The Sturgis Buffalo Chip is exploding through the gates one week earlier than ever before by offering three nights of headlining concerts at no charge during its first ever, free, pre-rally party. The three-night concert series will take place on the Jägermeister Stage at the free-access CrossRoads at the Buffalo Chip and will feature a caliber of live music not typically offered without a cover charge. While the concerts are free, VIP and weekend camping passes can be purchased for this special, three-day weekend event so concert goers can stay and party all night long, all weekend long, before, after and during the shows.

Chart-topping rock band Pop Evil will kick off the free party on the Jägermeister Stage as headliner, Friday, July 24. Opening for Pop Evil will be breakout hard rock group Red Sun Rising. With the release of its new album, “Polyester Zeal,” on the horizon, Red Sun Rising is featured in the latest issue of “Revolver Magazine.”

The free pre-rally party continues Saturday, July 25 with desert rock band Scorpion Child and Denver-based punk supergroup Lola Black.

ONE – The Only Tribute to Metallica, will make its way to the Jägermeister Stage on Sunday, July 26. The group’s national level touring tribute brings an authentic, theatrical stage show which will impress as its performances regularly include a full arsenal of stage props and rare, early-days Metallica memorabilia and signature instruments. ONE painstakingly recreates every note from more than 60 of Metallica fan favorites, spanning the Chip’s most requested band’s entire career. ONE brings a memorable show of theatrical thrills and unmatched musical talent as the only band to have jammed with Metallica on stage. Scorpion Child and Lola Black will both perform prior to ONE Sunday evening.

Camping passes, RV spaces with hook-ups and cabins are all available for the pre-rally party. A limited number of special VIP passes, providing premium concert seating and band meet and greet opportunities, may be purchased by calling 605-347-9000.

The Sturgis Buffalo Chip campground will open for camping July 3, 2015 with live music starting on showcase stages beginning July 24. The CrossRoads Bar opens Thursday, July 2.