Excitement builds for 86 th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally

STURGIS – With just days remaining until the official opening of the 86th Sturgis
Motorcycle Rally, excitement is building for a celebration of motorcycles, freedom, and
America’s 250th anniversary.

The 86th Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, set for Aug. 7-16, carries the theme “America
250” honoring the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

“This year’s Rally is about celebrating what brings people to Sturgis year after year –
freedom, friendship, patriotism, and the chance to experience some of the most
beautiful rides in America," said Mayor Rod Bradley. "As our nation marks 250 years of
independence, there's no better place to celebrate that spirit than right here in the Black
Hills:.

The festivities actually begin Wednesday, Aug. 5, with the annual Police Chief’s Ride,
led by Sturgis Police Chief Geody VanDewater. The ride gives participants an
opportunity to explore some of the Black Hills most scenic roads while enjoying the
camaraderie that has become a hallmark of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.

“It’s a relaxed ride and a chance to connect with people before the Rally really gets
rolling” VanDewater said. “Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a longtime Rally
attendee, you’ll quickly discover the friendships are just as memorable as the ride”.

The Rally officially opens Friday, Aug. 7, with the Opening Ceremony on Main Street,
where riders from across the country and around the world will gather to kick off another
unforgettable Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. The parade through downtown will be at about
2:45 p.m. with Opening Ceremony at Harley-Davidson Rally Point at 3 p.m.
1040 Harley-Davidson Way, Sturgis, SD 57785, (605) 347-4422, www.sturgis-sd.gov

The celebration continues Saturday, Aug. 8, with the 24th Annual Mayor’s Ride, led by
Mayor Bradley and 2026 Grand Marshal Tim Duffy, a retired FDNY firefighter, 9/11
survivor, and member of the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum Hall of Fame Class of 2026.
The ride showcases the beauty of the Black Hills while raising funds for local Sturgis
charities.

“There is something special about riding through the Black Hills with friends you’ve
known for years and people you’ve just met” Bradley said. “That’s the magic of Sturgis.
Motorcycles have a way of bringing people together, no matter where riders come from”.
As riders make their way to Sturgis, they’ll experience more than legendary roads and
world-class riding. They’ll become part of a tradition that has celebrated freedom,
community, and the American spirit for 86 years.

Registration Links
Police Chief’s Ride: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2026-police-chiefs-ride-tickets-
1990526209476
24th Annual Mayor’s Ride: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/24th-annual-sturgis-mayors-
ride-tickets-1990505602841