A festival that goes by “the largest music festival in motorcycling” and “the best party anywhere” can only raise more questions than it answers. Questions like largest? And, where do the motorcycles fit in? Well, on Monday, July 29 at 8 a.m. sharp, the Sturgis Buffalo Chip Rally’s garage services begin, opening the floodgate for over 400,000 bikers who will ride through the festival’s open fields during its two-week run.
For the entirety of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally’s first four days, before the music even begins, the festival follows the same routine: the garage opens, the information center hands out maps and then there’s a bikini beach pre-party until 1:45 a.m. This may sound like a harsh cut-off point for a bikini party on the beach in the landlocked state of South Dakota, but remember, you’ve gotta get up and ride! Does the event sound a little dated? Don’t worry, they’ve modernized by adding in a homemade mankini contest.
Once the music kicks in on Friday, the bikini beach parties become bikini bike washes and motorcycle stunt shows in between acts like Jelly Roll, Bad Wolves and Kid Rock. Past performers have included Ozzy Osbourne, Bob Dylan, Def Leppard, Willie Nelson, Journey, Puddle of Mudd, ZZ Top and Aerosmith. It’s bike show, concert, refuel and start again for a whole week. Moto-enthusiasts can camp on the festival grounds among the Black Hills (and park your bike) or come and go as you please.
Food vendors this year include JAK’s Porky’s BBQ, Coffee Crib, Wok-n-Roll Asian Food and Lazy River Donuts — because humans also need to refuel. And of course, you don’t want to miss the beauty pageant to see the judges hand out the title every little girl dreams of: Miss Buffalo Chip.
The Specs
- Over 400,000 people attended the American festival in 2023.
- Tickets start at $40 for the lowest tier of admission and range up to $840. The full breakdown of ticket tiers and prices can be found here.
- Check out Fifty Grande’s guide to the best things to do in South Dakota here.
FAQs
Where does the festival take place?
The fest is held at the Buffalo Chip Campground in Sturgis Buffalo Chip, South Dakota.
What’s the exact address?
Sturgis Buffalo Chip – 20622 Fort Meade Way, Buffalo Chip, SD 57785
How far is it from Rapid City to Buffalo Chip?
Rapid City is about 30 miles south of Buffalo Chip?
What’s the best way to get to the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally?
There are several small airports nearby, however, the best way to get to the festival is via motorcycle.
It’s my first time attending the legendary Sturgis Buffalo Chip. What should I expect?
Expect nine nights of musical performances, races, bike shows, a swimming hole, bars, food, camping and more.
Are there any age restrictions?
No, but minors must have a DOT-approved helmet to ride.
What is CrossRoads?
According to Wikipedia: “In 2012, the Sturgis Buffalo Chip built CrossRoads, an outdoor free-access venue at the western edge of the property, featuring the Big Engine Bar and stage, Field of Flags military tribute, and open space for vendors, bike washes, motorcycle shows, and numerous other motorcycle rally-related activities.”
What is the Legends Ride?
The charity event is a 50-mile motorcyle ride from Deadwood to Sturgis.
When is the Buffalo Bash demolition event at Camp Zero?
June 29.
When is Black Hills Bike Week Rendezvous?
June 20-23.
What is the Sturgis Buffalo Chip
The Sturgis Buffalo Chip is a campground and event venue in Sturgis. It was founded by Rod Woodruff and it hosts the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Woodruff is currently the Sturgis Buffalo Chip CEO.
Who’s on this year’s lineup?
Bad Wolves, Kid Rock, Travis Tritt, Aaron Lewis, Jelly Roll, Theory of a Deadman, Hinder and more to be announced.
Playlist
Poster
