The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in Sturgis, South Dakota is held annually and attracts nearly one million visitors each and every year. If you have ever attended this week long rally, you are most likely already planning your trip to next year’s event. However, if you have never been to the Sturgis Rally, you may be wondering how you should begin planning for your trip to the awesomely crazy festival. There are a few things that you should keep in mind about the rally and some things that will be helpful to know along the way during your trip. These plans in advance will help you have the best and safest trip possible.
When Exactly Is the Strurgis Rally Held?
The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is held during the first full week of August every year. It is always held on the first full week of Monday through Sunday. Therefore, if the first falls on a Friday, the event would be held on the 4th through the 10th of the month. It always begins on a Monday and ends on a Sunday. This has been the tradition for over 70 years and will most likely remain. The month of August is one of the most pleasant times of year in this region with steady temperatures and enjoyable climate. This only increases the enjoyment for the thousands of visitors. If you are confused about the start and end dates of the event, you can use this information to be sure.
What About Helmets in the Area? Are They Required?
While motorcycle helmets are not a requirement at the event itself in South Dakota unless you are under the age of 18, the laws can differ in other states. If you plan to actually ride your bike to the event, as opposed to hauling it, you may want to check on the laws in other states that you will be traveling through. The American Motorcyclists Association is a great place to contact to find out about all state regulated laws and requirements when it comes to riding your bike.
How Do I Get Tickets to the Various Concerts?
There are many great concerts and events at the Sturgis Rally that are free of charge for all visitors to enjoy. However, many of the concerts will require that you purchase tickets in advance. If you want to get the most out of the experience, it is a good idea to purchase your concert tickets before you go. You should also keep in mind that it is not uncommon for certain concerts to not be announced until just a few days before the scheduled start date. There are many sites where you can purchase exclusive tickets to Sturgis concerts and events.
What About the Safety of the Event and My Personal Belongings?
The police in the area of the Sturgis Rally always advise that you do all that you can to protect yourself, your belongings, and your bike during the rally. It is not uncommon to have your motorcycle or belongings stolen at an event that involves so many people. There are a few things that you can do and should do to ensure the safety of yourself and your belonging.
Never Leave Personal Belongings On Your Bike
Be Aware of Where You Park at All Times
Avoid Dark and Poorly Lit Areas When Parking or Walking
Keep An Eye Out For people Who Seem to be Hanging Around your Belongings
Lock your Motorcycle Every Time You Leave It
High Quality Locks Are Recommended
By being smart and following these recommendations, you can ensure that you have a safe trip and return with everything that you brought with you. Sturgis is a great event but you should do all that you can to make sure that you stay safe in order to have the best time.
Where can I Stay During the Sturgis Rally?
This is perhaps, one of the most common questions that Sturgis planners have. With an event that attracts so many people, how is it possible to find a place to stay? Thankfully, years of experience with being hospitable to this many people has made accommodations in the area much more easy to handle. There are numerous hotels and motels in and surrounding the city of Sturgis and there are a wide variety of different camping sites as well. The state is now perfectly equipped to handle such a magnitude of visitors and you are sure to find many great places to stay. It is a good idea, however, to book your reservations in advance to ensure that you get the place that you want close to the event.
Should I Be Concerned with Bad weather During the Event?
You should absolutely be aware of some bad weather during the Sturgis Rally. This area is prone to heavy winds and hail at this time. As a safety precaution, all Sturgis rally centers are required to provide directions to a storm shelter for its visitors and incorporate a weather warning system to alert of tornadoes or other dangers. It is also helpful to monitor the weather in the areas that you will be traveling through by using your mobile Internet and keeping a close watch on the weather radar. It is always safe to avoid riding in areas that are experiencing bad weather.