Lone Star Rally: Ultimate Guide (2023)

The roar of engines and the scent of saltwater collide in a spectacular fusion of biker culture and coastal charm at the Galveston Lone Star Rally. Hosted along the Galveston Historic Seaport, the annual fall event is a pilgrimage for classic car and motorcycle enthusiasts, who bring their rides to Galveston Island for competitions and bike shows and over one hundred vendors. 

With its rich maritime history and scenic Gulf Coast backdrop, Galveston provides a truly unique setting for this one-of-a-kind gathering of gleaming chrome, thunderous exhausts, and a community of over 500,000 bike riders from across the country who converge on the island. But it's not just about the custom bikes; there are also toe-tapping concerts, delicious local food, and incredible shopping vendors. 

Whether you're a die-hard motorhead or a curious bystander, you're welcome to join in on the fun and enjoy the largest 4-day rally in Texas!

In this guide, we'll explain everything you need to know about what to do and how to prep for this premier motorcycle event. Since this is one of the busiest fall events on the island, you'll want to be sure to reserve your Galveston vacation rental far in advance.

About the Lone Star Rally

The Lone Star Rally is the largest motorcycle rally in Texas and one of the biggest events in Galveston each fall. Early each November, the event draws in motorcycle and car enthusiasts, who bring their rides to the island to compete in contests for the best in class. 

The car and bike shows, tattoo contests, concerts, rodeo games, and shopping are spread out over three event zones on the island — The Strand, the harborside at Pier 21, and Beach Central Park at the Seawall.

The rally is open to all, whether you bring your own classic car or hog to compete or just show up to enjoy the festive atmosphere and check out all the rides.

Lone Star Rally 2023

This year's Lone Star Rally features exclusive VIP Balcony Passes and the traditional lineup of events, including: 

Experiencing the Lone Star Rally

Check out the Custom Bikes

Since the Lone Star Rally is the largest motorcycle gathering in the state, you definitely don't want to miss out on the custom bikes. The Ride In Custom Bike show is the best time to see them all in one place. The event is held at the Beach Central Seawall, and prizes are given out for the best choppers, antique and vintage bikes, original rides, and more.

If you arrive with your own wheels, you can enter the contest by signing up before the event.

Watch the Classic Car Show

Do you love classic cars? Over the festival weekend, the Drive In Car Show will feature hot rods, muscle cars, sleds, and other classic automobiles. This two-day event at Pier 21 in Galveston ends with an award show for the best rides.

Join the Rodeo Games

Even if you don't have your own classic car or decked-out bike to show off during the rally, anyone can participate in the Rodeo Games by signing up during the festival weekend. The games include a plank walk, slow race, barrel roll, and weenie bite. The ultimate champion during the games will be awarded with the Rodeo Championship Belt.

Show off Your Tattoos

Have some unique ink to show off? There's a contest for that! The Lone Star Rally Tattoo Contest has prizes for the best color piece, the best black and white piece, and the best overall body art. Attendees can sign up on the weekend of the event to enter or just attend the contest to check out the interesting ink.

Catch a Concert

Outside of the car and bike events, the live music is one of the best parts of the Lone Star Rally. The schedule and performers change year to year, but you can always expect an exciting lineup of classic rock, toe-tapping country, and adult contemporary shows. 

Dozens of concerts take place day and night over the weekend, so be sure to check the band schedule before you go to see when your favorite performers will take the stage.

Shop for Gear

In between the rodeo games, car contests, and roaring concerts, you'll want to be sure to check out all the vendors at the rally. Hundreds of pop-up shops selling everything from motorcycle parts to leatherware and jewelry are spread between the main rally zones at the Downtown Historic Strand Seaport Area and Beach Central Park on the Seawall. 

Book a VIP Experience

Want to experience the Lone Star Rally like a VIP? You can purchase Balcony and All Access passes that come with an array of perks to make the whole weekend extra special. VIPs will get entry to the Roof Garden, with snacks, a cash bar, and a balcony that overlooks The Strand. 

There's also a Social Club spot to mix and mingle in the AC with up-front views of one of the main concert stages. Top-tier VIP packages include perks like drink tickets and a swag bag of goodies.

Attend the Miss Lone Star Rally Contest

The Miss Lone Star Rally contest is the culmination of a series of shows leading up to the event. Local ladies throughout the Houston metro area compete at preliminary events in Kemah, Pearland, Pasadena, and more. The finals take place at the Lone Star Rally, where the contestants join in meet-and-greets before the crowning of the queen.

Tips for Visiting the Lone Star Rally 

Parking at the Lone Star Rally

Where to park during the Lone Star Rally depends on whether you arrive by bike or car. Cars and trucks should utilize the multi-level parking garages downtown. The downtown trolley will help you get around between The Strand and the Seawall.

If you're bringing a bike, trike, or Can-Am, you can purchase a parking pass to use at any of the Lone Star Rally official parking areas along Harborside Drive, The Strand, and Mechanic Street. Parking passes are sold online before the event and in person at the rally.

Tickets and Fees for the Lone Star Rally

Some events and shows at the Lone Star Rally are completely free, but for the best experience, you can purchase a weekend VIP Pass. The VIP passes come with access to special spaces with AC, bathrooms, snacks, and the best views of concerts and events on The Strand.

Where to Stay for the Lone Star Rally

Galveston Island has some fantastic vacation rentals to stay in during your time at the Lone Star Rally. When you're searching for the best place to stay in Galveston, check out these breezy homes on the Gulf and bay side of the island with huge decks and plenty of space to sleep large families or groups.

The Largest Motorcycle Rally in Texas 

Whether you're in Galveston to show off your custom bike or just want to join in the revelry at the largest motorcycle gathering in Texas, The Lone Star Rally is an experience you won't forget. We can help you find the best Galveston vacation rental for your rally crew, with options on the beachside and bayside with beautiful island views.