Can’t Miss Motorcycle Events & Rallies in Wisconsin
Rides, Rallies, and Road Food Worth Showing Up For
If you ride in Wisconsin, you already know—this state is packed with two-wheeled magic. From scenic driftless routes and lakefront cruises to backroads lined with red barns and brat stands, it’s a rider’s dream. But if you really want to tap into the heart of Wisconsin’s motorcycle culture, it’s the events and rallies that bring it all together.
Whether you’re a seasoned club rider or a solo cruiser who just wants to park, grab a burger, and talk bikes—there’s something here for you. This guide highlights the best motorcycle events and rallies across the state. Some are massive. Some are grassroots. All of them are worth the trip.
Why These Events Matter to Riders
Rallies aren’t just about beer tents and burnout contests (though you’ll definitely see a few). They’re about:
Connecting with the riding community
Supporting great causes and local businesses
Discovering scenic routes you’ve never ridden
Raising awareness for rider safety
Honoring fallen brothers and sisters
At McCarthy Motorcycle Law, we sponsor and support rides because we believe in what these events represent—freedom, family, and showing up for each other.
Major Rallies and Bike Weeks in Wisconsin
Tomahawk Fall Ride (Tomahawk)
When: Mid-September
Why Go: This one’s a classic. Thousands of riders descend on Tomahawk for scenic rides, live music, demo rides from big-name brands, and a downtown filled with vendors and bikes. Harley-Davidson hosts factory tours nearby, and the Northwoods fall colors are unbeatable.
Best For: Group rides, scenic cruising, and classic rally energy
Harley Davidson Homecoming (Milwaukee)
When: July?
Why Go: The birthplace of Harley-Davidson throws a proper party. With bike shows, factory tours, street fests, and concerts, Milwaukee goes all out. You can also ride Lake Michigan’s shoreline or check out the Harley-Davidson Museum.
Best For: Big-city energy, Harley fans, and bucket-list riders
Rumble on the Lake (Cable)
When: Late June
Why Go: A Northwoods favorite that blends riding with charity. It’s a smaller rally with heart—live music, poker runs, and some of the best riding in Bayfield County. All proceeds support local causes, including veterans and youth programs.
Best For: Laid-back riders, charity-minded groups, and scenic routes
wisconsin dells rally (wisconsin dells)
When: Early September
Why Go: Camping, scenic routes, and beer. What more could you ask for?
Best For: Campers looking to get in one last ride and rally before the weather gets iffy.
Slimey Crud Motorcycle Gang Café Racer Run (Between Pine Bluff & Leland)
When: First Sundays of May & October
Why Go: This is a ride with legend status. No official registration, no corporate sponsors—just real riders gathering at two rural taverns, with winding country roads in between. Expect a mix of café racers, vintage bikes, oddball builds, and serious gearheads.
Best For: Riders who love the weird, the retro, and the underground
Can’t-Miss Charity Rides and Local Events
Ride for Wishes (Waukesha)
When: Summer
Why Go: One of the biggest charity rides in the state. Hosted by Make-A-Wish Wisconsin, this event draws huge turnout and raises serious funds for kids fighting critical illness. It’s organized, well-supported, and emotional in all the best ways.
Best For: Riders who want their miles to matter
Hogs for Heroes Rides (Statewide)
When: Various
Why Go: Hogs for Heroes helps injured Wisconsin veterans get back on the road by giving away bikes to deserving vets. They host events and rides across the state—from scenic parades to meetups at local dealers.
Best For: Patriot-minded riders and anyone who believes in motorcycles as therapy
Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride (Madison & Milwaukee)
When: Late May
Why Go: This global event raises awareness for men’s mental health and prostate cancer. Riders dress in vintage or dapper gear and cruise through downtown routes on café racers, classics, and customs.
Best For: Riders with vintage style and a cause in their heart
🚦Great Small-Town or Regional Events Worth the Trip
🔹 Poynette Rods and Rides (Poynette)
When: June
Why Go: Part vintage car show, part motorcycle gathering, all good times. There’s something special about small-town events where everyone shows up. Add a brat and a cold one and you’re golden.
Best For: Old-school riders, classic bike owners, and community vibes
🔹 Boaz Bike Bash (Boaz)
When: September
Why Go: A true backroads Wisconsin experience. Think rural campout vibes with biker games, food vendors, a bonfire, and great twisty roads through southwestern Wisconsin.
Best For: Camp-and-ride weekend warriors who don’t mind getting dusty
🔹 Iron Butt Association Saddle Sore Challenge (Various Routes)
When: Year-round
Why Go: This one isn’t a rally—but if you’re the kind of rider who sees “1,000 miles in 24 hours” as a fun weekend challenge, it’s a rite of passage. You can design your own Wisconsin-based route and still qualify.
Best For: Distance freaks and endurance riders who ride for bragging rights
🗺️ Planning a Rally Road Trip? Keep These Tips in Mind:
Book your lodging early—popular events fill up fast
Pack for Wisconsin weather—sunny, rainy, windy, and cold can all happen in one day
Bring cash for local vendors and food trucks
Stay hydrated and don’t overdo the beers—there’s a ride home
Carry a basic tool kit, rain gear, and your emergency contact info
Ride your own ride—especially in large or unfamiliar groups
How to Find More Events Near You
Check Facebook Groups & Pages: Local clubs often post rides weekly
Follow dealer event calendars: Local Harley-Davidson, Indian, and independent shops sponsor rides
Check regional tourism sites: Many list motorcycle events tied to festivals or county fairs
Visit rally-specific sites like CycleFish or Thunder Roads Magazine
We Sponsor Events Because We Believe in Riders
At McCarthy Motorcycle Law, we don’t just show up after a crash—we show up at the ride. We sponsor charity events, support veteran rides, and believe in backing the people who keep Wisconsin’s motorcycle culture alive.
Want us to sponsor your next ride or rally? [Reach out here →]
Crashed on the Way to or From an Event? Here’s What to Know:
Big events mean more traffic, unfamiliar roads, and sometimes unpredictable drivers. If you’ve been hit—or someone in your group was injured—get legal backup early.
We offer:
Free, confidential case evaluations
No fees unless you win
A law firm that actually respects riders
[Get Your Free Case Evaluation →]