Thinking about riding to DC on Saturday for rolling thunder. We have plans for Sunday, so we won't be able to do the ride. Since this is deamed as a 1 day event, is there much going on Saturday? Any suggestions on where to go, what to see rally wise? Been ther/done that on the DC sight seeing.

 

There will be things all weekend to do, even if you can't make the run on Sunday. Every dealer in the area will have at least one event each day. As well as to say of stuff going on downtown or at Arlington.

 

Normally a big gathering at the dealer in Fort washington. They normally have bands and vendors. http://www.hdwash.com/

 

I really don't see this as a rally. The times I have been there focused on a ride of respect for the fallen....coupled with a lot of motorcycle-friendly stuff to do and a heck of a lot of friendly bikers to meet.

 

It's not really a rally as much as a ride. The closest you get is the staging area at the Pentagon, they have some vendors and a LOT of bikes crammed in there (on Sunday only). Saturday events will be localized to whatever individual dealers have planned. I would call ahead and check with Ft Washington, Old Glory, and Patriot.

 

The reason to go is to show Washington we are here and in numbers that madder. Every year a message is sent. Someday it will madder

 

Well said. This is exactly why we go.

 

Agree with what everyone else has said. Bring your walking shoes and park near what's known as "Thunder Alley", where the vendors are on Saturday. It's right by the Department of State building. You'll need your walking shoes if you want to walk to the various monuments and memorials in the area and leave your bike parked...your feet will thank you.
If you arrive Friday evening, IIRC there's usually a candlelight vigil at the Wall around 8 or 9 pm I think.

 

All the dealers in the area are planning food, beer and music. Living just east of D.C., I am just going to wing it. First and foremost, I am praying for a nice sunny weekend for a change.

 

I don't bother with the ride, but have gone for the festivities surrounding it. I stay in Crystal City, always a lot of groups staying there, some good times to be had.