Local business
Biketoberfest Returns to Daytona Beach Oct. 15 to 18: What Volusia Residents Should Know
The 34th annual rally brings racing, music and vendors to the Speedway and Main Street, along with slower traffic, street closures and new rules for Slingshots.
The 34th annual Biketoberfest rally rolls into Daytona Beach from Thursday, Oct. 15, through Sunday, Oct. 18, bringing motorcycle racing, live music, vendors and a lot of extra traffic to the area.
Where it happens
Events take place at venues and businesses across Volusia County and beyond. Named locations include Daytona International Speedway, Main Street, A1A, the Scenic Loop and Mary McLeod Bethune Boulevard in Midtown. The official welcome center is trackside at the Speedway.
What's on the schedule
Highlights include motorcycle racing at Daytona International Speedway, live music, motorcycle shows, custom bike builds and hundreds of vendors. Organizers had not posted a performer list or full schedule on the main event page as of this week, and say details will be updated closer to the event on the Events page and in the Biketoberfest app.
The welcome center hands out free visitor guides, posters and a collectible pin. Ticket prices for racing and other events were not listed.
Safety and street closures
The Florida Motorcycle Safety Program is promoting the message “Look Twice. Protect a Life.” Slingshots are not permitted on Main Street or Mary McLeod Bethune Boulevard during event street closures, though trikes and motorcycles with sidecars are allowed on Main Street.
Organizers also note that if the city cannot get the barriers it normally uses for street closures, the Daytona Beach Police Department will use existing resources for additional safety measures. Residents should expect slower traffic and some closures near the main rally areas, and plan extra time for trips on Main Street and A1A.
Why it matters for locals
Biketoberfest is one of the biggest events of the fall for Volusia County businesses. It also means more motorcycles on local roads, which ties in with the county's recent push on road safety for people on foot and on bikes.
Visit daytonabeach.com/biketoberfest for the official schedule and updates. The Volusia Voice will share local travel and safety tips as the rally gets closer.
Based on information published by Biketoberfest and the Florida Motorcycle Safety Program, including the official event page at daytonabeach.com/biketoberfest.