by Mary Panerio | May 28, 2026
The Sturgis Buffalo Chip’s Custom Series is the largest series of bike shows in the world, featuring 13 unique shows plus one dedicated motorcycle exhibit, Motorcycles As Art.
While the custom machines draw the crowds, it’s the builders, curators, and organizers behind the scenes who make it all happen. This is a look at the people who bring the shows to life — without the spotlight, but with all the passion.
by Mary Panerio | Apr 30, 2026
A record number of contestants stepped up, showed off and made it very hard to look away at the 2026 Sturgis Buffalo Chip Poster Model Search semifinals. With 55 contestants lighting up the stage at 707 Nightlife in Rapid City, the competition was fierce and the judges had their work cut out for them. Now, 27 finalists are moving on to the next round at Robbinsdale Lounge on May 2, 2026. Thanks to sponsors Twisted Tea, Cassio’s Tattoo Gallery, Mr. Liquor, Pepsi, Sailor Jerry, Sturgis Harley-Davidson and XROCK, one winner will walk away with over $18,000 in cash and prizes and a year in the spotlight representing the number one Sturgis Rally destination as the face of the Best Party Anywhere®.
by Mary Panerio | Feb 11, 2026
It would’ve been hard to predict what the Sturgis Buffalo Chip® would be like today had you asked the first bikers who rolled through the gates in 1982. Back then the original By Bikers, For Bikers® event looked a bit more like a three-day keg party in a pasture, with a handful of bands and a few hundred friends.
The early days of the Best Party Anywhere® may have been small by today’s standards, but those who attended knew they had stumbled upon something special.
by Mary Panerio | Feb 10, 2026
It doesn’t matter if you’re the next Hendrix, can burp your ABCs or are simply riding a streak of luck. There’s a way for anyone to get on stage at the Sturgis Buffalo Chip. If you’d like to walk in the very footsteps of some of the most legendary names in music and spend a moment in the spotlight make sure you check out these five simple ways that can land you a spot on the Chip stage.
by Mackenzie Glover | Jan 27, 2026
Come along for the ride through the Buffalo Chip’s 45 years with photos that capture the heart, soul, and debauchery.
