Annual Events & Festivals
Throughout the year, Rapid City has a wide variety of events to match all interests, budgets and lifestyles. Below are the major annual events that are too amazing to miss!
Mount Rushmore Evening Lighting Ceremony
The Evening Lighting Ceremony at Mount Rushmore is the number one attended program in the national parks service. Here's everything you need to know to attend!
Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup & Arts Festival
If you're searching for an event that combines the power of nature with unique Western heritage, the annual Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup is a must-see. Held every year at the end of September, this exciting event draws thousands of…
Crazy Horse Memorial® Volksmarch
Experience the thrill of the Crazy Horse Memorial ® Volksmarch, a event that takes place once in the spring and again in the fall and promises a hike unlike any other.
The Great Downtown Pumpkin Festival
Get ready to experience the ultimate autumn celebration! The Great Downtown Pumpkin Festival is not only the biggest annual event in Downtown Rapid City but a beloved tradition that embodies the heart and soul of the fall season…
Stratobowl Historic Hot Air Balloon Launch
Every September, the Stratobowl transforms into an iconic launching pad to celebrate history with the Stratobowl Historic Hot Air Balloon Launch. Over an entire weekend, ten to twelve seasoned balloonists gather for a…
Black Hills Powwow
Uncover a vibrant celebration of rich traditions and captivating cultural performances at the annual Black Hills Powwow. Held every October in Rapid City, this three-day extravaganza gathers dancers, singers, artists, and spectators from…
Bierborse Festival
Get ready to raise your steins and dive into a celebration like no other! Main Street Square's 14th annual Bierbörse is set to return this October, right in the heart of downtown Rapid City.
Cruiser Car Show
Roll into Downtown Rapid City with the classics during the Cruiser Car Show! Hosted by the Rapid City Police Department, this free event showcases an impressive lineup of classic cars from 2pm to 5pm, each with its own unique story. From…
Central States Fair
Looking for the perfect summer event? Look no further than the Central States Fair in Rapid City, where every year, this exciting festival brings together thrilling rides, mouth-watering food, and crowd-pleasing entertainment.
Sturgis Motorcycle Rally
Get ready to embrace the wild and legendary atmosphere of the Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally! Every August, the rolling hills of South Dakota roar to life as thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts gather for a celebration like no other.
Summer Nights Weekly Concert Series
Join the locals and celebrate the summer season at Rapid City's Summer Nights. This highly-anticipated, weekly concert series sets the rhythm of the season, transforming 7th Street in Downtown Rapid City into a vibrant hub of…
Mountain West Whiskey Festival in Rapid City
The Mountain West Whiskey Festival is the region’s premier event for whiskey enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or just beginning your journey into the world of whiskey, this festival offers a unique opportunity to…
Native POP: People of the Plains
Join us at Native P.O.P.: People of the Plains - a celebration of indigenous creativity, where art and culture take center stage.
West Boulevard Summer Festival
Come experience an endearing community tradition celebrated for over 40 years, the West Boulevard Summer Festival! Taking place in the scenic Wilson Park, right next to the historic West Boulevard, this festival occurs every…
Frühlingsfest & Street Market
Celebrating the vibrancy of spring in the heart of Rapid City has never been more delightful! Join us at the annual Frühlingsfest & Street Market in the bustling Downtown at Main Street Square – an event stirred up with the…
Badlands Astronomy Festival
Join space buffs and starry-eyed newbies alike at the Annual Badlands Astronomy Festival for a cosmic celebration! Our dark skies and the wonders of space exploration come alive with daily family-friendly activities and evening…