Most of Veterans Park closed early due to mud; H-D officials change end of parade route

Veterans Park closes early Sunday due to heavy rain

H-D 115th celebration ends at Veterans Park

MILWAUKEE -- Harley-Davidson officials announced a change to the 115th anniversary parade route hours before it began. On Sunday, Sept. 2, officials said due to heavy rain Saturday night and over the past week, most of Veterans Park had to be closed to the public.

H-D officials said parade riders could park, pick up their HOG 35th anniversary pins and access limited food and beverage services as well as restrooms at Veteran’s Park from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

They said parade riders should continue north on Lincoln Memorial Drive and bypass Veterans Park at the end of the route.

All other activities at Veterans Park, including the "Moto Carnival," would not be available due to the conditions of the grounds.

Harley-Davidson officials encouraged everyone to check out the seven local dealerships, the Harley-Davidson Museum and Whitnall Park Beer Garden and South Shore Terrace for 115th activities.

Riders could also "keep on rollin'" to the Summerfest grounds for the Big Gig BBQ happening Sunday from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Harley-Davidson Museum

FOX6 caught up with a group from Mexico, who said they didn't mind turning around when Veterans Park was closed early. Walter Olivo, who grew up in Mexico, said the group had traveled close to 3,000 miles.

Walter Olivo

Harley-Davidson Museum

At the Harley-Davidson Museum, we found a very unique Harley/Volkswagen combination.

Bryant Levant

"I said 'I'll make a trike that nobody has seen in about 20 years. People are amazed because the bike is so small, so I've always been called 'Bhatmon,'" said Bryant Levant from Illinois.

Bryant Levant

We also spoke with a couple from Brazil, part of their own motorcycle club, made up of members of the military and law enforcement.

Paulo Lemos

"My motorcycle club is 'Germanus,'" said Paulo Lemos.

Ana Lopez, in town from Los Angeles, was looking for a new bike, and said she's glad she made the trip for the 115th.

"I need something faster and nicer and now that I'm more into motorcycles, I think I just want to have a better bike. I think everybody should come at least once in their lifetime. It's a really fun experience," said Lopez.