Blessing of the Bikes draws thousands to Bald Knob Cross

The roar of thousands of motorcycles rumbled across southern Illinois on Sunday during the 33rd annual Blessing of the Bikes at the Bald Knob Cross of Peace.

Nearly 5000 motorcyclists from across the Midwest were anticipated to come and go through the day for the blessing, food and vendors. The event was also open to anyone else who wanted to attend.

Bald Knob has been the site of Easter sunrise services since the 1930s, and the 111-foot tall cross was completed in 1963.

Another event, the Blessing of the Jeeps will be hosted on June 7 for Jeeps and other off-highway vehicles.