Milwaukee is unmistakably known around the globe for a handful of things, and chief among them is the metal monster kingdom of Harley-Davidson.
Fueled by motorcycle -- and Milwaukee -- pride, the fifth annual Milwaukee Rally returns to the Wisconsin State Fair Park for four days of bikes, music and engine revving on July 27-30.
This summer's rally welcomes Blue Oyster Cult, set to headline Friday, July 28. The event's entertainment also includes Harley enthusiast and chef Biker Billy, will provide cooking demonstrations in his renowned fiery fashion and custom bike builder Brad Ruel from "Metric Revolution," a new national television series.
Apparently, "Playboy" centerfold Ava Fabian is planning a guest appearance as are "The Last Hippie," direct from "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno Show," the Purrfect Angelz and Tom Zimberoff, author/photojournalist of "Art of the Chopper."
As usual, Harley will offer demo rides and give sneak peaks at the 2007 bike models. Other returning rally favorites include the Harley-Davidson Traveling Museum, a Ms. Milwaukee Rally Bikini Contest, Mr. Milwaukee Rally Contest, daring stunt teams, fashion shows, bar games, tattoo contests, and scenic rides. The Milwaukee Rally will also host a Midwest National Burn Out Championship -- four different bike shows with over $3,000 in cash and prizes at stake.
The four-day rally pass is $20 in advance and $25 at the gate. The VIP Event Pass is $45 and includes a four-day event pass, preferred VIP parking, the 2006 official Milwaukee Rally T-shirt, embroidered four-color patch, and pin.
Advance tickets can be purchased at participating Harley-Davidson dealerships or on the Web at milwaukeerally.com. Single-day tickets purchased at the gate are $8 for Thursday, Friday and Sunday, and $12 for Saturday.
Festival hours are:
Thursday, July 27, 4-11 p.m.
Friday, July 28 and Saturday, July 29, 11 a.m.-12 a.m.
Sunday, July 30, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.