Alberta’s roads come alive with the sound of engines as summer is in full swing. For riders across the province, August isn’t just another month – it’s prime time to get out and connect with other riders and friends that maybe you haven't even met yet. From charity rides that give back to the community to rallies that celebrate the open road, Alberta’s motorcycle scene is hot. This August, saddle up and join the fun as we feature a list of events to get you revving and marking your calendar. Get ready to ride, socialize and make memories that will last long after the summer is over.
Early August Events
Kick off the month with a roar! August's opening weekend brings two can't-miss events that'll have you polishing your chrome and hitting the road. These events promise a perfect start to your motorcycle-filled month, combining the thrill of riding with opportunities to support great causes and explore Alberta's rich motorcycle heritage.
Cruisin' For A Cure
Get ready to ride for a reason! This event combines the love of motorcycles with the power to make a real difference in people's lives.
Start Point: Harley-Davidson of Edmonton, 7420 Yellowhead Trail Northwest, Edmonton, AB
Event Date: Saturday, August 10, 2024
Registration Time: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. (Arrive any time during this window to register and join the event)
Cost: $25 registration, payable upon arrival
Event Info:
- Group ride to support the Hematology Program at the University of Alberta Hospital
- All proceeds benefit the cause
- Exact route details to be provided at registration
Grab your gear, fuel up, and be part of a community that rides with purpose. Your participation directly supports vital medical research and care. It's more than just a ride—it's a chance to cruise with fellow riders while contributing to a noble cause. Show up any time during the registration window, sign up, and join the group for an unforgettable ride.
Ride to Reynolds
Rev up for a day filled with motorcycle history, live entertainment, and the chance to show off your ride!
Destination: Reynolds Museum, 6426 40 Avenue, Wetaskiwin, AB
Event Date: Saturday, August 10, 2024
Event Hours: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Arrive any time; not a group ride)
Cost: Regular museum admission; FREE for those arriving on motorcycles
Event Info:
- One-day-only motorcycle display in the parking lot
- Live music and food vendors throughout the day
- Exclusive Motorcycle Collection Tours (book on-site, $10 cash per person, tours run every 30 minutes from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.)
- "Driving Thru the '70s" exhibition featuring iconic vehicles
From vintage bikes to modern marvels, this event has something for every motorcycle lover. This isn't a group ride, but rather a destination event. Ride in at your leisure any time during the event hours. Don't miss the chance to tour the exclusive motorcycle collection and immerse yourself in the groovy '70s exhibit. Remember, if you arrive on your bike, you and a passenger get free museum admission!
Mid-August Events
The heat of summer brings a sizzling lineup of events that'll have you racing from one end of Alberta to the other. From riverside rallies to charity rides, mid-August is when the rubber really hits the road.
River Rally by Freewheelin' Motorcycle Camp
Kick off the weekend early with this three-day extravaganza that combines camping, live music, and motorcycle culture.
Location: Free Wheelin' Motorcycle Campground, 393043 Range Road, Alhambra, AB (near Rocky Mountain House)
Event Dates: Friday, August 16 to Sunday, August 18, 2024
Event Hours: 12:00 p.m. Friday to 12:00 p.m. Sunday (48-hour event)
Cost: $111 per person (includes camping for the entire weekend)
Event Info:
- Not a group ride; arrive at your leisure throughout the weekend
- Live bands both nights
- Vendors and food trucks on-site
- Spectacular camping along the North Saskatchewan River
Pack your tent, prep your bike, and get ready for a weekend you won't forget! This rally is all about the destination, so ride in whenever you like and stay for as long as you want. With music, food, and fellow riders, it's the perfect mid-August getaway.
Ride For Dad Red Deer
Join the fight against prostate cancer with this charity ride that's all about awareness and funding for a crucial cause.
Start Point: Turple Bros. Ltd., 175 Leva Avenue, Red Deer, AB
Event Date: Saturday, August 17, 2024
Registration Time: 7:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.
Ride Start: 9:30 a.m. sharp
Cost: $40 registration, or ride free with $100 in pledges
Event Info:
- Group charity ride to support prostate cancer research and awareness
- Route details provided at registration
- #GetTheBloodTest campaign to promote early detection
Arrive early to register and join fellow riders in this important cause. Your participation helps fund groundbreaking research and life-saving awareness campaigns. Remember, early detection saves lives—spread the word and be part of the change!
AAA 12th Annual Poker Run
Cap off your Saturday with a full-day adventure packed with scenery, camaraderie, and a rockin' after-party.
Start Point: Mad Rose Pub, 15 Royal Vista Place Northwest, Calgary, AB
Event Date: Saturday, August 17, 2024
Event Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 11:55 p.m.
Cost: $79 (includes breakfast, snacks, and dinner)
Event Info:
- Group ride with multiple stops
- Itinerary:
- 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.: Breakfast and registration at Mad Rose Pub
- 12:00 p.m.: Kickstands up, ride begins
- Stops include: Fortress Mountain, Highwood Pass, Twin Cities Saloon
- Evening: Dinner, prizes, and live music at Hotel Blackfoot
- Party Bus option available ($50 extra, BYOB!)
- Professional photographer providing free photos
- All profits support local causes
Pre-register to secure your spot in what's billed as "THE BEST POKER RUN EVER!" This event offers a full day of riding, socializing, and giving back to the community. Don't miss out on the chance to explore some of Alberta's most scenic routes and cap it off with great food and live music.
Late August Events
As summer starts to wind down, the motorcycle events in Alberta are revving up for a grand finale. The last weekend of August brings two events that combine the joy of riding with the power of giving back to the community.
Central Alberta Toy Run 2024
Kick off the weekend early with this two-day event that's all about fun, philanthropy, and fantastic rides.
Location: Watipi Village Campground (just north of Blackfalds), AB
Event Dates: Friday, August 23 to Saturday, August 24, 2024
Cost: $60 (includes camping)
Event Info:
- Not a group ride; come and go as you please
- Live Music
- Bike Games
- Show & Shine
- Camping available on-site
This event is the perfect blend of motorcycle culture and community spirit. Ride in anytime during the event, bring a toy to donate, and be part of something bigger than just a ride. With activities spread over two days, you can make it a quick visit or a full weekend of motorcycle madness.
Ride To Reconciliation
Join a ride that's about more than just the road—it's about building bridges and understanding.
Start Point: Blackjacks Roadhouse, 2110 Sparrow Drive, Nisku, AB
Event Date: Saturday, August 24, 2024
Registration Time: 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
Ride Start: 10:30 a.m. sharp
Cost: $50 (includes breakfast)
Event Info:
- Group ride followed by a cultural event
- Indigenous cultural experiences
- Speakers and live music
- Vendors and entertainment
- Family-friendly atmosphere
Arrive early to enjoy breakfast and register for this meaningful ride. After the group ride, immerse yourself in a day of cultural exchange and learning. It's a unique opportunity to combine your love of riding with a chance to contribute to the journey of reconciliation.
Wow! Charity rides that make a difference, multi-day rallies that celebrate the pure fun of motorcycling, August 2024 in Alberta is going to be epic. Whether you’re cruising for a cure, riding to Reynolds or reconciling through the power of two wheels, there’s an event for you. Don’t let this summer slip away without hitting the open road and feeling the warmth of the motorcycle community.
As you get ready for these adventures, remember: safety first, always. Check your bike, wear your gear and look out for your fellow riders. Now what are you waiting for? Mark your calendars, polish that chrome and get ready to make some noise. The roads of Alberta are calling and August is looking good to ride. See you out there!