Thunder on the Prairie

Written by STIX DOUGLAS and S. Sydney

With the arrival of summer it is time to start planning my annual trek to the bikers’ Mecca in Sturgis, South Dakota.

My “Wise Guy” buddies Butch and Joe, and I will once again mount our bikes and ride to the Black Hills Rally and Races as we have for many years. In all this time we’ve also been keeping a secret about the place we stay at while we’re there; and that is about to change.

Anyone that has previously visited Sturgis knows of the many changes that have taken place over the years. Due to the increasing numbers of bikers flocking to the Rally, it has spread over a vast area. There is no way to be able to see and do everything during this time. It does however give you a good reason to return again the following year.

Tucked away like a little oasis in the desert just north of Sturgis, we’ve found Newell to be one of the most pleasant, and hospitable towns. A welcomed and wanted change to have a quiet place to go to rest, relax and unwind each night before returning to the swarming masses that congregate at the Rally each day.

Many “Sturgis Virgins” arriving at the Rally want to be a part of the action and remain immersed in the center of the crowds, the noise and excitement trying to absorb as much as they can of the hectic schedule of events at Sturgis. They may not appreciate what this town has to offer.

During Sturgis week in August this town takes on a new name: Thunder On The Prairie. They have added their own community events and offer a Bike Fest for those looking for alternate forms of entertainment away from the massive crowds with a more relaxed atmosphere. Here are some of the events taking place Rally week:

Sunday starting at 1:00 pm is Veterans Appreciation Day. Join the celebration as the community shows its appreciation to all of its Veterans and heroes. Get acquainted with the townsfolk while you, eat and enjoy live music performed on Main Street.

On Tuesday is one of last year’s most talked about events the annual Poker Run starting at Thunder on the Prairie Saloon on Main Street. Sign up begins at 1:00pm and the ride ends about 5:00pm.

You can try your hand at winning, and enjoy a ride that takes you back to the days of the wagon trains following routes that will lead you through some of the best sights the area has to offer.


Thursday is the “Bull Bash” at the rodeo grounds from 1:00 until 5:00pm. Where the local cowboys try their luck at staying aboard close to a ton of fighting fury for eight seconds. This is followed at 5:00pm by the Volunteer Fireman’s BBQ and Street Dance, you definitely don’t want to miss this event. Be sure to try some of the finest BBQ Buffalo prepared and served by their Volunteer Fire Department staff. You won’t go away hungry.

Of course you may find the locals entertaining as well. There is Karaoke every night at the Newell Hotel located just across Main Street from the Thunder On The Prairie Saloon, which has drink specials all week.

Change isn’t always good, and up until recently Newell has been a well kept secret. With its website and the news spreading about this town, the future events and participants will in all probability continue to grow in number. But what won’t change are the hospitality and the genuine sincerity of the people, and that is why we will continue to stay in this region on our annual pilgrimage.

For more information, follow the link Thunder on the Prairie and see what has been kept a secret; you will be glad that you did.