August turns up the energy across Rapid City and the Black Hills. Motorcycles rumble through the region, the fairgrounds come alive, families send summer out with a splash, and local athletes return to the field.
86th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally
The Black Hills welcome riders from around the world for the 86th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, Aug. 7-16. Rapid City makes an ideal rally basecamp, putting scenic rides, legendary landmarks, downtown dining, and plenty of post-ride entertainment within easy reach.
Back To School Block Party
Summer is not over without one more downtown celebration. The Back To School Block Party takes over Main Street Square from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 15, with giant water slides, inflatables, games, food trucks, local vendors, and family-friendly fun. Admission is free, though select activities require a wristband or ticket.
Central States Fair
The Central States Fair returns Aug. 21-29 with nine days of carnival rides, fair food, live entertainment, rodeo action, motorsports, exhibits, and the traditions that keep families coming back year after year. From the midway to the grandstand, this is summer in Rapid City at full volume.
Fall Sports Return
August also signals the return of Friday night lights and college competition. Rapid City’s high school teams get back in action as students fill the stands, bands fire up, and hometown rivalries begin another season. South Dakota Mines athletics also returns, bringing Hardrocker pride back to local fields, courts, and stadiums.
Whether you are chasing the roar of the rally, the lights of the midway, or the excitement of a new season, August gives Rapid City plenty to cheer about.