This annual feature in Downtown Indianapolis had a 12-year run and was known as one of the most iconic two-wheel events in the country.
Each summer, thousands of motorcyclists would park their bikes along the curb lanes as well as in the middle of Meridian Street to admire each other’s machines and explore vendors.
The event was initially started by the Indianapolis Motor Speedway back in 2008 as a hospitality event to accompany the MotoGP motorcycle race at the Speedway.
In 2016, Downtown Indy, Inc., the civic nonprofit charged with activating Downtown Indianapolis with events and vibrancy, shared its intent to proceed with plans to keep the popular “Motorcycles on Meridian” celebration as part of its summertime line-up of events. This decision followed the cancelation of the MotoGP race at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Downtown Indy, Inc. agreed to partner with ABATE to manage and stage the event in partnership with the Indiana War Memorials.
Motorcycles on Meridian closed Meridian Street to cars/trucks from Ohio Street to South Street for an entire day and night, in the heart of Downtown, on a summer Saturday, which created obstacles for many area businesses, and an increased demand for public safety personnel, staffing and volunteers.
Now, after 12 years, all partners agree that the time has come to envision a new motorcycle event in Downtown Indianapolis. ABATE and Downtown Indy, Inc. are in discussions with partners and potential sponsors and plans to make announcements in the weeks ahead.
About Downtown Indy, Inc.
Founded in 1993, Downtown Indy, Inc., a public/private partnership existing to improve Downtown, is also known as Indianapolis Downtown, Inc. As a private, not-for-profit organization, Downtown Indy, Inc. is uniquely positioned to address issues that affect the area’s growth and well-being. Downtown Indy, Inc. focuses on development, management, activation and marketing to advance Downtown as a great place to live, learn, work and play.
About ABATE of Indiana
ABATE (American Bikers Aimed Toward Education) of Indiana is a not-for-profit, safety, educational, charitable and advocacy motorcyclist organization. Its aims are to promote safety, protect rights and help others. ABATE of Indiana represents approximately 13 percent of the registered motorcycles in Indiana, with a membership of over 20,000. ABATE has a full-time staff, 350 volunteer officers and more than 200 certified safety instructors, dedicated to serving the interests of all motorcyclists. ABATE of Indiana provides 100 volunteers for the annual Motorcycles on Meridian.
About the Indiana War Memorial Commission
The Indiana War Memorial Commission, whose mission is to honor Hoosier veterans, ensure their sacrifices are not forgotten and to educate citizens about the military history of our state and country. The Indiana Soldiers and Sailors Monument is recognized as one of the world's outstanding monuments and has come to symbolize both the City of Indianapolis and the state of Indiana. In addition to the Indiana Soldiers and Sailors Monument, the commission also operates and maintains the USS Indianapolis Memorial and the Indiana War Memorial and Museum and Veterans Memorial Plaza.
