FARMINGTON – Motorcycle enthusiasts are invited to enjoy the beauty of Franklin County on Saturday, Sept. 15, when the 2nd annual Franklin County Chamber of Commerce Fun Run takes place.

While showcasing the county to those who don’t live here, the event is planned as a fun day for visitors and residents, who will be sent throughout the area on a poker run, said Lorna Nichols, executive director of the chamber.

Registration for the poker run begins at 8:30 a.m. with groups leaving the chamber parking lot on the Wilton Road, Routes 2 and 4, between 9:30 and 10 a.m., she said. Cash prizes for the poker run include $500 best hand, $300 next best hand and $100 worst hand.

After the less than 100-mile run, cyclists will return to the chamber parking lot for a cookout and music by Tired Starlings, a group of young people who play classic rock, she said. The event will continue until 4 p.m.

The riders will line up their motorcycles for a bike show so those attending may vote for a winner with trophies awarded for first and second place, best of show and people’s choice, she said.

A raffle for a $500 Harley-Davidson gift card, redeemable at event sponsor L-A Harley-Davidson of Lewiston, will also be held.

The public is also welcome to attend the bike show, have lunch and enjoy the music. A small lunch fee will be charged for those who do not participate in the poker run, she said.

Last year, there were 125 participants in the first fun run with people from New Hampshire, Vermont, New York, Canada and Down East Maine attending, she said. But the chamber hopes to grow the event with plans already started for next year’s run.

In addition to the motorcycle fun run and bike show, a classic car show will be featured, she said.

“The event is an effort to draw people to the great area we have with a stress free and fun day where they can meet new people and old friends,” Nichols said. Nichols has sent packets with information to 35 motorcycle shops throughout New England.

A $15 donation per person is requested for the poker run with extra poker hands available for $5 each. A limited quantity of event T-shirts are also available from the chamber office.

Rain date is Sunday, Sept. 16, with a rain date info hot line available at 207-491-0204. More information is available from the chamber office at 778-4215 or e-mail: [email protected]