Black Hills, SD — The Black Hills & Badlands Tourism Association (BH&B) announces the launch of Rally Rush 2024, an initiative to welcome motorcyclists to the region and celebrate the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. The campaign is set to run throughout the rally, with special events and activities to show appreciation for bikers visiting the Black Hills & Badlands.
In preparation for Rally Rush, BH&B has distributed posters and window clings to visitor industry businesses throughout the region. To kick off the event, BH&B will greet motorcyclists at the airport with themed items including water, bandanas, stickers, and motorcycle touring maps. BH&B staff will continue to distribute these items at opening ceremonies of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally on August 2.
"Rally Rush is our way of showing gratitude and hospitality to the motorcyclists who make the journey to our beautiful region every year," said Michelle Thomson, President of BH&B. "We want every rider to feel welcomed and appreciated, and we believe that these small gestures will enhance their overall experience."
In addition to BH&B's efforts, communities across the Black Hills & Badlands region are participating in Rally Rush activities. These collaborative efforts aim to highlight the hospitality of the area and encourage bikers to return year after year. Organizations participating in Rally Rush 2024 include: Belle Fourche Chamber of Commerce, Custer Area Chamber of Commerce, Deadwood Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau, Keystone Chamber of Commerce, Murdo Area Economic Development, Black Hills & Badlands Tourism Association, Visit Rapid City, Rochford Community Hall, Visit Spearfish, Sturgis Economic Development, Wall Badlands Area Chamber of Commerce and Hill City Area Chamber of Commerce.
Janet Wetovick-Bily, Director of the Hill City Chamber of Commerce, says "Hill City is thrilled to be a part of the official Travel South Dakota Rally Rush program demonstrating our welcoming hospitality for this motorcycle tradition that brings thousands from the US and all around the globe! We love interacting with our guests, enjoy knowing where they're from, [the]number of years attending Rally, and learning about their South Dakota experience while here."
Hill City has several initiatives planned, including distributing/displaying banners and welcome materials, facilitating the Hill City Seniors’ Biker Breakfast, creating social media posts, and coordinating with lodging partners to assist with last-minute reservations.
In Belle Fourche, the Center of the Nation Business Association (CoNBA) is hosting Rally Refresh, an event that promotes businesses with Rally-week offers. Additionally, the Circle Lounge on State Street will host live music on August 6 and August 10, aligning with the Armed Forces of America Motorcycle Bike Run.
In Spearfish, bikers will see posters and clings on display throughout the town, and the organization, Visit Spearfish, invites Rally participants to pick up Rally Rush microfiber polishing towels, custom cookies, and water at the visitor information center.
Each community and organization listed will have different events; BH&B encourages visitors and locals to explore these events throughout the region and to support this debut Rally Rush.
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Motorcycling is a major draw for South Dakota statewide. It is a tradition for many couples, families and friends across the state and around the country. Travel South Dakota is joining with South Dakota communities to celebrate this tradition with the Rally Rush campaign.
This program offers the opportunity to welcome riders into your communities. Don't miss the chance to get involved. Together, let's put our world-class hospitality on display as we welcome riders from around the world to experience the country's best riding.
