The Birth of The Boneyard 

  There is something new at Sturgis this year. Witness the birth of the Boneyard Saloon, a new entertainment facility that will be a “must stop” and see at the 67^th Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally this year.

  The Boneyard Saloon is a multi-million dollar complex that will be a welcoming addition to the Sturgis area for many years to come. Owners Jim and Deb Junker from Stillwater, MN have been in the planning stages for four years now, along with offspring Chad, Josh, and Jessica. The Junker family has had many years experience in the hospitality and entertainment business, and this latest venture is a long-term commitment to the Sturgis and surrounding area. Not only is this a great addition to the Rally, but with enough interest could turn into a great stop along the highway six or seven months out of the year for locals and tourists alike.

  The Boneyard is situated on 40 acres of land in Whitewood, South Dakota, only five miles west of Sturgis right on Interstate 90. It will feature the main building that has two levels, with restaurant facilities, upper VIP area, and a large deck with a breathtaking view of the Black Hills. Jim and son Chad have also had many years of experience in the landscaping business, and have personally moved many tons of dirt this spring before construction even began. By the time they are done, this upscale project will feature the finest food and entertainment, and appeal to the common Harley enthusiast as well as the upscale folk who are looking for an alternative to what has been available. There will also be plenty of vendors this year to check out.

  Now for the latest news: on the evening of June 16^th, a severe storm struck the Whitewood area and damaged the almost completed main building. Despite the setback, the owners and staff of the Boneyard are going ahead with this year’s grand opening. “A bump in the road” is the comment from Chad Junker, and with help from some very large tents and temporary facilities, this year will launch come hell or high water.

  The talent this inaugural year is totally outstanding. There will be four stages featuring the best in national and regional bands, including Bret Michaels of Poison making a special appearance in the VIP area the night of August 5^th. Other big name artists include Vince Neil of Motley Crue on August 6^th, Blue Oyster Cult on August 9^th, and a special appearance by John Kay and Steppenwolf (on what is being promoted as their final tour) to send em’ home with “Born to be Wild” on the last day – August 11^th. Even more artists will grace the large concert stage – Dokken, Quiet Riot, FireHouse, Warrant, Georgia Satellites, Marshall Tucker Band, Seven Mary Three, Pat Travers, Foghat, Canned Heat and Corey Stevens just to name a few.

  Also, in conjunction with the Days of 76 Celebration in Deadwood, the Boneyard has two great country-rock legends Aaron Tippin and The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band on July 27^th and 28^th. This will be the official opening of the facility, as a warm up to the Rally itself.

  The biggest buzz about the entertainment is the low ticket prices, check out what admission is to these events and the average concert goer will be shocked. Advance tickets to even the biggest headliners are only $13, and there are also 6-day and 11-day packages available. The Boneyard opens at 7am and there is no admission charge until 5:00 pm - at which time the ticket holder will have access to four more bands that evening. (VIP will have access to five bands per evening) There will be music and events all day long that are free until 5:00pm.