About This Festival

The Jonesboro River Rally is Indiana's largest free motorcycle rally, held annually over the last weekend of September in Jonesboro, Indiana. The 2025 event is scheduled from September 26 to September 28 at 320 S. Main St., Jonesboro, in Grant County. It attracts over 15,000 motorcycles and tens of thousands of participants, turning the small town of around 1,275 residents into a bustling motorcycle festival hub.

Surrounding Area and Vibe

Jonesboro is a rural town in eastern Indiana that transforms during the rally weekend into a vibrant, loud, and colorful scene reminiscent of a classic motorcycle movie. The streets are filled with a diverse crowd: from wealthy professionals with high-end motorcycles to working families and children, all united by a passion for biking. The event has a friendly, inclusive, fun, and family-oriented atmosphere, with a mix of serious motorcycle culture and festive celebration.

History and Founding

Nearing two decades of running, the Jonesboro River Rally has steadily grown from a local gathering into the largest annual motorcycle rally in Indiana. Its growth is driven by continuous additions of new specialty vendors, entertainment acts, and activities. It has become a staple event in the motorcycle community in Indiana and beyond, drawing riders from across the U.S. and multiple countries.

Activities and Features

  • Bike Show Contests: Competitive and exhibition bike shows where enthusiasts display custom and classic motorcycles.
  • Sound Warz: A loudspeaker or stereo competition likely featuring motorcycle sound systems.
  • Memorial Rides: Organized group rides, including notable ones like the Waldo Bike Ride, focusing on commemorating important figures or themes.
  • Field Events: Stunt shows and motorcycle riding skill challenges featuring Harley stunt riders and other performers.
  • Vendors: A wide array of vendors offering motorcycle gear, accessories, food, drinks, and family-friendly products.
  • Live Bands: Music performances enhancing the festival vibe with rock and other genres.
  • Camping: Both primitive and RV camping options, with spaces available through local Jonesboro and nearby communities.
  • Family Fun: Attractions suitable for children and families, contributing to a welcoming environment for all ages.

Rough Schedule of Events (Typical Format)

  • Friday (Opening Day): Registration, camping set up, bike show registration, live music kick-off, vendors open.
  • Saturday: Bike shows underway, memorial rides, Sound Warz competitions, stunt and field events, bands perform in the evening.
  • Sunday (Closing Day): Final bike shows, group rides, awards ceremonies, vendors close by late afternoon.

Nearby Related Event

During the same week as the Jonesboro River Rally (September 21-28, 2025), riders can participate in the Cornfield Classic Challenge in Marion, Indiana — a self-paced time-trial on the historic five-mile motorcycle course. This challenge celebrates one of Indiana’s legendary motorcycle racing traditions and offers prizes for participation.

Accessibility

The event venue is handicapped accessible, ensuring accommodations for visitors with disabilities.

Contact and Online Presence

  • Phone contact available: (765) 674-7448
  • Active Facebook and Twitter pages for updates and community interaction
  • Website and social media regularly updated with vendor info, schedules, and event announcements

The Jonesboro River Rally remains a must-attend event for motorcycle enthusiasts looking for a mix of culture, community, competition, and entertainment in a rural Indiana setting.