baldwin Blessing Fest

Dates: May 14–17, 2026

Where: Downtown Baldwin, Michigan (along M-37) + Baldwin Municipal Airport area

City/Region: Baldwin, MI (Lake County)


The Baldwin Blessing of the Bikes isn’t just another motorcycle event—it’s Michigan’s originalBaldwin Blessing Fest, and in 2026 it marks the 54th Anniversary of a tradition that started in 1972 with 8 riders and 4 motorcycles gathering at St. Ann’s Catholic Church. Today, it’s one of the biggest weekends of the year in Lake County, drawing riders and visitors from around the country to kick off the riding season together.

What to Expect:
During Baldwin Blessing Fest weekend, the entire town feels like a motorcycle celebration. Downtown Baldwin fills up with bikes, people, and that “summer is finally here” energy—while the Blessing ceremony brings riders together for a safe-season sendoff.
• Downtown Baldwin marketplace on M-37 – vendors, food, and all-day browsing
• Thousands of motorcycles lining the main stretch through town
• Festival-style atmosphere with meetups, riding groups, and plenty of people-watching
• Family-friendly – riders, non-riders, and families all come to walk around and enjoy the day

The Blessing Ceremony (What Riders Come For). The highlight of the weekend is the Blessing of the Bikes—traditionally held on Sunday at the Baldwin Municipal Airport area. In recent years, gates have opened in the morning and the blessing ceremony has taken place in the early afternoon. A small per-bike donation has commonly been collected at the airport gate to help support event operations and local veterans’ efforts. Tip: If you want the full experience, plan to enjoy downtown Baldwin first, then head to the airport area for the blessing.

Why This Event Is a Big Deal in Michigan? The Baldwin Blessing is one of those rare motorcycle weekends that still feels authentic: it’s a real town, a real tradition, and a real gathering of riders from every background—cruisers, touring bikes, baggers, customs, classics, and everything in between. It’s the kind of event where you’ll see bikes you’ve never seen in person, meet people you’ll end up talking to for 20 minutes, and leave feeling like the season just officially started.
Planning Tips (So You Don’t Miss the Best Parts)
• Arrive early if you want easier parking and the best vendor browsing
• Wear comfortable shoes – you’ll do more walking than you think
• Bring cash – it’s the easiest way to buy from vendors and support local booths
• Expect big crowds – Baldwin is a small town and this is its biggest weekend
• Be patient in town – traffic control and temporary closures can happen during peak hours

Official Organizer (Event Operations)

The Lake County Chamber of Commerce is the official organizer of the Baldwin Blessing Fest, working with local partners, the village, public safety teams, and veteran organizations to keep the weekend running smoothly.

Mark your calendar: May 14–17, 2026

Event name: The Baldwin Blessing of the Bikes 2026 (Baldwin Blessing Fest – The Original)

5/14-5/17
Baldwin Blessing

895 Michigan Ave Suite C, Baldwin, MI 49304

Lake County Chamber of Commerce

Ride duration 7 hours.

KSU is subject to change.  Stay tuned for more information!

Your Road Captains for this riade will be: TBD

Closed Event: Chapter activities are conducted primarily for the benefit of H.O.G. Chapter members. Closed Events are those events open to Chapter members and one guest per member.  All guests must sign an event release. Be aware, all rides and events are subject to change or cancellation due to weather or other circumstances beyond our control.

Impairment Policy: The consumption and use of alcohol is a serious personal responsibility involving the safety of family, riding friends and the individual HOG member. Alcohol consumption before or during a motorcycling activity is not safe, responsible behavior. Capitol Area Chapter #4668 does not allow the use of alcohol or drugs before or during a riding event* and does not furnish alcohol at Chapter rides. Riders whose skills are observed or suspected to be impaired by alcohol or drugs before riding cannot join the ride. Riders using alcohol or drugs while riding will be asked to leave the ride. It is the responsibility of each Template Chapter member to support the consistent enforcement of this policy

Photography Policy: Photographing, filming, recording and videotaping of activities and events will be occurring Capitol Area Chapter events. By entering the H.O.G.® event area, you irrevocably grant permission to the Harley-Davidson Motor Company® and its agents to photograph, film, record and/or videotape you and use (and authorize the use of) your name, image, likeness, voice, and/or biographical or other information in any and all media now known or hereinafter developed in perpetuity for any and all purposes.

Event Coordinator: 
Troy "T-DUB" Willard
Head Road Captain

[email protected]