Black Bike Week 2023 near Myrtle Beach is almost here! Dates, what you need to know

Eleanor Nash

Bikers will start rolling in to Myrtle Beach for the 2023 Atlantic Beach Bike Week this weekend, so now is the perfect time to make those last-minute plans to visit.

While some locals dread the increased traffic and large crowds, thousands of visitors flock to Atlantic Beach during Memorial Day weekend to show off their motorcycles and enjoy the South Carolina coast.

Here are the answers to six frequently asked questions about this year’s Bike Fest.

When is Black Bike Week?

The Atlantic Beach Memorial Day Black Pearl Cultural Heritage and Bike Festival will take place Memorial Day weekend. The event, also known as Black Bike Week or Atlantic Beach Bike Fest, has been held since 1980.

“Bikers and non-bikers are welcome,” said Atlantic Beach town manager, Benjamin Quattlebaum. He encouraged visitors in 2023 to “come out and patronize the event, they’ll find it very enjoyable.”

From custom bikes and trucks, to their clothes and accessories, Bikefest attendees go in style. A look at the trends for the 2022 Atlantic Beach Bikefest. May 27, 2022.
From custom bikes and trucks, to their clothes and accessories, Bikefest attendees go in style. A look at the trends for the 2022 Atlantic Beach Bikefest. May 27, 2022.

What’s the weather forecast?

After a rainy Harley Bike Week, attendees are probably hoping for a drier Black Bike Week.

Atlantic Beach has a 40% chance of rain all day Friday, with high near 70 F, according to the National Weather Service. On Saturday, the rain chance drops to 30%, with a high of 72 F. Things heat up on Sunday, with temperatures topping out at 78 F.

What events can I go to?

“Keep on Rollin” singer King George will headline a weekend of free concerts. Quattlebaum said he’s looking forward to the variety of music on the main stage, ranging from R&B and hip hop to soul and gospel, with live DJs and bands.

“I think we’ll get a good mix of young patrons to the event and some of the more experienced citizens coming out to enjoy the concert,” Quattlebaum said.

Atlantic Beach Bikefest’s return to the Myrtle Beach area combined with the holiday weekend tourists resulted in a packed Ocean Boulevard in Myrtle Beach on Saturday night of Memorial Day weekend 2022.May 28, 2022.
Atlantic Beach Bikefest’s return to the Myrtle Beach area combined with the holiday weekend tourists resulted in a packed Ocean Boulevard in Myrtle Beach on Saturday night of Memorial Day weekend 2022.May 28, 2022.

What’s new in 2023?

Quattlebaum hopes to see more bikers from outside of the area, thanks to an increased marketing budget from a Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce and Horry County grant.

Quattlebaum was encouraged by the increase in interest from retail and food vendors this year. He hopes to entice motorcycle companies to sell their items at the festival.

How can I get more information?

Stay up to date on Atlantic Beach Bike Week plans by following the Black Bike Week Facebook page and checking out the resources on the Black Bike Week website.

What other bike rallies are held in the Myrtle Beach area?

Horry County hosts three large motorcycle events each year. The Myrtle Beach Spring Rally just ended on May 21. The 2023 Fall Rally will be held from Oct. 2 to 8.

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