It’s All Fun & Games – Until Your Picture Shows Up On The Internet
LoveIt’s probably obvious that you’ll find plenty of incredible bands and bikes at the Largest Music Festival in Motorcycling®. What you might not know is there’s a ton of off-the-wall activities to do at the Sturgis Rally when you’re not ogling beautiful bikes or singing your heart out with your favorite band. Throughout each afternoon at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, you’ve got the chance to watch or participate in some wild, freaky, seriously strange and utterly hilarious fun and games at locations throughout the Buffalo Chip property. These activities aren’t kid tested or mother approved, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t join in anyway! In fact, that’s an even better reason to participate. Check out the different areas of the Sturgis Buffalo Chip property now to plan which events you’d like to attend. (Depending what you do, you may also want to arrange an alibi.) Big Engine Bar You don’t even have to enter through the main gate before getting a taste of all the silly shenanigans that happen at the Buffalo Chip. The free-access CrossRoads Sturgis Motorcycle Rally destination at the West Gate is home to oodles of daytime attractions including daily bike shows, the Wall of Death and the Bikini Bike Wash. But it’s when you step inside the Big Engine Bar that things get a little bit wilder. On the Big Engine Bar Stage, the DJ brings the rock, and master of ceremonies Tumbleweed brings the roll. Between onstage events and entertaining contests, he lets the fun move in whatever direction the wind takes him. Go head-to-head, beard-to-beard, or belly-to-belly with your friends at the bar, and Tumbleweed will send you off with prizes like free day passes, VIP passes, Top Shelf passes and more. A few of the contests you’ll find throughout the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally week at the Big Engine Bar: Arm Wrestling Contest Beer Belly Contest Best Beard Contest Buffalo Chip Trivia Cherry Pie Eating Contest Content Creator Olympics Fake Orgasm Contest Hammerschlagen Headbang Contest Hot Hunks Contest Mullet Madness Contest Plank Races Sassy & Classy Bartender Competition Strong Man Contest Wrecking Balls For more info and times click here! Bikini Beach The beer is cold, the water is warm and the games are hot at Bikini Beach! Take part in the silly and sexy spectacle as comedian Chris Trew hosts some of the Buffalo Chip’s most legendary games throughout each afternoon in the heart of the campground. Build your own bikini, draw dirty doodles, and slip and slide in sticky whipped cream. Burp, lick and thrust your way to the top of the leaderboard, and you could be taking home some fantastic prizes including cool Twisted Tea gear, Buffalo Chip passes and COLD HARD CASH. If you’d rather watch than participate, you’ll find plenty of room to post up in the sand, on a floaty or at the Milagro Cantina. Daily Contests at Bikini Beach: Air Sex World Championships Beers & Burps Contest Dick Pictionary Frozen T-Shirt Contest Homemade Bikini Contest Homemade Mankini Contest Pickle Lickin’ Slip ‘n’ Slide Relay Ultimate Rope Swing Contest Whipped Cream Twister For more info and times click here! Camp Zero Get down and dirty during a full week of motorcycle and minibike adventures at Camp Zero! If you’ve got a need for smiles and don’t mind getting a little dirt between your teeth, head to the east end of the campground and look for the big ZERO sign. Here, you’ll meet up with Master of Mayhem Jason Lightner and a crew of Gambler 500 folks who value fun over rules. Show up with or without a bike and be ready to cause a ruckus in races, rodeos and roustabouts. In addition to battle wounds and bragging rights, your participation could earn you rad Camp Zero apparel or even cash money. Zero Fun: Sasha’s Cycles Rodeo Games Minibike Scavenger Hunt Hell Track Time Trials Motorcycle Parts Swap Meet Pull Start Barrel Racing Mini Bike Rodeo Leave ZERO Trace: Sons of Smokey Clean up HooptieX Formula G GoKart Racing Mini Bike Flat Track Racing Sportster Showdown Dirt Drags Martian Machine Contraption Show Martian Machine Games Big Grass Race Anarchy Games Snap Fabrications Minibike Show Roustabout on the Big Track Mini Bike Street Drags Check out the Buffalo Chip’s Sturgis Motorcycle Rally online schedule here for a full listing of all event times and locations! Love
Get to Know 2023 Poster Model – Empowered
LoveA 30 year Sturgis Rally tradition continues when the Buffalo Chip Poster Model Search kicks off this February. Want to know what it takes to score the Rally’s most coveted modeling job? Read on to learn about the 2023 Buffalo Chip Poster Model. Buffalo Chip Poster Model Em Powered spent the 2023 Sturgis rally hanging out at the Chip, participating in signature rides like Biker Belles Women’s Day, and rocking out in the Amphitheater to bands like ZZ Top and Def Leppard – all while representing The Best Party Anywhere. If you missed out on basking in her beautiful presence and engaging in astute conversation, read on to see what she is all about! Age 34 years young Occupation Registered Nurse and Ambassador to Women and Motorsports What are three words that describe your personality? IRON, BUTT, RIDER What is your favorite hobby? Exploring our beautiful country on two wheels. Steeve McQueen once said “Racing is life.” For me, it’s “Riding.” Where do you go when you want to have fun and cut loose? I leather up, hop on my Indian, and hit the hills. The most enjoyable roads are the ones that challenge you; the ears popping, stomach dropping, and dragging footboards. As you come out of the turn into a straightaway, you squeeze the clutch, upshift, and crack the throttle; wind in your face, heart pounding, and you can’t seem to stop smiling. Being on my bike is an adrenaline I live for and love. Describe your fantasy motorcycle ride. I took my fantasy motorcycle ride last year with my dog Tator. Together we rode the lower 48 states and all four corners of the US in 26 days covering 13,528 miles. If you could be a rockstar for a day, who would it be and why? Janis Joplin. She was the ultimate symbol for sexual freedom and female empowerment. Unfortunately, gone way too soon in life. If you could hold any world record, what would you want it to be, and why? Last year I helped set a new world record along with 100 other women for the most amount of ladies on Indian Motorcycles at one time. I’m hoping to help beat it this year in August. Who is the person who’s been the biggest influence on your life? Why? My parents. They worked extremely hard to help my brother and I through college and give us the opportunities in life that they did not have. I am forever grateful to them. Why did you want to be the 2023 Buffalo Chip Poster Model? What sets the Buffalo Chip apart from everywhere else is the magic in itself. The Chip has the ability to bring such a diverse group of people together and despite our differences, form a community. Each year, it’s as if we attend a family reunion. Which is why the sign “Welcome Home Bikers” as you enter the campground has such a strong meaning. We all know the venue for being “The Best Party Anywhere.” However, it is so much more than just that. From their generous contribution to the veterans, to their ongoing effort to embrace women in motorcycling, the Buffalo Chip has earned my love and respect which is why It would be an honor to represent them. I can honestly say that I am far more of a rider than I will ever be a swimsuit model…. However, being the poster model isn’t just posing for a picture. You’re the brand ambassador for the largest music and motorcycle festival in the world. It requires you to know the industry, be outgoing, and also have strong marketing skills. Because at the end of the day you want people to continue to return each year to the family reunion for generations to come. The Sturgis Poster Model contest kicks off every year in February, you can see a full schedule at buffalochip.com! Love
The Complete Sturgis Rally Guide: Everything You Need To Know About The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally
Love There’s nothing in the world like the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Our rides, concerts, and events are as notorious as they are famous. You’ve heard stories of horned men, buffalo hide bikes, and bartenders on stilts pouring drinks down people’s throats. You’ve seen iconic Sturgis Motorcycle Rally celebrations on T.V.: Travel Channel, Discovery Channel, and every news channel known to man. Maybe you’ve been to the Sturgis Rally and ridden past Mount Rushmore, through the Needle’s Eye, or scraped pegs on the 360-degree Pigtail Bridge turns. You want to experience the Sturgis Rally, and you should. It’s easy to imagine yourself riding down Main Street, hitting the 84 curves on Iron Mountain Rd through the Black Hills, or drinking a cold one, center stage, at the best concert of your life. But what else should you know about the Sturgis Rally? Anyone who comes to the Sturgis Rally knows there is no shortage of things to do. In fact, it’s impossible to do All The Things, even if you tried. To ensure you don’t waste your time at the wrong events during this year’s Rally, you need the inside scoop, a trusted Sturgis Rally Guide of must-dos, and you need it now to plan for the Sturgis Rally. Do all the things you truly want to do. What Is The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally? If you made it this far in your search, you likely know the Sturgis Rally is an 84-year old gathering of like-minded individuals who share a love for motorcycling and the freedom of the road. The Sturgis Rally started as a race between a few friends. Since then, it has become a ten-day bike rally with rides, bike shows, and concerts unlike anywhere else in the world. The Sturgis Rally is known for some of the best motorcycle riding in the world, unique concert settings, and crazy events that create smiles from ear to ear. But Sturgis is more than just a series of events. It’s the feeling of outrunning a storm through the Black Hills, enjoying a “we’re not gonna take it” moment at a Buffalo Chip Twisted Sister concert, and gawking at eye-catching hand-built bikes. The Rally is a state of being. It’s the wind and sun on your face as you ride past Mount Rushmore. It is a laugh with lifelong friends. It is a memory you’ll cherish forever. When Is The 2024 Sturgis Rally? The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally starts on the first Friday of August every year. The 81st Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is August 1 through 11, 2024. The Sturgis Rally Pre-Party starts on August 1, 2024, at the Buffalo Chip. Where Is The Sturgis Bike Rally? The Sturgis Rally takes place in the Black Hills of South Dakota. Multiple promoters organize and promote the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally: Sturgis Buffalo Chip, Lamphere Ranch, Full Throttle Saloon, Glencoe Campresort, Black Hills Harley-Davidson, and the City of Sturgis, to name a few. Who Owns The Sturgis Rally? NOBODY OWNS THE STURGIS MOTORCYCLE RALLY. Since day 1, the Sturgis Rally has been by bikers for bikers. Not by the city government, for bikers. In 2018, the Eighth Circuit Court made that fact clear when they ruled that 100s of private entities have organized the Sturgis Rally over the years. “We agree and hold that the jury could not infer from the onerous planning that the City undertakes to provide infrastructure for the Rally that the City was the organizer or sponsor of the Rally. To allow such an inference would be tantamount to saying that it would be reasonable to infer that the City of New York organizes the sessions of the United Nations General Assembly because of everything it does to assist their occurrence.” The court went on to say that an organization cannot establish ownership “simply by getting its officials and agents to say that it is.” Corporate sponsors paid millions of dollars to the City of Sturgis for the right to use false trademarks over the years. Will sponsors who paid for licensing to use those false trademarks want their money back? Read the articles explaining the historic ruling here: https://dev.sturgis.com/sturgismotorcyclerally/news/will-the-sturgis-motorcycle-rally-be-canceled-sturgis-rally-is-on-say-businesses-even-if-city-opts-out https://dev.sturgis.com/blog/sturgis-rally-trademark-officially-struck-down When Did The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Start? A local racing club called the Jackpine Gypsies started the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in 1938. The Jackpine Gypsies Club was founded in 1936 by local Indian dealer Clarence “Pappy” Hoel, who later started the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally as a series of races and stunts. The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally originally began as a two-day event called the “Black Hills Motor Classic.” The Jackpine Gypsies continue to host races annually outside of the Sturgis City Limits in Meade County. In 2020, the City of Sturgis attempted an unsuccessful hostile annexation of the Jackpine Gypsies’ property. The Jackpine Gypsies successfully petitioned to bring the forced annexation attempt to vote and won. Should I Register For The Sturgis Rally Or Just Show Up? Have you ever shown up to a destination wishing someone was there to tell you about all the best things to see and do? Sure you have! Discovering the best that the Sturgis Rally has to offer can be overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be this way. You can begin your Sturgis Rally adventure by connecting with a friendly face, picking up a Welcome Packet, and free Sturgis Rally Ride Pin and Patch at the Sturgis Rally Information Center™! Sometimes all you need to help make your trip frustration-free is the opportunity to ask someone for a recommendation on what to do and see. Check out the Sturgis.com Official Sturgis Rally Registration. You’ll be glad you did. Where To Stay In Sturgis During The Motorcycle Rally? Where you should stay during the Sturgis Rally depends on you. If you want the traditional authentic Sturgis Rally experience, the best place to stay during the Sturgis Rally would be at a campground like the Sturgis Buffalo Chip. The Buffalo Chip is the original “by bikers for bikers” campground. It opened when the City of Sturgis kicked bikers out of town and is the original
As Predicted By A Real Biker – A Dystopian Future Of The Sturgis Rally
Love[movie trailer voice] In a world… where real bikers no longer exist and the niche culture is merely a curiosity to the rest of the world… Where the Sturgis Rally is reduced to just sightseeing by urban tourists with live music, food vendors and children’s entertainment. Where it has nothing to do with bikers – just like those reenactments of the Old West and the Civil War for tourists. Where only the cops will have real motorcycles and guns, we’ll see something like a Macy’s parade, and a franchise model to get other cities to run Sturgis Rallies around the world. Can’t make it? Don’t worry, there will be virtual reality options to make it feel like you’re right there in the action. How do you see the future changing? Is it anything like Wayfarer’s at Bikernet.com? Tell us in the comments below. Now that an actual biker has given their two cents, read on to see the future predicted as written by AI. The Future of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Might Surprise You The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally has been an iconic destination for motorcycle enthusiasts and music lovers since 1981. Over the past few decades, the Rally has seen major improvements, provided countless unforgettable experiences and cemented its status as a mecca for motorcycle culture. As we peer into the crystal ball and attempt to envision the future, let’s explore what the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally might look like in 50 years. Technological Advancements: In 50 years, the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is likely to embrace a plethora of technological advancements. You can anticipate the integration of cutting-edge technology to enhance the overall experience for visitors. Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) may transport attendees to immersive virtual environments, allowing them to relive the rally’s historic moments or explore fantasy worlds on the fringes of their imaginations. Autonomous vehicles might become the norm, allowing attendees to travel effortlessly around the city and beyond. Smart infrastructure will likely be in place, providing a seamless and interconnected experience for all attendees, from advanced ticketing systems to smart wristbands for entry, payments, and personalized recommendations for popular destinations, like the Sturgis Buffalo Chip. Expanded Entertainment and Experiences: As the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally looks toward the future, the realm of entertainment is bound to undergo transformation. Music, which has always been a cornerstone of the rally, will likely evolve to include a diverse range of genres and performances by holographic and virtual artists. Imagine witnessing legendary musicians of the past resurrected on stage through holographic technology, captivating audiences with their timeless hits. The Rally could feature more state-of-the-art performance venues, incorporating interactive elements and advanced audiovisual setups. Attendees may find themselves immersed in 360-degree audio experiences, transcending traditional concert settings. The inclusion of emerging technologies like haptic feedback suits could allow visitors to feel the music pulsating through their bodies. Community and Global Reach: The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally has fostered a close-knit community over the years, bringing together motorcycle enthusiasts from around the world. In the next 50 years, you can anticipate the Rally expanding its global reach even further. With the advent of advanced communication technologies, attendees may be able to connect and interact with enthusiasts from different parts of the globe, creating a truly international community. Virtual attendance could become a reality, enabling motorcycle lovers who are unable to physically be present at the Rally to participate remotely. Livestreams and virtual reality experiences might provide a front-row seat to concerts and events, transcending geographical boundaries. Envisioning the future of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in 50 years is a thrilling exercise that combines imagination and technological trends. While no one can predict the specifics with certainty, it is likely that the Rally will embrace emerging technologies and expand its global community. Sincerely, Artificial Intelligence Ladies and gentlemen, the future is already here. This whole article up to this point was written in about 10 seconds by Chat GPT, an artificial intelligence chat bot. We can take some comfort in seeing how unimaginative and dry Chat GTP made this article and predictions. The great and fearful A.I. doesn’t seem all that worrisome when you realize it has no true imagination for what the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally could become. Still, imagining the future is freakin’ crazy. With how far the Rally has come in 83 years, a lot of the things that this robot suggested for the next 50 years are not really that out of reach. But the traditions built at the Rally are important, and some things will never change, like the Sturgis Buffalo Chip’s four pillars of what you come for – Music, Motorcycles, Freedom, and Friendship. And we can guarantee what will never change is the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally’s dedication to providing the center for motorcycle enthusiasts and the Buffalo Chip’s mission to put smiling faces on otherwise plain boring heads. Cheers, An Actual Human Love
#1 Requested Artist to Play Sturgis Buffalo Chip® 2024
LoveJelly Roll will headline Aug. 6, 2024 at The Best Party Anywhere® Sturgis, SD (November 9, 2023): Sturgis Buffalo Chip fans prayed for Jelly Roll, and he is exactly what they are getting this coming Sturgis Rally. On Aug. 6, 2024, Jelly Roll brings his one-of-a-kind brand of soulful musical poetry to The Largest Music Festival in Motorcycling®. Concerts are free with a campground admission pass. Passes are available at BuffaloChip.com and for the next six days only the Chip is offering multi-day packages for 50% off. Southern hip-hop maestro turned country star Jelly Roll is not merely an artist; he’s a lyrical preacher whose verses echo the deepest corners of the soul. Hits from his latest album, “Whitsitt Chapel,” stand as a testament to his poetic prowess, capturing human struggles with unparalleled authenticity. Recently, Jelly Roll’s musical sermons have earned him several awards including the CMT Music Award for Male Video of the Year and the fan-voted People’s Choice Country Award for Male Artist of 2023. Countless faithful fans have experienced Jelly Roll’s Backroad Baptism on tour stops across the country, and now Buffalo Chip guests will hear the gospel of Jelly Roll come August. “Jelly is on a roll,” said Sturgis Buffalo Chip President Rod Woodruff. “Not only is he one of the most popular country artists in the world right now, but he is also the number one requested artist to play the 84th Sturgis Rally according to Buffalo Chip social media polls. After seeing everyone’s requests for Jelly, we just had to have him here for a party like no other.” Jelly Roll is the first of dozens of bands to be announced to play at the Chip in 2024, with next announcement scheduled for November 16. Fans who would like to request their favorite band can do so at BuffaloChip.com/Requests. In addition to world-class entertainment like Jelly Roll, Buffalo Chip guests can experience thrilling events, legendary rides, powerful freedom celebrations, top-tier bike shows, heart-pounding stunts, white-knuckle racing, worthwhile charity events and more during the 2024 event. The festival runs Aug. 2-11, 2024. For a full list of Sturgis Buffalo Chip events, see BuffaloChip.com/EVENTS. The Buffalo Chip is home to the Sturgis Rally Information Center™ and is the official sponsor of the free Sturgis.com Official Sturgis Rally Registration Program. ## About the Sturgis Buffalo Chip The Sturgis Buffalo Chip® is the award-winning leader in music and motorcycle lifestyle experiences. Hailed as The Largest Music Festival in Motorcycling® and The Best Party Anywhere®, it has been the epicenter of the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally since its establishment in 1981. Every August, the Buffalo Chip brings together the world’s largest gathering of music and motorcycle fans, with visitors from all 50 states and over 20 countries. It remains one of the world’s most televised and longest-running independent music festivals. The Chip advances the Sturgis Rally by being home to the Sturgis Rally Information Center™ and the official sponsor of the Sturgis.com Official Sturgis Rally Registration Program. More details are available at BuffaloChip.com Further Inquiries: Cody Ertman cody.ertman@buffalochip.com 605-347-9000 Love
The Little Known Rowdy Sturgis Secret: Camp Zero
LoveForget everything you think you know about the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally and start from ZERO. Over the years there’s been a lot of debate about what Sturgis is or isn’t, and who it is or isn’t for. “It’s just a bunch of big wheel baggers.” “It’s not my scene.” “There’s nothing there for me.” Insert any number of other zero fun or legit excuses. A few years back, the Sturgis Buffalo Chip decided to call BS on that line of thinking. The Buffalo Chip asked themselves, if you’re with the largest gathering of moto enthusiasts and music festival fans in the world and you can’t make a new scene or your own scene, whose fault is that, really? If you want to do your thing just start by getting your friends together and doing your thing. Don’t worry about who’s soiling their pants from flexing too hard down the street. So, that’s exactly what The Chip did… they soiled their pants with dirt instead. Camp Zero was built in 2018 by a group of folks who wanted to ditch the preconceived notion of what the Sturgis Rally is and party like 1980s animals who love rad bikes and wild parties. #Zero OGs like @DaymonWoodruff the Unsung Zero, Jesse Andersanchez @Jessebytheslice, Tanner Preedo @montanner17, Brady McClean from @GoFastDontDie, Cosmo Varriano @cosmoschoppers, Big Joe Mielke from @SnapFabrications, Jason Lightner from the @TheGambler500, @pgarvin from J&P Cycles, @KellyYazdi from Ride Wild, Brad Schneck @video.brad, @MotoLady Alicia Elfving and others all contributed to creating a space to push back against the perception that the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is filled with old men and big baggers who think that there is no room for riding anything else. ZERO truly is the launch site for raising hell and rallying like the old days. Were you in on this rowdy Sturgis secret? If you were there, take a walk down memory lane. If you missed it, picture this: In the southeast part of the Sturgis Buffalo Chip, you grabbed a beer from your favorite bartender at Zero bar, a punk rock bar that was built inside of an 80-year-old barn. Whether you’re into minibike shenanigans, Sasha’s Cycle’s motorcycle rodeo, an incredible Sportster Showdown and Mini Bike show, wild parties, Harley wheelies, wicked burnouts or just hanging out with insanely cool people, you found yourself knee-deep in the madness that is Camp Zero @campzerosturgis. Everyday between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., you kept your name at the top of the time trial list as you ran the fastest time around Camp Zero’s notorious Hell Track. This open track was available to race alone, with someone, on your own bike, or someone else’s. It didn’t matter, you just. Went. Fast. Camp Zero’s #UnsungZeros made sure the grass clippins were out of the way as you tested your minibike skills and speed. You raced with the best as you battled to win the top spot in the Pull-Start Barrel Racing event. You celebrated choppers, talked chop, and had a good time during an evening of old-school rodeo games during @SashasCyclesofSturgis Sasha’s Cycle’s Rodeo Games. From the weenie bite, slow races and cowboy barrel cross to a rail ride, highway cones, barrel races and more, this was a night to saddle up for. You headed over to one of the weirdest and wildest events at Camp Zero, the Mini Bike Rodeo where road barrel/keg dragging, pool noodle jousting, and flip cup races were just a few things to do. It’s a good thing you brought your cowboy hat! You stumbled upon a mind-blowing collection of customized Sportster models and a large dose of memorable mayhem. Led Sled Customs @ledsledcustoms hosted a free-to-enter communal event celebrating the history, culture, and diversity of one of the coolest bikes in existence, the Harley-Davidson Sportster, along with Biltwell, Metzeler, S&S Cycle, J&P Cycles, Cycle Source, Lowbrow Customs, and Chop Cult. The grass race to top all grass races. You grabbed your Coleman @colemanpowersports_usa mini bike and a buddy and headed to the Race Pit Area in the Powersports Complex where you participated in a head-to-head event where you proved once and for all that you are the fastest grasser out there. After the Sportster Showdown and Mini Bike Show for Anarchy Games, you showed up on a bike/mini bike and survived the Gauntlet and caught some airtime. Being punk rock isn’t always just about jumping minibikes and beer wall smashes – though, those things ARE pretty rad. It’s also about making sure that the space that surrounds you is cleaner than it was when you got there. The Gambler 500 @thegambler500 mini bike and scoot crew cleaned the ditches next to the highway leading into Camp Zero, and you helped them. Zero is the point from which a positive or a negative are reckoned. Zero is the Jump off point for all things that move forward. If you are going to start over, you must start at zero. Jump in, jump off, or stand there staring while your friends egg you on. Everyone starts at zero. Forget everything you think you know and start at Zero. Yeah, it is a good time. Annnnnnnnnnd it means something. Love
2023 Sturgis Rally Attendance – How Big Was The 2023 Sturgis Rally?
LoveThe 2023 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Attendance Was Down 8.1%. Now that the books have officially closed on another incredible Sturgis Rally, everyone is asking the same question – How big was the 83rd Sturgis Rally in 2023? This year’s 2023 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally attendance was down from 2022. Read on to see how the numbers break down. What was the Sturgis Rally Attendance in 2023? SD Department of Transportation reported traffic counts of 458,161. The DOT Reported the 2023 Sturgis Rally Attendance of 458,161 Was Down 8.1% from 2022 According to the official traffic numbers released by the South Dakota Department of Transportation, the 83rd Rally in 2023 was not nearly as big as 82nd in 2022, with 497,835 vehicles. The South Dakota Department Of Transportation gathers these numbers from road tube counters placed at nine locations around the Sturgis region. One vehicle is counted for every two axles that hit the counter on their way into town. The full DOT report on the Sturgis Rally can be found on the DOT Website. The South Dakota Office of Highway Safety reports that DUI arrests, citations, warnings, non-injury crashes, and injury crashest, were all down. Misdemeanor drug arrests, felony drug arrests, and fatalities were all up. See more rally statistics from the South Dakota Office of Highway Safety. 2023 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally taxes were down 6%. According to the South Dakota Department of Revenue, tax collections at the 2023 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally are currently at $1,446526, down 6% from 2022. 2024 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Dates When is the 84th Sturgis Rally? The 2024 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is scheduled for Aug. 2-11, 2024. Get a jumpstart on 2024 by registering for the rally and receiving your free welcome packet at Sturgis.com/registration. Love
A Sturgis Rally Kickoff Party That Speaks Only the Language of “Hell Yeah,” Screams, “Give it to Me, Baby,” and Inspires Your Legs to Move of Their Own Accord – Officially.
LoveEighty-three years ago, a man named Pappy knew that to throw a proper party you had to set the right mood. If he were advising on first dates, that might include a flower on the seat, a bottle of wine on moonlit haystacks and her arms wrapped around you when you…ride home. But Pappy wasn’t there to stare deep into your eyes and make babies. Instead, he was about to launch the world’s largest motorcycle rally – a party he knew would require high energy, entertainment, and, let’s not forget, smiling faces. There’s more to the formula you don’t know. First, let’s be honest. When someone invites you to an event, you ask yourself, “Is that worth submitting a vacation request, packing gear, and pushing myself up off this couch?” “Does it make my spirit say, ‘Hell yeahs,’ my heart scream, ‘Give it to me, baby,’ and my legs move in that direction by themselves?” The reality is that to commit to spicing up your life, it needs to satisfy a deep curiosity, be part of something authentic, and make you feel more alive. Getting out the door shouldn’t be that hard, but sometimes it is. That’s why, on the very first kickoff of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, WHAT DID PAPPY HOEL DO? He smashed through a wall of fire! (SURPRISE!) He threw a picnic. (FREE FOOD, GUYS!!!) He had friends lock handlebars while going fast around corners on motorcycles. (WHO KNEW IT’D BE SO MUCH FUN?) Saying it without saying it, Pappy said, WE AREN’T HERE ONLY TO RACE. WE’RE HERE TO LET LOOSE, ENTERTAIN EACH OTHER, SLAP BACKS, AND SMILE. At that original festivity, you bet that more than one person experienced their first “Holy S***!” moment and talked about it with their friends after. Although we find comfort in the known, predictable and commonplace, it’s the unusual, random, and surprising that cements a place in our memories, flavors our stories and impacts our lives, sometimes even changing them. The Legendary Buffalo Chip understands this when planning its Sturgis Rally Kickoff Party. They know you don’t come to read “The Art of Motorcycle Maintenance” in your tent; you do that at home between monotonous, on-repeat workdays. Repeat doesn’t belong at a good party. Each smile should feel fresher than the last. Otherwise, you’re not at the Best Party Anywhere. Ironically, one thing people will repeat is the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Not because of an addiction to Jager Bombs, deepening connections with friends, and smiles that grow into laughs that hurt. Well yeah, that. But also, because even the 10th time you visit, there is a new takeaway, friend, and smile to find. You can fall in love, lust, and get married at the rally. You can come for decades, make more friends than you have back home, and request that your friends spread your ashes there. I received an email the other day that read, “My husband recently passed away. He rode to Sturgis starting in 1961 and rode there for his last ride in 2022. He attended 61 years consecutively. Everyone thought he must have been a badass. No, he was just a biker obsessed with Sturgis.” The rally touches you in unusual, random and unexpected ways. Every year is different, exciting, and new, which is why we celebrate life at Sturgis. You might not be surprised to find there’s still a strong tradition of smashing through walls to kick off the party. This time, however, the smashing comes with a twist. In the spirit of Pappy, the founder of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, Joe Mielke and I will smash through a wall of 1,440 cans of beer, not fire, with homemade battering rams mounted to the front of our bikes to welcome in the Buffalo Chip’s Official Sturgis Rally Kickoff Party. Why beer? Because a wall of fire seems so, you know, 1938. And we’d like to open some refreshments for you. To add spice to the excitement, Jason Lightner and his entourage will follow through the spurting wreckage in a motorized couch, two-wheeled Sea-Doo, boat, mini bikes, other mechanical creations, and a street roller to finish the job. But the Beer Wall Smash is only a tiny part of the fun that will get you off the couch and kickstart the rally with a bash. This year, join a parade of motorcyclists into The Largest Music Festival in Motorcycling’s amphitheater for the “grandest first day in Sturgis Rally history.” The party begins at the Big Engine Bar with the Support Bikers Moto Meetup. Then, line up and parade into the amphitheater. The Buffalo Chip Bikini Models will take the stage with their “Everything But Clothes!” Homemade Bikini Contest. Next, the Hot Hunks will face off against the gals, show off their homemade mankinis, and keep the smiles coming. We’ll also get serious and recognize that all this fun is a freedom we don’t take for granted with the Star-Spangled Banner and, with the help of your throttle hand, a thunderous roar at the front of the stage to power up The Best Party Anywhere and welcome in ZZ TOP at the no. 1 Sturgis Rally destination—the Sturgis Buffalo Chip!! If this all seems a bit unusual, the kickoff is meant to remind us why we left the confines of our boring jobs, help us escape the scrutiny and stresses of everyday life, and set the tone for the next nine days of music, motorcycles, freedom and friends. It might even set the tone for your future. If that rings true to you, here’s what you should do. Get out the door. Leave your work and routine behind. Add unusual, random, surprising excitement to your life, and join the Not So Unusual – Officially Part of a Long Tradition – Sturgis Rally Kickoff Party at the Legendary Buffalo Chip. That’s the rest of the formula for an unprecedented-level good time. Now, stop reading and go have a blast! Your spirit, heart, and legs are already taking you there. Love
Death Wire Brings Life Full Circle ?
Love It takes a spectacle to want to spectate, a death survivor challenging death to make it spectacular, and the headline “Are These Guys Going to Die?” to remind you that consequences are serious. But you don’t know the half of it. Yet. If you overheard a man’s voice say, “My girlfriend’s elephant is too old to breed,” your ears would perk up, your left eye would squint in disbelief, and, while turning your head to see who it was, you’d ask yourself, “Did I hear that right?” When you did, you’d find a stocky man in a red silk shirt smiling back at you, continuing with the words, “The U.S. elephant gene pools are in trouble because it’s illegal to import elephant semen.” Knock, Knock. Who’s there? Reality Check. Yes, this was a real conversation. The man speaking was Blake Wallenda. Chances are, you haven’t met anyone in the world like Blake. Hearing him talk only takes seconds to recognize that his conversation topics aren’t the only extraordinary thing about him. You see, Blake grew up in a world straight out of children’s stories. In that world, he developed a rare skill. Blake’s a Highwire Walker. Blake is the great-grandson of Karl Wallenda – a skywalker known for performing dangerous feats and breaking world records. The legacy of the Wallendas goes back over 300 years. Blake carries on the bold tradition of his family despite Karl dying when he fell from a highwire, other Wallendas dying or becoming crippled for life, and himself nearly dying when he fell in 2017 from a human highwire pyramid but was able to stop himself by grabbing and holding onto the wire. On Aug. 10, Blake’s about to attempt something so uniquely dangerous with Wall of Death motorcycle daredevil Kyle Ives at the Sturgis Buffalo Chip that you’ll have to see it to grasp the magnitude of the feat taking place. It’s a story, unlike any story in the history of time. A real once-in-a-lifetime tongue wagger, “Whoahhhhhh” maker, and eye popper because what Blake and Kyle are about to do has never been done and never will be again. Only one thing is predictable. If you’re there, it’s a tale you’ll tell for the rest of your life. The additional surprise is that Blake Wallenda and Kyle Ives aren’t where this story begins. It starts with a man named Shawn Ives. A throat cancer survivor. And Kyle’s father. Shawn was mentored by Karl Wallenda and went on to walk highwire. He later became a motorcycle daredevil and now runs the rare Wall of Death daredevil exhibition with Kyle and his other son, Cody. Shawn Ives (right) Shawn’s life took a twist a few days before the 2020 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally when he felt a lump in his neck while setting up the Wall of Death at the Sturgis Buffalo Chip. It was cancer. He spent the following year battling the disease and won, but if you ask Shawn about his fight against cancer, he chokes up and forces out the words, “It’s like having the worst hangover you’ve ever had, every day, for a year.” He will also tell you, “When you go through something like cancer, you need someone beside you, rooting for you. I’m grateful for my wife. And proud of my sons.” In addition to working with the Wallendas, Shawn’s family had bonded with the Knievel family over the years. Kyle and Cody learned to ride and jump motorcycles at an early age. According to Shawn, one day, Evel Knievel was sitting on the back of their truck bed, watching the two Ives kids jump their motorcycles, when Shawn leaned into Evel and said, “I hope that someday my kids will be as good as you.” Evel responded, “From what I can see, they’re already better.” In 2022, Evel’s son Robbie Knievel died of pancreatic cancer. Robbie had jumped at the Buffalo Chip many times over the years, including over its main stage and in its amphitheater. When Robbie passed away, Shawn had an idea that would bring all of the elements of his life together full circle: Knievel, a tribute to Robbie, his time with the Wallendas, his family legacy, the Buffalo Chip, and cancer fundraising. Shawn dreamt up the idea that he would face death again. This time by choice. Shawn approached Woody, the CEO of The Chip, “I want to do a jump at the Sturgis Buffalo Chip to raise funds for cancer and pay homage to Robbie.” Rod and Shawn concocted a plan and agreed that a run-of-the-mill ramp-to-ramp jump wouldn’t suffice. They would “need to do something truly spectacular.” A little research revealed that on October 20, 1973, Evel Knievel cleared 13 cars with a broken upper back while Karl Wallenda wire-walked overhead. This inspired Shawn to invite Blake Wallenda to high-wire walk over the Chip’s amphitheater before the Def Leppard concert. Still, to be spectacular and push this death-defying legacy to a new level, “Someone should jump over Blake.” Naturally, Shawn volunteered his son, Kyle! The stakes were high, but both Kyle and Blake embraced the challenge. The jump was on. They aimed to accomplish a life-threatening performance even history’s greatest daredevils hadn’t dared before. They would risk their lives attempting The Death Wire Daredevil Spectacular! To spice up the show, Shawn announced he would also do a 10-car jump on an HD XG-750 street bike. The Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation agreed to create a Ride For Kids to the Chip fundraiser to allow riders to raise money on their journey to Sturgis to see the performance. It’s not hard to imagine what will happen if they fail. However, the glory of success is unparalleled if they make it. No one, especially no true biker, should want to miss this incredible event. “Thinking back on the moments in my life and knowing that they are all wrapped up in this one event is unbelievable to me.” reflects Shawn, “What we are doing
3 Reasons You Must Attend the 2023 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally
LoveA good adventure is one that doesn’t leave you feeling the same-ole-same-ole, adds excitement to your life, and truly gives you a new story to tell. You may have had one or two that changed your life. And you’ve talked about them non-stop since – the pleasant surprise you had when you discovered that sign at the top of the pass that said “Curves Next 80 Miles,” the sudden hail storm that forced you into a stranger’s driveway who invited you in for coffee and a chat, and later, the tequila, the Aerosmith concert where the singer fell off the stage, and waking up in the wrong tent. Whoops. The truth is that good adventures are few and far between. That’s why when an opportunity threatens to hit you in the face like a flying brick, you should take a moment to see where it’s coming from. In this instance, that proverbial brick heading your way is the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, specifically the Legendary Sturgis Buffalo Chip. If you have yet to pay attention, you may have missed their promise to womp you good, pump you up with some excitement and get your adventure fix in 2023 with a triple dose of never-to-be-repeated experiences. From death-defying stunts to legendary rock performances and an unforgettable kickoff party, you’ll genuinely do once-in-a-lifetime so many times in one visit that you’ll need a bandage and extra padding to protect your chin from all the times your jaw drops clear to the ground. If all goes according to plan, you should leave the 2023 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally with a perma smile stretched across your face and a jaw ready to rattle off a slew of stories that can’t be one-upped. This blog will tell you straight up why you must attend the 2023 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. The Death Wire Daredevil Spectacular Unlike anything you’ve ever witnessed, Thursday, Aug. 10, will be an adrenaline-pumping spectacle when Blake Wallenda, a fearless highwire artist, will attempt “The Death Wire Walk” over the Sturgis Buffalo Chip amphitheater. As he braves the treacherous heights, daredevil Kyle Ives will attempt a motorcycle jump over Blake. This act will test their limits and leave you holding your breath. It’s easy to imagine what it will be like if they fail. But imagine how thrilling the excitement will be should they succeed. The significance of this death-defying feat cannot be overstated. Even iconic daredevils Evel Knievel and Karl Wallenda never dared to attempt it. The Death Wire Daredevil Spectacular will also feature ramp-to-ramp jumps by Shawn Ives, Sherco Trials Stunts, and other captivating activities that will leave you in awe. Def Leppard at The Best Party Anywhere® On Thursday, Aug. 10, legendary multi-platinum band Def Leppard hits the Sturgis Music and Motorcycle Festival stage for only the second time in history. Motorcycle enthusiasts and music lovers who’ve had the chance to experience it can agree that the Buffalo Chip’s reputation as The Best Party Anywhere® is well-deserved. The energy and excitement of the happy, smiling faces create a pulsating atmosphere and unforgettable memories. The Buffalo Chip Official Sturgis Rally Kickoff Party The festivities kick off with a bang at the Sturgis Rally’s Official Kickoff Party and Parade. The first official activity starts at the Buffalo Chip’s Big Engine Bar with the Support Bikers Moto Meetup at 4 pm. The parade lineup begins at 5 pm. At 6:00 pm, hundreds of riders will ride the mile to the amphitheater, where ZZ Top will perform later that night. Once inside the Buffalo Chip amphitheater, the party continues with a Beer Wall Smash, an exhilarating Star-Spangled Banner performance, and live entertainment from the winner of the Sturgis Battle of the Bands. The climax of the evening will come with the iconic rock band ZZ Top. And if that wasn’t enough, the International Bikini Team will add a touch of glamour parading around the stage. The Official Sturgis Rally Kickoff Party sets the tone for an unforgettable Sturgis Motorcycle Rally experience. It brings together the essence of camaraderie, patriotism, and high-octane entertainment that defines the rally. The down and dirty of it is that when you feel the music, revelry, and electric atmosphere, you’ll understand why the Sturgis Rally is renowned worldwide as the ultimate gathering for motorcycle enthusiasts. There’s no other way to slice it. The 2023 Sturgis Rally will be an extraordinary adventure at the Buffalo Chip. The original destination that brought music and motorcycles together has become synonymous with the excitement, freedom, and true spirit of the Sturgis Rally. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a music enthusiast, or simply seeking an experience that will leave an indelible mark on your life, 2023 presents the answer to each. August 4, 2023, marks a spot on the calendar for an incredible journey to the heart of motorcycle culture. There, courageous daredevils will push the limits of possibility and make history. Timeless melodies and electrifying energy of rock legends will thread people together in a way that only music and authentic human connection can. A celebration with fellow bikers united in a passion for freedom, friends, and the open road awaits for you to step out your front door, lay a leg over your ride, and lean into the adventure. 2023 offers an unforgettable chapter in the rally’s storied history. From the death-defying Death Wire Daredevil Spectacular, featuring Blake Wallenda and Kyle Ives, to the iconic rock performance by Def Leppard, and the unforgettable Buffalo Chip Official Sturgis Rally Kickoff Party, three once-in-a-lifetime experiences threaten you with a good time you cannot miss. If you want to join the adventure of a lifetime, go to sturgis.com for more information! Love
