Thousands of people from all over the region gathered in Laconia for the start of motorcycle week.

From the newer models to the antiques, Weirs Beach was lined with motorcycles as the 101st Laconia Motorcycle Week was underway.

Eventgoers said they look forward to the special event every year.

“I’ve been coming here for the past 20 years, a long time,” one person said.

“It’s nice because it seems like we have made the full recovery from [the COVID-19 pandemic]. People are out, it’s a good crowd, and its good weather,” another said.

Alphonso Robinson has attended Laconia Motorcycle Week three times, and he said his friends helped him discover his passion for bikes.

“A buddy said, ‘let’s go up to Laconia, they have a bike gathering and there’s going to be thousands of bikes,'” Robinson said. “First, it’s about the ride. Then, showing off your ride, and enjoying the ride.”

Even with all the staple souvenirs and rows of personalized bikes, eventgoers said it’s the familiar faces and feeling of community that has them coming back each year.

“Just seeing old friends that you haven’t seen, you see them every year when you come up here,” one person said.