Open containers to be allowed at Sturgis Motorcycle Rally this year

STURGIS, S.D.(KBHB) – On a 7-2 vote, the Sturgis Council Monday night voted to allow open container on Main Street during this year’s Motorcycle Rally.

City leaders say allowing open containers during the rally offers several positives, including giving visitors a more relaxed, inviting experience downtown as well as offering a new revenue stream for the city and Sturgis Rally Charities.

Sturgis City Manager Daniel Ainslie says the proposed plan consists of allowing an open container within an approximate area of Main and Lazelle Streets. Consumption of either beer or wine would be restricted to a special event cup.

Ainslie says significant signage would be in place to inform people of the open container boundaries.

Sturgis Police Chief Geody VanDewater says law enforcement will work with the city on the plan.

Sturgis Council President Beka Zerbst says this plan is for one year only, and will be revisited next year.

The open container will run from Friday, August 6th through Saturday, August 14th and is effective between the hours of 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Voting against the resolution were Mike Bachand and Angela Wilkerson.