The Wharf Rat Rally Motorcycle Association is a not-for-profit society that relies on sponsorships and the help of dozens of volunteers to maintain its sustainability. It is comprised of a volunteer board of directors with nine members who are business leaders from Middleton through to Yarmouth. Until recently, the Rally has been organized and run by a totally volunteer board.
The Wharf Rat Rally was originally conceived as a free event bringing together riders of all types in a family-friendly environment. It begins the Wednesday prior to Labour Day Weekend and continues for five action-packed days. The event was co-founded by Alex Joannides and Peter Robertson in 2005 and saw just a small gathering of motorcycles meet in Digby. From there, the Wharf Rat Rally has continued to grow, attracting bigger names and more bikes and people. It is now comprised of over 30 smaller events with entertainers and builders brought in from near and far. As they enjoy music and races, dancers and stunters, participants are encouraged to make a donation to help guarantee future rallies.
The heart of the rally is the central core of the Town of Digby which offers both a central meeting place and access to the Bay of Fundy on the Digby Wharf. Events take advantage of both the streetscape and the water and include music, vendors, raffles, watersport demonstrations, and guided tours.
In 2011, the town of 2,092 had an influx of 50,000 visitors and 24,000 motorcycles over the course of five days.