The public is invited to join the 2018 Firehouse Ride on Saturday, September 29. The ninth annual Newtown Hook & Ladder fundraising event will again be offering music, food, raffle prizes, and a meandering 50-mile motorcycle ride through neighboring towns.

Registration opens at 1 pm at the firehouse, 12 Church Hill Road.

Guests will enjoy entertainment with a DJ, bouncy house, and more. The ride will depart at 3 pm. A barbecue is open to the general public and begins at roughly 4 pm, when riders return. Participants will be treated to live music, a pig roast, and cash bar.

Cost is $30 per rider, $20 per passenger, $20 for those who would like to enjoy just the pig roast BBQ, and $12 for ages 12 and under. 

The ride, escorted by members of the fire company, is about 50 miles long and includes traffic control at intersections. Riders will leave the firehouse and follow a route through nearby towns including Brookfield, Bridgewater, Roxbury, Woodbury, and Southbury, before returning to the firehouse. On average, 75 to 100 motorcycles join the ride.

This year’s event includes a 50/50 raffle and silent auction. Items include Coach bags, framed paintings by local artists, fire safety kits, jewelry, handmade items, wreaths, and donations from local businesses.

Fundraising proceeds benefit Hook & Ladder and helps with general building maintenance and expenses.

Newtown Hook & Ladder Company members extend thanks to sponsors Smokey Mountain Chew and the Goffer Guys, along with the Borough of Newtown, Law Offices of James Gaston, and many others.

This year, Ed “Stretch” Forbell is the honored life member.

Keep up with the ride details on Facebook at Newtown Hook & Ladder Firehouse Ride.