Gears & Guitars is an annual, weekend-long event presented by Winston-Salem Cycling that combines cycle racing and free live music. Its nickname, “the biggest party on two wheels,” is a testament to the grandeur and popularity of this unique event. Gears & Guitars 2023 will be August 4-6.
About Gears & Guitars
In just ten years, Gears & Guitars has become a renowned criterium race. Riders from all over the world come to Winston-Salem to compete, while cycling fans from across the U.S. flock to North Carolina to witness the action.
The event offers a range of rides and races for the local community, amateurs, juniors, and professionals. Anyone can join the community rides, with various paths catering to different skill levels. The amateur and professional races showcase some of the world’s finest cyclists as they tackle the challenging Winston-Salem Classic course. It’s an exhilarating battle that you won’t want to miss!
In addition, there will be free live music every day for all to enjoy. This year’s concerts will feature local artists and bands as well as nationally-known performers. Stick around after the races to listen to music, sing along, have a drink, and unwind.
This Year’s Events
Gears & Guitars 2023 will be August 4-6. Take a look at this year’s schedule:
AUGUST 4: The weekend kicks off with Streets of Fire presented by Audi Winston-Salem, which features drag race-style bicycle street sprints down 4th Street all evening. Finish the night with live music from Cracker and Nine Days. The Friday concerts will take place nearby on Marshall Street adjacent to Winston Square Park beginning at 7 p.m.
AUGUST 5: Community racers will depart from Bailey Park in the morning. Riders will be able to pick from two road distances and two greenway/gravel distances. In the afternoon, both pros and amateurs will race on the WS Classic course. The night ends with live music from Soul Asylum and Dishwalla at Bailey Park beginning at 6 p.m.
AUGUST 6: Unwind with a drink and live music from many local artists in the CoalPit at Bailey Park. Performers include Wafer Thin, The Hollirockets, and Dead Drag Moon.
Click here to see the full schedule!
Coolers and outside alcoholic beverages are prohibited at all Gears & Guitars concerts. More information can be found about cycling, concerts, and other related community events at WinstonSalemCycling.com or by following the Gears & Guitars social feeds.
