10 years of racing, riding, and rock and roll at the Gears and Guitars festival

Winston-Salem Cycling calls Gears and Guitars “the biggest party on two wheels.” The cycling competition is also a festival with free concerts all weekend long, so you don’t need a bike to take part in the fun.

WStoday Gears and Guitars

Cyclists challenge themselves on the Winston-Salem Classic course, which loops up and around Bailey Park.

Photo by Weldon Weaver.

Last year, 1,000+ cyclists zoomed through the streets of downtown — and they’re expected to return in droves this weekend. Gears and Guitars is back August 4-6, celebrating 10 years in the Twin City. And it’s not just a cycling competition — the three-day event is also a chance to hear live music for free.

Here’s a look at the line up:

Friday, August 4

  • Cycling: Streets of Fire drag race-style street sprints on 4th St. between Poplar St. and Trade St.
    7-9 p.m.
  • On the stage: Cracker + Nine Days
    Performances start at 7 p.m. on Marshall St. adjacent to Winston Square Park

Saturday, August 5

  • Cycling: Fondo community rides and Winston-Salem Cycling Classic men’s and women’s races at Bailey Park
    6:30 a.m.-8:15 p.m.
  • On the stage: Clay Howard, Silver Alert, Soul Asylum + Dishwalla
    Performances start at 6 p.m. in Bailey Park (bring a chair or blanket)
WStoday Gears and Guitars concert 2022

In addition to live music, there will also be food trucks and a beer garden (21+) to enjoy.

Photo by Winston-Salem Cycling.

Sunday, August 6

  • On the stage: Wafer Thin, The Hollirockets + Dead Drag Motion
    The after-party will take place 12-4 p.m. at the Coalpit at Bailey Park

Registration for the races is required but you don’t need a ticket for the concerts. Public parking for Friday is located in the lot at the corner of 5th St. and Spruce St. or the garage on 4th St. and Poplar St. Park in the Church St. parking garage if you head to events on Saturday and Sunday.

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