Trip Worthy Events To Attend This Fall In Rapid City, SD

When the crisp autumn air rolls into Rapid City, something else magical happens. The region transforms into a vibrant collection of unforgettable annual events that captivate both locals and visitors alike. Here in Rapid City, we’re not just a destination; we’re a community that thrives on rich traditions, surprising quirks, and a hearty dose of adventure.

Our fall events aren’t merely calendar fillers—they’re experiences that blend traditions with nature, creating memories steeped in joy, laughter, and a touch of the unexpected. From local festivals to celebrates of culture, there’s something for everyone to explore. So grab your coziest flannel, a sense of adventure, and maybe even a pumpkin-spiced treat as we embark on a journey through Rapid City’s best fall events.

The Stratobowl Historic Hot Air Balloon Launch

spectators sitting on the overlook of the stratobowl watching hot air balloons take off

Wake up before the sun and drive to the outskirts of Rapid City to experience an event that makes it to top of all the local's list, the Stratobowl Historic Hot Air Balloon Launch.

Located fourteen minutes outside of Rapid City on Highway 16 sits the historic Stratobowl. This spot was the location of the Army Air Corps and National Geographic Society’s 1934 and 1935 manned balloon flights that launched into the stratosphere to a record 72,395 feet. Now, every year in September a dozen experienced balloonists gather to celebrate the anniversary of that historic flight at an event called the Stratobowl Historic Hot Air Balloon Launch. Spectators watch as balloonists work in the canyon below inflating and then floating out of the valley of the Stratobowl and over the trees of the surrounding the Black Hills. An added fun fact, since the flights take place over a mountainous terrain it is considered “extreme ballooning”. The most unique thing about this balloon launch, spectators are above where the balloons take off from. Giving you a unique perserpective as they slowly rise to eye level and then up over your head and away. This event goes for an entire weekend with balloon launches taking place Friday morning, Saturday morning and again on Sunday just after sunrise.

Bierbörse Festival

tasting tents in main street square in downtown rapid city, sd during the bierborse event

For those who love beer and being outside, we welcome you with open arms and cold beverages to Bierborse.

Hosted in the heart of Downtown Rapid City at Main Street Square, Bierborse is a festival that allows event participants to enjoy an afternoon outside sampling beers from around the region. Spend your time talking to the breweries in the Tasting Ally or watch the boards of the beer stock exchange, where prices rise and fall based on crowd demand - making it so you can get the best deal on your drink if you act quick enough. All attendee's of Bierborse must be 21 or older.

The Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup

cowboy chasing bison on horseback through custer state park during the roundup event

Get a glimpse of the west in a setting that showcases the beauty of South Dakota during the Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup.

Every September, Custer State Park (only a 45 minute drive from Rapid City) hosts an event called the Buffalo Roundup. What’s so exciting about herding bison you might ask. It's no small feat to round up a herd of over 1,400 free roaming bison. This event allows you witness horse back riders roundup the herd, just like a scene from a wild west movie. You'll hear the hoots and hollers over the pounding hooves of the bison as they kick up dirt on their way to the corrals. Depending on where you sit (hint: come early) you can actually feel the ground shaking. This event attracts quite a crowd every year and this year will be no different, so make sure you're there too! Check out our full list of insider tips for this event.

The Black Hills Powwow

Celebrate a culture deeply rooted in the Black Hills at the annual Black Hills Powwow.

Taking place every year in October, this three-day event is one of the best ways to witness the beauty of Native American culture. You'll witness dancing, artwork, drum circles, and so much more all happening under one roof at The Monument. You’ll witness all the Lakota dance styles and stunning regalia while being completely captivated in the pride and community that exists at this event. It’s pretty unforgettable. Each year the Black Hills Powwow grows, attracting more skilled dancers and participants and a larger audience, it is one of largest powwow in the United States. First time attending a powwow - look into a Wacipi 101 class. Offered at the Black Hills Powwow, this class shares powwow etiquette as an attendee and insight behind different events that take place.

The Crazy Horse Volksmarch

Gaze up at the face of the largest mountain carving in progress, an experience that's only available to the public twice a year during the Volksmarch at Crazy Horse Memorial®.

Unlike the other events mentioned, the Crazy Horse Volksmarch happens twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall. This event attracts people from all over the world, and for good reason. Crazy Horse Memorial^® is the largest mountain carving in progress and during the Volksmarch the public can hike up and out onto his arm - otherwise this requires booking a private tour. You can stand face to face with Crazy Horse, marvel at the details of the carving, and then take in the stunning views of the surrounding Black Hills while standing on his arm. Don't forget to explore the rest of this impressive campus after you've completed the hike!

The Great Downtown Pumpkin Festival

People shopping local vendors during the Downtown Rapid City Pumpkin Festival

Greet the changing of the seasons in the most festive way possible, The Great Downtown Pumpkin Festival!

The Great Downtown Pumpkin Festival is the biggest festival that takes place in Downtown Rapid City. The event flows from Main Street Square over to Memorial Park, and like the name suggests it’s everything pumpkin. There's a giant pumpkin weigh-off, pumpkin catapults, pumpkin painting, local goods for purchase, and a whole lot more. It's a great time to find yourself in Downtown Rapid City.

Our area hosts many unique events that will make your trip to Rapid City even more memorable. These are just a few of the wonderful events that happen in the area, to see more you can head to our events calendar or sign up for our monthly travel tips newsletter!