History of the SFPC Toys in the Sun Run

A Tradition of Brotherhood, Community, and Holiday Spirit

The SFPC Toys in the Sun Run stands as one of South Florida’s most cherished motorcycle charity events, a celebration of riders, families, and community members coming together to make the holidays brighter for children in need. What began as a small, heartfelt effort has grown into a massive annual tradition that unites thousands of participants across the region.

Origins: A Simple Idea with a Big Heart

The event traces its roots back to members of the South Florida Presidents Council (SFPC), a coalition of motorcycle club leaders dedicated to unity and charitable outreach. The run began in 1987, organized by Bob Amchir and the South Florida motorcycle community, evolving from earlier smaller toy runs. The council sought a way to channel the passion of the riding community into something that would directly benefit local families during the holiday season.

Their idea was simple: organize a police-escorted motorcycle run where every participant brings a toy. Those toys would then be donated to children who might otherwise go without gifts during the holidays. That simple idea quickly gained momentum.

Growth Through the Decades

As word spread, the Toys in the Sun Run evolved from a modest gathering into one of the largest motorcycle toy runs in the United States, with over 30,000 motorcycles participating annually. Riders from across Florida and the country joined the cause. The event became known not only for its charitable mission but also for its festive atmosphere, scenic ride routes, and the unmistakable roar of thousands of bikes traveling together.

The ride is police-escorted, shutting down major highways in South Florida, and involves coordination among many law enforcement agencies.

Over the years, the run expanded to include:

Live music and entertainment
Vendor villages
Food and refreshments
Raffles and auctions
Special appearances from local leaders and celebrities

Each addition helped transform the event into a full-day celebration that families and riders look forward to year after year.

Supporting Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital and Other Charities

A major milestone in the event’s history was the partnership with Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, recognized for its commitment to providing world-class pediatric care. The hospital is the primary beneficiary of the Toys in the Sun Run.

The event also supports other local charities such as the Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County and the Bergeron Everglades Foundation.

Through these partnerships, the event has raised significant funds and delivered thousands of toys to children receiving care. The impact is felt not only during the holiday season but throughout the year, as donations help support vital programs, treatments, and services.

Festival and Community Celebration

The ride starts near the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Hollywood and ends at Bergeron Green Glades Ranch in Weston. There, a festival with live music, vendors, food, and family activities takes place.

A Legacy of Giving

Today, the SFPC Toys in the Sun Run is more than a motorcycle event; it is a symbol of compassion, unity, and the power of community. Generations of riders have participated, passing the tradition down to new members of the motorcycle community.

The event continues to thrive thanks to:

Dedicated volunteers
Motorcycle clubs and independent riders
Local businesses and sponsors
Families who attend and contribute

Sponsors include the Seminole Tribe of Florida, Rick Case Automotive Group, and The Attorney That Rides.

Looking Ahead

As the Toys in the Sun Run moves forward, its mission remains unchanged: bring joy to children and support the hospital that cares for them. The SFPC is committed to preserving the event’s legacy while continuing to grow, adapt, and inspire future generations.

The history of the Toys in the Sun Run is still being written, one ride, one toy, and one act of kindness at a time.