The 34th Annual Port Alberni Toy Run blasts into the Alberni Valley this weekend, bringing thousands of toys for children in need at Christmas, and tens of thousands of dollars for children’s programs and family events throughout the year.
More than a thousand motorcycles of every make, model, size, and colour are expected to gather at Little Qualicum Falls on Saturday, Sept. 15.
After a ceremony to remember fallen riders, the Alberni Black Powder Club will fire their cannon at noon to start Vancouver Island’s largest motorcycle event.
Motorcycles will travel westbound along Highway 4, past Cameron Lake and through Cathedral Grove into Port Alberni, ending at Glenwood Centre around 1 p.m.
“What makes this Toy Run unique are the thousands of people who line the route to cheer the riders, holding up signs thanking them for helping the children in the Alberni Valley and west coast communities,” said Port Alberni Toy Run Chairman David Wiwchar. “Since 1984, the Toy Run has raised almost two-million dollars for local children’s charities, and the people of Port Alberni really appreciate that.”
Once at Glenwood Centre, there are games and events for children and families, as well as events for the hundreds of riders who come from throughout B.C., Alberta, and the Pacific Northwest to attend the popular annual event.
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