August 8, 2023
Dive into the past with the annual Party at the Pen event. This unique gathering takes place at the historical Old Idaho State Penitentiary, a location that was operational from 1872 to 1973. The Party at the Pen is an exhibition of vintage motorcycles displayed throughout the prison’s numerous cells and its expansive grounds. Additionally, guests can get inked by talented tattoo artists inside the cells and watch the thrilling “Wall of Death” carnival sideshow. It’s a guaranteed journey back in time. The next event will take place on Saturday, Sept 7th, from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Sunday, Sept 8th, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at the Old Penitentiary.
Known as the “most prominent vintage motorcycle exhibition in the Northwest”, Party at the Pen, kept simple as PATP by locals, has quickly become a major attraction due to its impressive showcase of hundreds of classic motorcycles spread across the penitentiary grounds. Luke Morris, the mind behind the event, started this spectacle three years ago, inspired by similar events in California and Texas. His vision was to create a unique experience in Idaho, leveraging its breath-taking scenery and vibrant motorcycling culture. “I noticed a gap in the Valley for such a large-scale event and thought it could be a wonderful mixture of a festive gathering and a chill hangout.” Upon discovering the option to rent the penitentiary, an intriguing venue, he saw the perfect opportunity to bring his concept to life.
“I feel like it’s a perfect backdrop, because motorcycles are all about freedom and fun and you have this background that’s not — so it’s these two contrasting things coming together,” says Morris. “And the show is an amazing opportunity for folks that love these motorcycles to come together to support causes we are passionate about.”
PATP also includes many special guests such as accomplished photographers Meredith Divine and Brian Bowen Smith, West Coast Choppers legend Jesse James, and skilled tintype photographer Joseph Wyman. A major attraction this year is the Wall of Death, or velodrome, a thrilling carnival sensation that dates back to the early 1900s and showcases audacious motorcycle stunts.
The strong connection between choppers and tattoos will be evident as the PATP will showcase 17 of the nation’s finest tattoo artists. Six artists will be creating unique $100 flash tattoos on a walk-up basis, while the remaining 11 will be available for appointments leading up to and during the event. Along with tattoo artistry, expect a variety of other vendors offering products ranging from vintage attire and jewelry to motorcycle parts and artwork, complemented by a diverse food and drink selection.
The event stretches beyond the main show, offering additional attractions throughout the weekend. On Friday, we invite you to partake in a scenic motorcycle ride to Idaho City, offering a glimpse of Idaho’s stunning landscape. In the evening, join us at the Shrine Social Club for an amazing pre-party featuring Texas bands, Outbound Train and Lulu and the Black Sheep. We’ll keep the music going on Saturday night with an after-party at the Shrine, showcasing local talents Ryan Curtis and Hellbound Glory.
While all this is going on, the PATP is raising funds and awareness for nonprofit organizations they have supported for many years now. A custom 1956 FLH Harley Davidson Panhead will be given away to celebrate this year’s party with proceeds from the drawing benefiting Wounded Warriors Family Support (WWFS).
Wounded Warriors Family Support attended the event as well as several Mobility is Freedom grant recipients that live in the area. WWFS is thankful for the support and generous contributions that attendees donated for the care and well-being of the veteran families we serve on a daily basis.
If you did miss this years Party at the Pen, great news, it will be happening again in 2025 and you can learn more at partyatthepenshow.com
About Wounded Warriors Family Support
Wounded Warriors Family Support is an independent nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide support to the families of those who have been wounded, injured, or killed during combat operations. This organization is run by combat veterans for combat veterans. Rated a four-star nonprofit by Charity Navigator, Wounded Warriors Family Support aids veterans and their families in healing the wounds that medicine cannot. For more information about Wounded Warriors Family Support, visit wwfs.org.
