The Peter Makris Memorial Run
The Official Kickstart to Laconia Motorcycle Week!
20th Annual Peter Makris Memorial Run
Saturday – June 13, 2026
Supporting a variety of local and veteran-focused charities, including Veterans Count (Easterseals NH), Laconia Fire Department Life-Saving Fund, CERT, Building Dreams for Marines, NH Veterans Home, and Belknap House.
The Peter Makris Memorial Run
While the “Official Kickoff to Laconia Motorcycle Week” is ride-centric, the reason we ride is also of prime importance. Peter Makris, the patriarch of the legendary NASWA Resort, the Official Hotel of the rally, was well-loved and is now well-remembered in the 19th Annual ride in his honor, The Peter Makris Memorial Run.
The annual Peter Makris Memorial Run has to date raised over $600,000 for Veterans Count and embraces the aspects of life that meant most to Peter—family, friends, The NASWA, and giving back to his Laconia community. As a proud U.S. military veteran, Peter relished the friendship of his fellow U.S. Marine Corps Leathernecks and the group has become an integral part of the event, flying their colors to honor his service and memory.
Known and recognized as a leader of the community and as the warmest smiling face at The NASWA Resort that Peter owned with his wife, Hope, he took every opportunity to enjoy the beauty of his home state, and to give back. If not boating or riding with friends, Peter would be found welcoming visitors from his customary seat at the entrance to the NAZBar & Grill. Having built a career as an attorney after serving in the U.S. Marine Corps, Peter and Hope raised their family in the hospitality business of The NASWA Resort. He was instrumental in providing the Laconia Fire Department’s water rescue team’s first boat and led the rest of the lake business community to join in. He rode until the age of 82, often with Hope and encouraged his daughter, Cynthia, who now heads the resort, to ride as well. Though he passed 16 years ago, everyone who ever met him remembers his beaming smile and warm handshake.
The Beneficiaries
Thanks to the support of the ride, Easter Seals NH “Veterans Count” Program now has a Lakes Region Chapter, with Cynthia Makris, Peter’s daughter, as Vice Chair. The organization supports all U.S. military — active duty, veterans and their families with important personal, financial and family services. Veterans Count has proven a valuable resource to area vets and The Peter Makris Run has donated over $275,000 to this venerable organization.
A staunch supporter of the Laconia Fire Department, Makris led the start of the Fire Department’s Life Saving fund and helped purchase the first Fire Rescue boat. That Life Saving Fund, funded by the Peter Makris Memorial Run for the past 17 years, continues to finance the water rescue unit of the Laconia Fire Department since no state tax dollars were appropriated for this important Lake Winnipesaukee service. Over the years, the charity expanded its support to include the area Community Emergency Response Team (CERT).
Additional donations to:
Building Dreams for Marines, The Belknap House homeless shelter in Laconia and in 2020 provided 60 boxes of solar Christmas lights for our heroes at the NH Veterans Home in Tilton.
Pre-registration by Tues 6/9/26.
First 150 Pre-Registered Get: Commemorative 20TH Annual David Uhl designed T-Shirt, free beer on Peter, Kick-ass BBQ and entry to the After Party at the NazBar & Grill with the legendary James Montgomery Band.
Schedule: Please note NEW Times!
8am – 9:30am Continental breakfast and registration in two-level NASWA parking lot Bikes/Boaters meet at NASWA Resort. Go across the street to the registration tent in the two-level parking lot. Receive wrist band, commemorative 20TH Annual David Uhl t-shirt, beer chip and sign NHMS waiver.
9:30am – 9:45am Final gathering and placement of motorcycles and cars
in The NASWA parking lot.
9:45am Opening ceremonies and Blessing of the Bikes!
10:30am SHARP KICKSTANDS UP! Motorcycles are escorted by NH State Police to NH Motor Speedway to take laps, then on a beautiful ride around the lake!
1 – 4pm The Party Rolls On… Live Music with The Legendary James Montgomery Band.
$50 Per Person!
VIP Packages ($75 PP) Include: Running in front of the pack, priority parking and a $10 NASWA gift card!
We THANK YOU… The faithful riders and boaters who help us in our mission. AGAPE and SEMPER FI
Donations are Welcome!
Make a difference by donating to the Laconia Fire Department Life Saving Fund, Water Rescue Teams and Easter Seals NH “Veterans Count” Program. Click here to contribute to their fund!
Would you like to be a sponsor of this event? Contact us today.
For more information, please call us at 603.366.4341
Ongoing Community Engagement & Charitable Events
Hospitality with Heart
At The NASWA, giving back isn’t just something we do—it’s part of who we are. We host events that align fun with purpose, championing causes that matter to our guests, staff, and neighbors alike.
Our seasonal calendar includes events like the Freedom Celebration, Rockin’ for Vets, and Military Appreciation Days during Independence Week, where we honor those who serve with gratitude and celebration. Charity Cocktail Nights at the NazBar & Grill raise funds for local nonprofits, and we regularly partner with animal shelters and rescue organizations to support our four-legged friends. Whether you’re a guest, local, or part of our extended NASWA family, you’re invited to be part of something meaningful every time you join us.
Venue Spaces for a Cause
Host Events That Make a Difference
Looking for a scenic and spirited location for your next charitable event? The NASWA Resort offers flexible, lakeside spaces that turn fundraisers and community gatherings into unforgettable experiences.
From benefit dinners and awareness walks to concerts and community celebrations, our team provides full event support—including planning, catering, and entertainment coordination. Choose from venues like the vibrant NazBar & Grill, the refined Blue Bistro, or our spacious private beach. Let your event shine with lake views, heartfelt hospitality, and a mission that leaves a lasting impact.