Another Lone Star Rally wraps up in Galveston

GALVESTON, TX (KTRK) -- There was a sound in the air this weekend on Galveston Island.

"Everyone is revving it up and trying to be louder than the other person," says Vendor Monica Sanchez.

Her son pipes in with his big eyes describing the entertainment he has seen on The Strand adding, "I just saw somebody eat fire. That is just crazy."

The largest four day bike rally in North America keeps getting bigger. Police estimate about 400,000 rode in for the Lone Star Rally this weekend.

Sgt. Joshua Schirard with Galveston Police says traffic and crowd control are the biggest priorities. Most arrests are alcohol related. Sgt. Schirard says eight people were arrested Friday, six Saturday but none on the final day Sunday.

"Our arrest numbers and statistics have stayed flat throughout the years but we've had this growth in attendance which is really good and a testament to the type of people who come down here for this event," said Sgt. Shirard.

The most serious arrest involved a local man accused of taking a tip jar at a booth. The Sgt adds, "He had a stolen gun on him and a ski mask and some gloves and narcotics as well. What his intent was is assumable."

The economic boost benefits the island and many visitors.

Boot repair shop owner Theodore Schizas says of his work, "It takes a lot of skills and the right equipment."

Hotels and restaurants on the Island were also full.

Vendor Monica Sanchez says everyone, "Enjoys the different styles of bikes we have out here. Enjoy the vendors and things you don't see anywhere else. People come from all over the world."

And not everyone rides in on two wheels. Eddie Mae Brooks of La Marque was attending with her family for the first time.

"It's fun, the shops and the bikes are nice, real nice. I'm enjoying myself and I will come back next year," Brooks said.

Check out some photos from this weekend's rally. If you were there, we'd love to see your photos, just send them to us at news@abc13.com.