Freedom Celebration

Freedom Celebration Honors Military with Full Day of Patriotic Events

Salute Those Who Serve at the Sturgis Buffalo Chip’s Military Tribute!

Supporting active-duty soldiers and veterans has long been a tradition at the Buffalo Chip, and again this year the Chip will be dedicating an entire day to the acknowledgment of these brave men and women. Help honor the past and present members of our military during the 36th annual Freedom Celebration on Thursday, Aug. 13, 2026!

Experience a variety of powerful presentations, moving events and inspiring performances, all specifically designed to recognize those who have selflessly served and, in some instances, sacrificed their lives during the Sturgis Buffalo Chip’s® Military Tribute Day.

In addition to official Freedom Celebration events, you have the opportunity throughout the Rally to honor those who have served by visiting several meaningful military tributes located at Buffalo Chip’s free-access Freedom Field adjacent to the CrossRoads.

Who:

You and your friends.

What:

Buffalo Chip’s 36th Annual Freedom Celebration

When:

Thursday, Aug. 13, 2026
7:00 p.m. – Star Spangled Banner Performance and Bob Hanson Distinguished Service / Patriot Award Presentation
Schedule of all presentations TBA
10:30 p.m. – Headliner Performance

Where:

Sturgis Buffalo Chip® Main Stage located in the Amphitheater

Why:

Honor those who fight for our freedoms.

How:

Reserve your passes now!

Freedom Celebration Events

Color Guard

A military branch color guard will present the colors on the Wolfman Jack Stage followed by a moving rendition of the Star-Spangled Banner.

National Anthem Performance

Each year during the Freedom Celebration at the Sturgis Buffalo Chip, the National Anthem is performed live in a powerful moment of unity and patriotism, honoring the brave and celebrating the freedoms we ride for.

Bob Hanson Distinguished Service & Patriot Awards

Each year the Buffalo Chip chooses members of our military to honor for their courage, sacrifices and heroic patriotism. These awards are presented every year to honorees on the main stage before that night’s headlining performance.

Meet Past Award Recipients

Modified Motorcycle Presentation for Combat Wounded Triple Amputee

Freedom isn’t free, but the modified motorcycle presented to a combat-wounded triple amputee is. The combat-wounded recipient will be announced and presented with the modified motorcycle on the Wolfman Jack Stage during the Freedom Celebration presentations on Thursday, Aug. 13th.

Veteran's Service Dog Presentation

For their dedication to the security of this great nation, Special Operations Wounded Warriors and Baden K9 have teamed up to present a veteran with a specially trained Belgian Malinois on the Buffalo Chip’s main stage prior to the night’s headlining performance.

Action Tracked Wheelchair Presentation

The mission of patriotic clothing brand OP1VET is “Changing the Life of 1 Veteran at a Time.” During the Freedom Celebration, they'll be doubling up by providing freedom, independence and mobility to two disabled veterans when they present them with Action Tracked Wheelchairs on the Buffalo Chip Main Stage. There may be a new, exciting mobility device being presented this year as well.

Freedom Field

A field of 800 flags stands majestically at the entrance to the CrossRoads, paying tribute to those who have sacrificed their lives protecting our nation’s freedoms. Spend a humbling moment paying your respects to the brave men and women who sacrifice everything for us by walking through this impressive display.

More Info

See Schedule

On-Site Veterans Organizations

Special Operations Wounded Warriors

This 501(c)(3) charity was formed in August of 2012 for the distinct purpose of providing outdoor experiences and focused therapeutic retreats to a select group of both active duty and veteran U.S. Military Special Operations Forces that have received wounds (both seen and unseen) in battle or significant training accidents, most of which that have been awarded our country’s prestigious Purple Heart Medal.

Grunt Style Foundation

Established in April of 2021, Grunt Style Foundation is a national nonprofit organization committed to providing life-changing resources and experiences for service members, Veterans, and their families. With a steadfast commitment to its core values—Mental Health and Wellness, Transition and Sustainment, Food Insecurities, and Homelessness–Grunt Style Foundation offers those who served and continue to serve our country their due recognition, honor, and support.

Buddy Poppies

Help the VFW maintain national and state veterans’ rehabilitation and service programs by purchasing a Buddy Poppy! The VFW Post 3312 of Belle Fourche, SD will be selling these symbolic memorial flowers at the East Ticketing Box Office on Thursday Aug. 7.

Other Military Events and Activities

Veterans' Happy Hour Sponsored by Sam Adams American Light

Join us for the Veterans Happy Hour sponsored by Samuel Adams American Light, Aug. 7-14, from 5-6 p.m. on the Amphitheater Grunt Style Deck. Veterans will receive a free beer in honor of their service, and all guests can enter free giveaways throughout the hour! The Happy Hour is proudly hosted by veteran-focused charities and businesses, including SOWW, Op1Vet, Grunt Style Foundation, Heroes Honor Ride, Baden K9, and the Buffalo Chip Freedom Celebration.

Heroes Honor Ride Bike Presentation

A special moment during the Heroes Honor Ride on Sunday, Aug. 9 will include the presentation of a motorcycle to a deserving veteran.

The Annual Raising of the Flags - Saturday, Aug. 1, 2026

Join a proud group of patriotic volunteers for the annual Flag Raising at the Buffalo Chip’s Freedom Field on Saturday, Aug. 1 at 6 p.m. Help place 800 American flags in tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice. This free, family-friendly event includes special guest speakers, food, and fellowship. The flags will remain on display through the end of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally as a powerful symbol of honor and remembrance.

Learn More

“Keep up the good work supporting our troops, Buffalo Chip! It’s evident in all you do.” – Andy Sims