It’s rally time in Custer, Black Hills

It’s mid-August in Custer County, which means we will soon be inundated with our two-wheeled guests as the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally and Custer Cruisin’ rev into high gear this week. The official dates of Custer Cruisin’ are Aug. 6-15, although there are already a growing number of motorcycle enthusiasts in town.

As always, the rally means more congestion in town. If you have business you need to get done downtown—such as filling a prescription, getting a package mailed, etc.—we strongly encourage you to do so before the rally swings into high gear. Plan ahead if you have to go somewhere, as traveling will no doubt take more time, no matter where you are headed. Fill your gas tank up now, and save yourself the hassle of waiting in long lines to do so.

Not everyone enjoys the rally, but it’s important to know that a week’s worth of inconvenience means big bucks to the city and the  businesses that cater to the bikers. For some of the businesses downtown, rally week is their Christmas. More than one business owner downtown will tell you they make more money during rally week than the entire winter, or even several of the summer months combined. The rally brings people, and people bring money. It’s a win-win for everyone. The money those bikers are spending translate to sales tax. That money will eventually be used to pave a road, fix a leak or buy some equipment that will help improve the quality of life in Custer.

Be careful when traveling this week. Motorcycles can be hard to see, and they will be everywhere. Try to get out and do some people-watching, and enjoy the hustle and bustle. And for you bikers—welcome to Custer!