September is just around the corner, and that means it is time to get in gear for Bainbridge BikeFest, which runs from Wed., Sept. 18 to 22. This is Year 15 for BikeFest, which began in 1998 at the Commodore Industrial Park.

Even though there is a flurry of last minute activity, board members and volunteers know the event requires year-round work and planning.

BikeFest 2013 Chairman, Robert Tate, knows this only too well. He has worked diligently to bring some new attractions to this year’s event, while returning some of the old traditions to the community.

A new feature this year will be a tattoo trailer to serve those who might wish to obtain a permanent reminder of their BikeFest attendance. The trailer, purchased by Tate earlier this year, was formerly a mobile dental clinic. It has been reconditioned and rebuilt to meet local health codes. Space will be rented out to tattoo artist vendors.

There is an effort to once again incorporate some of the events and activities into the community by returning the veterans memorial service to Willis Park on Friday evening at 5:30 p.m.

Roy Reynolds, organizer of the veterans service, urges the community to come to Willis Park and stand for 30 minutes to show their respect and thanks to those who have served this country. Reynolds said the ceremony was begun in year one when they became aware that the third Friday in September is National MIA/POW Remembrance Day. Featured speaker will be Col. Gary Breedlove. Patriotic music will be provided by a Bainbridge First United Methodist Church quartet, accompanied by Gaye Herndon. At the conclusion, a special dedication will recognize two local veterans. Also participating will be the Bainbridge High School JROTC presentation of colors.

On Saturday morning around the square, there will be a combined bike and vintage car show. Registration begins at 9 a.m. and judging at 11 a.m.

Immediately following the show, participating bikes will leave from the square to make the poker run, which ends at the Charter House Inn.

Back on the BikeFest grounds there will be ongoing games and music. The dunking booth returns this year to add to the fun. The quilt raffle and a drawing for a Harley Davidson  2013 Sportster 1200 bike will take place late Saturday night, just before the closing band performance by Mad Margritt’s at 11 p.m.

Sunday services conducted by the Christian Motorcycle Association at 9:30 a.m. at Merritt’s Beer Barn on the BikeFest grounds will bring the official events to a close.

BikeFest is held on the 100 acre grounds located on Pond Town Road. Campsites are available, many with electricity.

Entry fee is $40 for a weekend pass and $20 for Saturday only. Admission is limited to adults, age 21 and over.

For more information go to www.bainbridgebikefest.com.