Daytona Bike Week 2024: The Ultimate Guide

January 24th, 1937 was the first Daytona 200 race. Back then, the course was a 3.2-mile beach and pavement course. The first ever winner was Ed Kretz from California, doing an average speed of 73.34 mph on an Indian motorcycle.

The race continued for years, with a break for WW2 that lasted from 1942 to 1947, although there was still an unofficial event called “Bike Week” that took place in this era. When the race resumed in 1947, it was promoted by "Big Bill" France, co-founder of NASCAR.

His family business, now known as International Speedway Corporation, has been promoting the Daytona 200 and all the Bike Week races ever since.

While the event is known as “Bike Week”, the event typically lasts for ten days, usually in March. However, the event dates and duration can vary from year to year.

This year is the 83rd Annual Daytona Bike Week and will be happening from March 1st - 10th, 2024.

Stay up to date on any last-minute changes on Harley-Davidson.com or the official bike week website.

The official Bike Week takes place on Florida's Atlantic Coast, along Daytona Beach. The city of Daytona is most well-known for Daytona International Speedway, home of NASCAR's Daytona 500 race, and as a spring break hot spot.

In addition to hard-packed sand (where driving is permitted in specific areas) there are rides, arcades, a boardwalk, and a bandshell that hosts free summer concerts.

If you need to get out of the city, you'll find St. Augustine, Jacksonville, and Orlando a short ride away.

>> Learn more about Florida motorcycle insurance laws

There is, of course, the running of the Daytona 200, a 200-mile race held at the Daytona International Speedway.

Other events include Burning Bike, which sees the burning of a 75-foot wooden handmade bike covered in messages dedicated to missed loved ones. The event celebrates life, death, and rebirth, featuring fire dancers, live music, a Miss Burning Bike Contest, and more.

You'll also witness the World's Largest V8 Parade, where you'll hear 100 V8s start at once. The Earth will tremble beneath your feet before the largest fleet of V8s conquer the streets of Daytona Beach!

There are multiple ticketing packages to choose from and typically range between $100 - $200 depending on the number of days attended.

If you just want to attend the Daytona 200, tickets cost $45 for general admission.

The official Bike Week Welcome Center can be found at One Daytona One, Daytona Blvd, Daytona Beach, Florida, 32114. Their online home is found here: Official Bike Week.

Bike Week isn't advertised as a kid-friendly event and is geared towards adults. Many of the attractions are more suitable for thrill seekers than casual observers.

But if you love bikes, Daytona Beach Bike Week is your Shangri-La. Many full-time riders come to Bike Week, but most attendees ride to get away from their everyday lives. It's a way to play if just for a couple of days (or for a week!).

Be sure to keep riding safety in mind, as the traffic level is higher than typical!

Daytona's weather will go from spring to summer, so wear your beach day best! Shorts, tanks, tees, sandals, bikinis (and sunblock, too!).

Expect plenty of leather (and pleather for the vegan cyclists). But also expect body paint and at least a few people wearing nothing at all (see: is Daytona Family-Friendly?).

>> Learn more about what to wear when riding a motorcycle

Lightweight synthetic clothing is good for a warmer ride. Ensure you know your motorcycle's weight limit and adjust the tire pressure and suspension. Although, if you're going to bike week, you probably already know that!

You'll want your tickets on your phone so that you always have them on you and your motorcycle insurance info too!

The last thing you want is to make it to Bike Week on time and stay caught up when all your new friends go out for a ride.

>> Explore our motorcycle trip packing list

Expect the weather to be warm and sunny with some extra heat to consider, thanks to all the crowds!

While the weather will be warm, having your rain gear handy for the occasional rain shower is also advisable.

Other than the Daytona 200 and the World's Largest V8 Parade, Bike Week will be home to several shows of note:

• The Giant Antique and Cafe Racer Bike Day and Show, where all stock '84 and older get in for free.

• The Big Wheel Bagger Day and Show, where all Bagger 26' and up get in for free.

• The Leather and Lace MC Annual Motorcycle Rodeo, featuring "old school" rodeo games and the crowd-favorite Chicago Style Bike Show.

>> Learn more about motorcycle group riding rules

Daytona Beach has over 200 properties for you to stay at with over 12,000 rooms. That includes everything from hotels and motels to campgrounds/RV parks.

The Daytona Chamber of Commerce provides a comprehensive and helpful hotel directory.

Most Bike Week activities are beachside on Main Street. The area has a few parking garages, but they may be packed with motorcyclists and require a long wait given the large crowds. Ocean Walk parking garage is just two blocks from Main Street, but can you risk it?!

Unfortunately, the nearby streets will likely only be permit parking, so it'll be tricky to navigate.

Your best bet may be the Daytona International Speedway, which has tons of parking.

As you can expect, Daytona Beach has a lot of great biker bars with great food. Head over to Trip Advisor and Yelp which are great resources to scour the area for the best rally spots in town.

But you can also just ask the locals where they go to get some grub. It may take you off the beaten path, but at least you'll have a memorable experience!

Some popular activities and things to do at Daytona Bike Week include:

1. Attending motorcycle races: The event includes several motorcycle races, including the Daytona 200, a prestigious race that attracts top riders worldwide.

2. Visiting vendors: There are vendors selling motorcycle-related merchandise, clothing, and accessories.

3. Joining rallies and rides: Many bikers come together to participate in organized rallies and group rides.

4. Watching concerts: Many bands and musicians perform at various venues throughout the event, offering a great opportunity to hear live music.

5. Strolling through the Boardwalk: Daytona Beach offers a beautiful boardwalk and beach that visitors can enjoy.

6. Visiting museums: Some visitors take the opportunity to visit museums such as the Daytona International Speedway and the Museum of Arts and Sciences.

7. Participating in bike shows and competitions: Many bikers participate in bike shows, competitions, and contests, such as the "Best in Show" awards, where they showcase their custom-built motorcycles.

8. Socializing: The event is also a great opportunity to meet other bikers and socialize with like-minded enthusiasts.

• The official Harley-Davidson® Daytona Bike Page

• Check in with the official Bike Week Headquarters website for all up-to-date official information.

• Bike Week on Facebook: Follow the official Daytona Bike Week Facebook page.

• Daytona Beach Blog: Check out the city and see what's happening during your visit.

• Daytona Beach Dining Guide: For a more in-depth look at what to eat while you're in town.

• Ship Your Bike: Don't want to ride all the way to the motorcycle rally from home? Drive your car or truck down and let these guys bring your motorcycle.

>> Learn more about transporting a motorcycle

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• Biketoberfest Daytona 2024

Data accuracy is subject to this article's publication date.