VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. — The sound of engines is filling Daytona Beach again as Biketoberfest returns for its 34th year.
The four-day motorcycle rally runs through Sunday, Oct. 18, drawing tens of thousands of riders and visitors to Main Street, Daytona International Speedway and other spots across Volusia County. Organizers expect about 125,000 people for the weekend event.
For Central Floridians, it’s an easy day trip for live music, custom bikes, food, vendors and scenic rides along the coast.
What to expect
Biketoberfest celebrates motorcycle culture with bike shows, custom builds, hundreds of vendors, live entertainment and group rides through the Daytona Beach area. The official welcome center is at Daytona International Speedway, a good first stop for anyone planning their day.
Main Street is typically the heart of the action, but events are spread across the area, so visitors may want to plan where they want to park before heading east.
Traffic and safety
Expect heavier-than-usual traffic around Main Street and Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Boulevard. Daytona Beach police will use barricades to manage congestion and keep pedestrians safer, while leaving room for motorcycles and trikes.
Drivers should watch closely for motorcycles, especially when changing lanes or turning. Extra law-enforcement patrols will be out through the weekend, targeting speeding, reckless driving and impaired driving.
WATCH-->Daytona gears up for 4 days of bikes and beats
A boost for local businesses
The rally is also a major economic boost for Daytona Beach hotels, restaurants, bars and shops. Officials estimate Biketoberfest will bring in about $16 million this year.
“If you’re heading to the beach this weekend, expect crowds, plan ahead and look twice for riders,” is the simple takeaway for Central Florida drivers.
If you go
- When: Through Sunday, Oct. 18.
- Where: Daytona Beach, including Main Street and Daytona International Speedway.
- What’s there: Custom bikes, vendors, live music, racing and scenic rides.
- Before you go: Arrive early, expect traffic, park in designated areas and stay alert for motorcycles.
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