'If I die from the virus, it was just meant to be': 250,000 descend upon tiny South Dakota town for world-famous motorcycle rally

Michael Ciaglo/Getty Images

• The world-famous Sturgis motorcycle rally kicked off its 10 days of festivities on Friday. 
• Up to 250,000 bikers — a smaller crowd than usual — are expected to descend upon the small South Dakota town.
• Organizers shrugged off surging coronavirus cases in the United States to hold the annual event, even as a majority of the town's citizens wanted it canceled. 
• Most of the event's activities, like rides and concerts, are outdoors. But even in crowded indoor bars, there have been few masks in sight. 
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

There were plenty of motorcycles and not many masks on display as the Sturgis Rally — the largest motorcycle gathering of its kind — kicked off in Sturgis, South Dakota on Friday.

Despite surging virus cases in the US and against the wishes of most of the tiny town's 7,000 residents, CNN reports, the annual festival is expected to draw up to 250,000 visitors during its 10 days of concerts, group rides, poker tournaments, and more.See the rest of the story at Business Insider

NOW WATCH: Leslie Odom, Jr.'s $500,000 gamble that led to a starring role in 'Hamilton'

See Also:

• A major cruise line won't allow passengers on shore visits without chaperones, as sailings resume despite the coronavirus
• Uber reports a $1.78 billion loss as its food-delivery business outshines rides for the first time
• No more medical exemptions: Alaska Airlines says anyone who can't or won't wear a mask won't be allowed to fly