Introduction
Bikes Blues & BBQ first started in 2000 and has grown into a massive event attracting around 300,000 attendees each year. The rally revolves around live music, great barbecue, motorcycle shows, vendor exhibits, and more – all celebrating motorcycle culture.
BBB runs for 4 days in the fall, usually towards the end or beginning of September. The dates vary slightly each year, but BBB is always scheduled to take advantage of the pleasant early-autumn weather in Northwest Arkansas.
When Exactly is BBB Each Year?
While the specific dates shift annually, BBB generally takes place in the last week of September or first week of October.
Here are the official dates for upcoming BBBs:
- 2023: September 28 – October 1
- 2024: September 26 – 29
- 2025: September 25 – 28
BBB always starts on a Thursday and runs through Sunday. The schedule fills all 4 days with live music acts, bike shows, demo rides, guided tours, and more entertainment.
Why BBB Takes Place in Late September
The BBB organizers intentionally schedule the rally in late September for a few key reasons:
- Pleasant Weather – Northwest Arkansas has warm sunny days and cool evenings in September, ideal for outdoor festival events. Summer heat has passed but winter cold has not yet arrived.
- Fall Foliage – The Ozark Mountains put on a beautiful show of fall colors in late September and early October. Riding the curvy roads viewing peak fall foliage is a major highlight.
- Shoulder Season – Late September is still considered the shoulder season in terms of tourism. Hotels and campgrounds are less likely to be completely booked up compared to summer months.
- Rally Season – September is a popular month for motorcycle rallies across the USA. Scheduling BBB at the very end of the prime rally season helps attract more riders.
So in summary, the BBB organizers have found late September to be the optimal time to hold their huge rally based on weather, scenery, crowds, and tourism seasonality in Northwest Arkansas.
How Long is BBB?
Bikes Blues & BBQ runs for 4 full days, from Thursday morning through Sunday evening. However, many riders will extend their stays before and after the official dates. Some ride in as early as Monday to take part in unofficial pre-parties and ride the Ozark roads before the crowds arrive. And many bikers opt to head home on Monday after the rally wraps up to avoid traffic congestion.
So while BBB officially spans Thursday through Sunday, the overall rally impact lasts most of the week. Area hotels and campgrounds usually require 3-5 night minimum stays during the BBB week.
Key Takeaways on BBB Dates
- BBB is always scheduled on a Thursday through Sunday in late September or early October
- The 2023 dates are September 28 – October 1
- The rally dates shift each year but are announced well in advance
- Late September timing ensures pleasant weather, fall scenery, and manageable crowds
- BBB officially runs for 4 days but many rally-goers arrive earlier and stay later
Frequently Asked Questions About BBB Dates
Here are answers to some common questions about when the giant Bikes Blues & BBQ motorcycle rally takes place:
When will BBB be held in 2024 and 2025?
The scheduled dates for upcoming BBBs are:
- 2024: September 26 – 29
- 2025: September 25 – 28
What day of the week does BBB start?
BBB always begins on a Thursday morning and runs through Sunday evening. This allows 4 full days of rally events.
How early do people arrive for BBB?
Many riders will arrive 3-4 days before BBB officially begins to participate in pre-parties, organized rides, and avoid heavy traffic. Hotel stays often start on Monday.
Should I stay a few days after BBB ends?
It’s recommended to stay until Monday after BBB ends to let traffic dissipate. Trying to leave on Sunday afternoon can involve sitting in long lines of bikes.
How far in advance are the BBB dates announced?
The dates for an upcoming BBB are usually announced up to a year in advance. So 2024 dates are already known. This allows proper planning.
Can I get a refund if the dates change?
If you booked hotels and BBB changes their dates, you can get a refund or change reservations since you booked based on the announced dates.
Conclusion
Bikes Blues & BBQ is a huge late September motorcycle rally in Northwest Arkansas. The 4-day event dates are set to take advantage of pleasant early fall weather, beautiful Ozark scenery, and end-of-season crowds. BBB 2023 runs September 28 – October 1, with similar late September dates scheduled annually. Allow extra time by arriving early and departing late to fully experience the massive rally!