LEESBURG, Fla. — Local businesses and visitors are keeping an eye on the weather as bikers roar back into Lake County this weekend for the Leesburg Bikefest.

>>> STREAM CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS LIVE <<<

It’s the first time a full spring event has been held since the start of the pandemic.

READ: Afternoon storm chances to stay through the weekend in Central Florida

The pandemic caused the event to be canceled, moved or pared down for years. On Thursday, a squall damaged tents that had recently been set up.

The event began in 1997 with 5,000 guests for one day.

READ: SpaceX confirmed rocket undamaged after lightning strikes Falcon Heavy launchpad in Florida

See our full coverage in the video above.

READ: 9 things to do this weekend in Central Florida

Afternoon forecast: Friday, April 28 (WFTV)

Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.

©2023 Cox Media Group