Events in Black Hills

Danny Potter

Enjoy an evening of live music with Danny Potter at Ridgeline Roadhouse at Horse Creek Resort in the Black Hills. A full menu of food and drinks will be available, including spiked coffees, cocktails, beer, and more. The setting is relaxed and welcoming, perfect for unwinding after time at the lake or planning a laid back night out with friends. Settle in for good tunes, chilled drinks, and friendly company.

AUG6

Party at the Pavilion brings Nashville recording artist Mark Mackay to Cohort Brewery Black Hills for an evening of live music in the brewery’s pavilion. Free general admission tickets are available. An optional raffle is offered for $5 per entry, which can be added during registration or purchased at either Cohort Brewery location. The prize package includes $500 cash, a meet and greet with Mark Mackay, an autographed Mark Mackay T-shirt, a Cohort hat, a Cohort picnic blanket, and a 385 stainless steel water mug. You must be present at the drawing to win.

Cohort Craft Brewery

Playmakers The Hobbit Magic the Gathering Prerelease Sealed Tournament

Experience a head-to-head sealed Magic: The Gathering prerelease themed around The Hobbit, run at the Regular organized play level. Build your deck from a sealed pool, then compete in three Swiss rounds, with each match decided as best of three. Participation is limited to 20 players, and in-store registration secures a seat. The entry fee is $45. Prizes are booster packs, with one awarded for every match win.

Cohort Craft Brewery - Black Hills

Party at the Pavilion with Mark Mackay

A pavilion party comes to Cohort Craft Brewery - Black Hills, headlined by Mark Mackay and joined by special guest Sundown Messiah. Presented by 385 Productions, this rock-focused event centers on live music in a brewery setting.

Participants face off one on one in a casual Gundam TCG constructed tournament. Matches run in a Swiss format with best of one games. The roster is limited to 16 players. Entry costs $5. Prize support may include promos, booster packs, or store credit, with amounts scaled to attendance.

Playmakers One Piece Weekly Play Tournament

Take part in a casual weekly 1v1 constructed tournament that uses a Swiss structure with best of 1 matches. Participation is capped at 16 players. The entry fee is $5, and prizes scale with attendance, featuring promos, booster packs, and store credit.

Sales & Discounts

Date Night Discount

Present a same-evening receipt from a local downtown restaurant to receive 10% off; RSVP is optional.

Kickstands Sturgis features country singer Elvie Shane on the Outdoor Main Stage. The show runs from 9:00 PM to 10:30 PM, and the concert is held at Kickstands in Sturgis.

Kickstands Campground

AUG8

Playmakers Disney Lorcana Weekly Play Tournament

Experience a casual organized play tournament built around weekly 1v1 core constructed play. The event uses a Swiss format with best of three matches, and space is limited to 32 participants. The entry fee is $5, and prizes may include promos, booster packs, or store credit that scale with attendance.

AUG8

Guided by a commitment to awareness, healing, and honoring relatives, this ride recognizes Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives and stands with families who continue their search for truth and justice, with healing at the center. Registration takes place at Bear Butte State Park, then participants set out together and conclude at Outlaw Square in Deadwood. The purpose is solidarity, remembrance, and resiliency.

Bear Butte State Park

Playmakers Magic the Gathering Commander Open Play

This is a Magic: The Gathering Commander session presented in a multiplayer constructed, open play format. The environment welcomes both casual and competitive participants, with space capped at 32 players. Entry is $5, and each participant receives a promo and a booster pack.

Petco Adoption Event

Connect with adoptable cats and kittens at Petco in Rapid City. There are often more animals available than those present at the event, since some felines prefer quieter spaces, so a broader selection can be explored online as well. An adoption application and home check are required. To help the process go quickly, complete the application in advance and be ready to provide a video walk through of the main areas of your home so you may take your new family member home the same day. All adopted cats must leave in a carrier for their safety and yours. The adoption fee is $130 plus tax, it includes a prepaid Avid microchip and the service fees. Adoption fees can be paid by debit or credit card. Donations are appreciated at the event, including items from a posted wishlist, and can be made by PayPal, Venmo, cash, or card. Those interested in fostering can also submit a foster application, and a current list of available kitties can be viewed online.

Petco

The ShotGunBillys — Kickstands Sturgis

Catch the high-energy southern rock sounds of The ShotGunBillys at Kickstands during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. This free concert runs from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM on the Indoor Stage. Access note: you’ll need to be 21+ to enter Kickstands during the rally, and after 7:00 PM a Kickstands wristband admission is required to stay in the Bar and Grill/Venue area.

Kickstands Campground

Creed Fisher

Creed Fisher performs live at Kickstands in Sturgis. The show starts at 9:00 PM.

Kickstands Campground

DAD BOD CONTEST

Contestants will compete in a playful celebration of dad bods and dance skills, vying for top honors. There is no cost to participate, and every entrant receives a prize. Highway Vixen serves as host.

38 Special with special guests Lita Ford & Moonshine Bandits

38 Special headlines a live music event with special guests Lita Ford and Moonshine Bandits. The three-act lineup spans decades of hits and fan favorites, offering high energy performances and a memorable evening that lingers well after the last song.

Full Throttle Saloon

Jessica Loobey

Jessica Loobey brings a high-energy blend of country, rock, and outlaw soul to Sidehack Saloon for two evenings during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Riders and rally-goers can expect great food, cold drinks, and live music that keeps the celebration going, whether the day was spent exploring the Black Hills or taking in the Rally. This popular Sturgis destination sets the stage for a lively soundtrack to the festivities.

Sidehack Saloon

Glencoe Camp Resort-Sturgis, South Dakota

Glencoe Camp Resort in Sturgis, South Dakota presents Mr Crowley’s Ozzy Experience, a high-energy tribute that faithfully delivers the greatest hits of Ozzy Osbourne and Black Sabbath. Regarded as one of the premier Ozzy tributes in North America, the band has earned praise from outlets including the Los Angeles Times, KCAL Radio, and KNAC Radio for capturing the sound and spirit of the originals. Expect a powerhouse set filled with classic anthems performed with precision and intensity.

Glencoe Camp Resort

Whiskey Rio rolls into Sidehack Saloon during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally for a late night takeover fueled by a signature blend of Outlaw and Red Dirt country with Classic and Southern rock. Expect a loud, raw charge as the evening builds, with the saloon shifting into a roadhouse revival once the bikes are parked and the crowd gets thirsty. The energy stays high late into the night, matching the spirit of the rally from first chord to last.

Sidehack Saloon

AUG12

The Journey Museum Theater

At the Journey Museum, author Matthew Davis presents insights from his new book, A Biography of a Mountain: The Making and Meaning of Mount Rushmore. The program examines how Mount Rushmore was built and the stories connected to this landmark. It also considers how memorials shape understanding of the past by asking essential questions such as what a memorial is, who it serves, what stories it tells, and where it is placed. Attendees can learn, reflect, and participate in a conversation about monuments and the histories they hold.

AUG13

Old Storybook Island Shelter

This free annual fundraiser brings families together for a picnic-style gathering. Food and drinks are provided by CLM, with family yard games, a bouncy castle for kids, and background music setting the tone. The event concludes with the annual drawing for a grand prize, a $3,000 vacation gift certificate. Tickets can be purchased for a chance to win the grand prize, and purchasing them supports the fundraiser.

Freedom Path Recovery Group

This 12-step group meets each week for those on a recovery journey. It is open to everyone.

Playmakers One Piece Weekly Play Tournament

This weekly One Piece tournament features head-to-head constructed play in a Swiss format with single‑game rounds, creating several chances to compete in a relaxed, casual setting. Participation is limited to 16 players and the entry fee is $5. Prizes include promos, booster packs, or store credit, with amounts adjusted based on attendance.

Playmakers Magic the Gathering Friday Night Magic Modern Tournament

Players compete in a Friday Night Magic Modern Constructed tournament featuring one-on-one matches. The event uses a Swiss format with best-of-three rounds and is run at a casual level of organized play. Participation is capped at 32 players. The entry fee is $5. Prizes may include promos, booster packs, or store credit, with amounts adjusted according to attendance.

Sales & Discounts

Minneapolis-based shock rock outfit Caster Volor brings a full night of hard rock and heavy metal to Murphy’s Pub. Known for outrageous, vaudeville-flavored theatrics, the band pairs gritty, anthemic originals with an immersive stage show that keeps the energy high from start to finish. Their sound nods to legends like Motley Crue, Judas Priest, and W.A.S.P., while drawing on the darker industrial pulse of Rob Zombie, Alice Cooper, and Rammstein. Alongside their own songs, they deliver hard-hitting covers that can span KISS, Billy Idol, and AC/DC, with surprising twists like LMFAO and even Enrique Iglesias reworked through their dramatic rock lens. No cover charge.

Take part in Disney Lorcana weekly play featuring 1v1 Core Constructed matches in a casual organized play setting. The tournament uses a Swiss format with best of three rounds, allows up to 32 players, has a $5 entry fee, and offers promos, booster packs, or store credit scaled to attendance.

AUG15

Playmakers Gundam TCG Weekly Play Tournament

This weekly Gundam trading card game tournament features one-on-one constructed play in a Swiss format with best-of-one rounds. It runs at a casual level of organized play and is limited to 16 participants. The entry fee is $5. Prizes scale with attendance and can include promos, booster packs, or store credit.

AUG15

Carson Brown Band and more

A free, rescheduled in-person performance brings The Carson Brown Band together with special guests the Stateline Ramblers. The Carson Brown Band, rooted in the Custer and Hill City area of southwest South Dakota, delivers country honky-tonk and classic rock that keeps the dance floor busy. Active since 2021, the group has built a loyal following and earned the 2023 Steve Thorpe Music Award.

Cohort Craft Brewery

AUG15

Sundays at Robbinsdale Bowling Alley feature $2 games, $2 shoe rentals, and a $2 discount on any food item you order.

AUG16

Playmakers Magic the Gathering Commander Open Play

Enjoy an open play gathering for Magic: The Gathering in the Commander multiplayer constructed format. The event accommodates both casual and competitive play, with room for up to 32 participants. Entry is $5, and each player receives one promo and one booster pack.

AUG16

Petco Adoption Event

Meet adoptable cats and kittens at Petco in Rapid City. Not every available feline will be on site, since some prefer calmer settings, so the event selection may be smaller than the full list. Adoptions require an approved application and a home check. To help things move quickly, have your application completed and be ready to show a video walk-through of the main areas of your home. For safety, all pets must leave in a carrier. The adoption fee is $130 plus tax and includes service fees and a pre-paid Avid microchip. Adoption payments can be made by debit or credit card. Donations are welcome and may be given by cash, card, PayPal, or Venmo, and wishlist items are appreciated.

Petco

AUG16

The Wilt Brothers

Head inside for a free indoor concert featuring The Wilt Brothers Band, a group that has been entertaining across the Black Hills and the Midwest for years. Expect classic country favorites with some well-known rock and roll favorites mixed in, plus lively performances with plenty of bandstand antics. The group combines a full range of instruments and vocals, with all five members singing and harmonizing.

Kickstands Bar and Grill

Monument Health Sturgis Clinic

Free Sports Physicals (Sturgis)

Monument Health is offering complimentary sports physicals for local athletes, with an emphasis on supporting their goals and delivering quality care. These services are available on a walk-in basis only at the Monument Health Sturgis Clinic, making it simple to stop in without an appointment.

Paint the Rock Pink 2026

Paint the Rock Pink is a leading women's golf tournament hosted at The Golf Club at Red Rock in Rapid City, South Dakota. Established in 2008, this charity event was created to support women in the fight against cancer. Funds raised support the Image Restoration Program at Monument Health Cancer Care Institute, which helps local cancer patients. Details about tickets and donations will be announced soon, and updates will be posted.

Golf Club at Red Rock

Kool Deadwood Nites 2026

Kool Deadwood Nites packs six days with classic cars, vintage hits, and easygoing fun. The vibe channels a 1950s and 1960s sock hop with a Deadwood twist, complete with a parade, a show and shine, and free concerts on Main Street that spotlight rock and roll’s biggest names. For 2026, the festivities start a day earlier, with Tuesday’s entertainment and activities to be announced, plus new Wednesday offerings tailored for classic car owners.

Main Street

Hot Springs August Customer Appreciation BBQ at BFS

A customer appreciation barbecue at BFS Hot Springs brings people together for food and conversation. Attendees can explore the latest products and installation methods presented by vendor partner sponsors. The gathering focuses on thanking customers while offering a relaxed chance to connect and learn about what is new.

Builders FirstSource

Grace Balloch Memorial Library

LEGO Club - Ages 8+

Build, imagine, and create at a monthly LEGO Club session for builders ages 8 and up. The third Wednesday of the month is dedicated to this age group. All supplies are provided, and snacks are available so participants can focus on their creations.

Book Club @The Local Rapid City

Settle in at The Local for Books & Brews, a welcoming book club open to all readers in Rapid City, South Dakota. Meetings are held on a recurring basis, and the venue stays open to the public while the group gathers, so arriving late or leaving early is no problem. The club continues each month with plans for a celebration at the end of the year, and upcoming selections can be found in the discussion section. Mitzi’s Books offers a 15% discount on the monthly picks when you mention The Local book club, valid only for the listed selections. New participants are welcome anytime.

The Local

Tunes for Tails

This free benefit concert supports Western Hills Humane Society in Spearfish and brings together music, hearts and homes. Highlights include food from local food trucks, beverage tents featuring taps from Spearfish Brewing, a 50/50 drawing, and music by The Black Asters. All proceeds support WHHS.

City Park

Spearfish August Customer Appreciation BBQ at BFS

This customer appreciation BBQ features tasty food and friendly company. Attendees can be thanked for their support and explore the latest products and installation methods presented by vendor partner sponsors.

Builders FirstSource

Spearfish Canyon Golf Club

RFK Tee it Up for the Kids

REALTORS for Kids hosts the Tee It Up for Kids Golf Tournament at Spearfish Canyon Country Club. The tournament features a shotgun start, friendly competition, on-course games, and prizes, all in support of local children.

Canyon Grille at Boulder Canyon

Ruthie Craft at The Canyon Grille

Enjoy a performance by Ruthie Craft at Canyon Grille at Boulder Canyon, with no admission charge.

Third Thursday Bowling Group

Meadowood Bowling Alley sets aside a few lanes for a bowling group centered on teens and adults on the Autism Spectrum. Games cost $5 each and shoe rentals are free. Several lanes are reserved for the group and the number can be adjusted based on interest. Parents and caregivers should stay, as no ASBH staff will be present, and they may bowl on separate lanes if space allows. The focus is creating a simple, social setting to enjoy the game together.

Meadowood Lanes

Rapid City Public Library

Little Explorers

Bring camping indoors for a hands-on, kid-friendly program at the library. Children ages 3–6 can play and learn with activities centered on what makes camping fun. The session includes sensory play, STEM-style activities, and stories.

Deadwood Mountain Grand Hotel & Casino

Jacob Tolliver appearing in Million Dollar Reunion

Jacob Tolliver is performing in Deadwood. Expect a country-leaning, honky-tonk flavored set that fits right in with the rockabilly and americana vibe of the venue. The show starts at 7:00 PM.

Mr. Wu's Deadwood Nights | THUNDERSTRUCK

Thunderstruck will bring a rock show to Mr Wu's Deadwood Nights.

Mr Wu's

The Park 707 Sports Bar & Nightlife

Four Winds Music & Art Fest (Rapid City)

A two day music and art festival comes to Rapid City at 707 Nightlife, featuring live performances across Friday and Saturday. Friday kicks off with Treehouse!, Camp Comfort, and more. Saturday expands the lineup with As Cities Burn, Psychostick, Green Jello, From This Day Forward, Dot Dot Curve, Go For Gold, Fueled By Spite, The Outside KIds, Truly Veda, Graveyard Choir, No Advisory, WIcked Six, Goodfire, Akwrd, and Half Dead & Guardian Angel. This event welcomes all ages.

ArenaCross & Freestyle MotoX Show

Fair week blasts off with a thunder of engines and a spray of dirt as arenacross racing and freestyle motocross storm into the LEI Arena to kick off the Central States Fair. The racing keeps the pace relentless, then the freestyle segment turns it up with towering jumps, gravity-challenging tricks, and midair flips that have the crowd holding its breath one moment and erupting the next. Loud, fast, and a little wild, it is a high-energy start that leaves everyone buzzing.

Custer Community Rummage Sale

Browse for bargains, unique pieces, and unexpected treasures at a community rummage sale spread across the Custer area, with sales taking place at various spots throughout town. While you explore, businesses in downtown Custer feature special sales and promotions as part of a shopping event, creating even more opportunities to shop and discover great finds.

Downtown Custer

Mile High Bingo

Join us every Friday for Mile High Bingo at Greenfield Pub. There are 10 exciting rounds each week with awesome prizes, and cards are $10 per stack (each stack gives you one card for every game). Each stack also includes a raffle ticket for a chance to win during the free drink drawings, plus there’s a grand prize up for grabs in game 10.

Greenfield Pub

DAY DRINKIN' SESSIONS

Part of a summer series at Loud American Sturgis, Day Drinkin' Sessions offers a casual outdoor gathering in the Jack Daniels Club Pavilion with live music, games, and specials on food and drinks. For this session, Dos Mustachos takes the stage.

Loud American Sturgis

Mommy & Me Workshop

Enjoy a hands on painting session where a parent and child decorate chicken themed terracotta pots together. Each pair receives one 5 inch pot for the adult and one 3 inch pot for the child, with all paints, brushes, and supplies provided. Every pot includes a choice of live succulent, plus potting soil and planting time at the end, so finished creations can go home the same day. The design is beginner friendly and focuses on quality time, creativity, and making memories. Dads are welcome too. The workshop runs 60 to 90 minutes. Each ticket is for one parent and one child. Spots are limited. Tickets are non refundable 48 hours prior to the event.

The Plant Shop

Ruthie Craft and Devon Sants at the Custer Beacon

Ruthie Craft and Devon Sants perform at The Custer Beacon. Admission is free, so you can enjoy the show without a cover.

The Custer Beacon

Mountain States Ford Demolition Derby

Roaring engines set the tone at Central States Fair as the Mountain States Ford Demolition Derby returns for one hard-hitting night. Drivers collide and grind through clouds of dust in a survival-style contest where the last vehicle still moving earns the bragging rights. The night brings bumper-bending hits, narrow escapes, and a whirlwind of chaos, with one stubborn car somehow clattering on when no one can figure out why. This is not a race, it is about endurance, impact, and the thrill that builds the moment a bumper drops and the showdown truly begins.

Outdoor Recreation

WanderWild Trail+Art

Wander Wild: Trail + Art brings outdoor exploration together with creativity in a free, family-friendly gathering in Lead. The meetup begins in the Christ Episcopal Church community hall, using the Julius St. entrance, then continues on a nearby trail for guided time in nature and art-making inspired by what participants observe. Local artists lead hands-on activities, and all art materials are provided. All ages are welcome, and children should attend with an adult. Dress for the weather, wear comfortable walking shoes, and bring a water bottle. Registration is requested to help prepare materials. Presented by Creative Explorations Nonprofit with support from Coeur Wharf, I Care for the Black Hills, Christ Episcopal Church, Sturgis Public Library, and CAT Scratch Studios.

Christ Church Episcopal

2026 Four Winds Music and Art Festival - Saturday

Catch a lineup of heavy rock and metal acts at Aby's in Rapid City. The show features performances by As Cities Burn, From This Day Forward, and Psychostick.

Aby's Rapid City

Rumble in the Hills 2026

Get ready for the 6th annual Rumble in the Hills, an onsite team competition for RX, Masters/Intermediate, and FUN divisions. Teams of 3 will compete in a mixed-gender format (either Male/Male/Female or Female/Female/Male). A couple of the workouts will be released during the summer, and the event includes a range of movements such as muscle-ups, pull-up variations, double-unders, wall balls, sandbags, and different run/row/bike/ski options, with weights varying by division. Registration is $350 per team.

FLEX Fitness Club

Karaoke Saturdays

Get ready to sing your heart out at Karaoke Saturdays. Greenfield Pub brings a huge song library and great sound, making it a fun night for anyone who wants to take the mic and share their vocals. It runs late into the night.

Greenfield Pub

AUG23

Sip & Saddle | A Cowboy's Guide to Wine Tasting

Enjoy a playful wine tasting experience with a Western twist at the Central States Fair. Sip & Saddle with the Wine Wrangler returns for three afternoons only, blending beginner friendly guidance with cowboy charm, easy laughs, and a relaxed setting that makes discovering wine feel approachable. Guests explore the five S’s of tasting, learning to see, swirl, sniff, sip, and savor with confidence. This edition introduces new wines to try and fresh flavor pairings to test the palate. Every attendee receives a new take home gift, and the session concludes with a complimentary 5 ounce pour of a favorite tasting wine. The atmosphere stays casual with no pressure and no need for insider jargon, making it a good fit for first timers, seasoned enthusiasts, date day plans, friends out together, and anyone seeking something fun and different at the Fair.

AUG23

PRCA Range Days Rodeo

Back at the Central States Fair, the PRCA Range Days Rodeo brings three nights of elite competition and the spirit of Western heritage to summer evenings glowing under the arena lights. A longstanding tradition at the Fair, it showcases leading cowboys and cowgirls in high-intensity arena moments. Expect bull riding, bareback and saddle bronc riding, steer wrestling, barrel racing, plus team roping and tie-down roping from start to finish.

AUG23

High Plains Western Heritage Center

Western Plains Heritage Center – Strait George

Come out for High Plains Western Heritage Center’s annual fundraising concert and BBQ. The BBQ runs from 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM, and the concert featuring JJ Kent with Aces & 8s performing a tribute to George Strait, “Strait George,” starts at 2:00 PM. Doors open at 1:30 PM. Free parking is available and the event is all ages.

AUG24

Ask A Scientist with Mark Hanhardt

Bring your questions about neutrinos, dark matter, astrophysics, and the mile deep science at the Sanford Underground Research Facility to a conversational Ask a Scientist session with SURF physicist and experiment support scientist Mark Hanhardt. Taking place at the Sanford Lab Homestake Visitor Center, this Q&A centers on audience questions and clear explanations about the research happening in the nation’s deepest underground laboratory.

AUG25

NHTC : 50th Anniversary Reunion & Celebration!

The 50th Anniversary Celebration and Reunion honors five decades of NHTC, bringing together people connected to the organization from 1976 through 2026. Friends, family, community members, supporters, past and present employees, businesses, neighbors, and individuals who have received services can reconnect, share memories, laugh, and celebrate this milestone. The gathering takes place at the Fred Romkema Center and its parking lot. Expect a lively atmosphere with music, food, and plenty of fun. A large turnout is anticipated, and walking or biking is encouraged to help keep parking available.

Fred Romkema Center

AUG25

PRCA Range Days Rodeo

The PRCA Range Days Rodeo is back at the Central States Fair with three evenings of elite rodeo action, classic Western flair, and memorable nights under the lights. A true Fair tradition, it brings nonstop thrills from the moment the chute gates open as top cowboys and cowgirls compete in bull riding, bareback and saddle bronc riding, steer wrestling, barrel racing, and team roping and tie-down roping.

AUG26

Civic

Sturgis Library Board Meeting

The Board of Trustees of the Sturgis Public Library holds its regular public meeting in the Council Chambers at City Hall. Everyone is welcome to attend, with options to participate in person or virtually. In-person attendees should use the Sherman Street entrance. A livestream is available for those joining online. Agendas and minutes from previous meetings can be found on the iCompass Portal. For questions, contact the Sturgis Public Library at (605) 347-2624.

Sturgis City Hall

AUG26

Lead Library August Book Club

The Lead Library book club meeting focuses on Matthew Davis's A Biography of a Mountain: The Making and Meaning of Mount Rushmore, selected as this year's One Book South Dakota. The group will read and discuss the book, with conversation centered on the monument's creation and meaning.

Lead Public Library

Chess Club

Learn the game or sharpen your tactics in a welcoming setting where players take part in casual games that build concentration, logical thinking, and patience. Open to all ages and skill levels, this chess meetup takes place at the Sturgis Public Library. Participants can explore fundamentals as well as more advanced approaches while enjoying relaxed, supportive play.

Sturgis Public Library

Jo Dee Messina

Jo Dee Messina takes the stage at the Central States Fair with a set that reaches across her catalog, weaving longtime favorites with new material from her forthcoming album, Bridges. Expect a full-voice singalong to staples like Heads Carolina, Tails California, Bye Bye, I'm Alright, Bring On The Rain, and My Give a Damn's Busted. These songs have accompanied road trips, friendships, and life’s ups and downs, and this performance brings those memories together while the next chapter begins to take shape. It is an evening where fans of all ages can show up and know the words by heart.

PENTAGRAM STRING BAND // SWAMP RATS

Pentagram String Band and Swamp Rats perform at VFW Post 1273, with additional local acts to be announced. Admission is $10 with a NOTAFLOF policy. Please note the venue rules: no drugs, no underage drinking, and no drama.

VFW Post 1273

7th Annual Hats Off To Lead Golf Tournament

The Lead Area Chamber of Commerce presents its annual Hats Off To Lead fundraiser, a lighthearted golf tournament in the Black Hills. Participants can enjoy unconventional hole games, prizes, plenty of laughs, and a provided lunch. Teams of two are $150, and the tournament fills quickly.

Lead Country Club

Black Hills Energy Concert Series

Catch country star Jo Dee Messina as part of the Central State Fair. The concert takes place at Central State Fair Ground in Rapid City. Tickets are listed as on sale now.

Freakshow Customs Freaky Fridays!

Enjoy $3 beers and live music for a freakishly good time.

Freakshow Customs

Billy Currington

A night with Billy Currington quickly becomes a run of songs you already know by heart. One familiar track leads to the next, from People Are Crazy and Good Directions to Pretty Good at Drinkin’ Beer, Must Be Doin’ Somethin’ Right, Do I Make You Wanna, and We Are Tonight, until it clicks that they all come from the same voice. Over the past twenty years, he has built one of country music’s most enduring collections of hits, the kind that set the tone for road trips, backyard get togethers, late nights, and Friday evenings with friends.

Lonesome💔Jones @ Diamond Lil's!

Live music fills Diamond Lil's on the third floor of The Midnight Star Casino. Look forward to plenty of tunes for dancing, along with food and drinks to enjoy in a relaxed setting.

Diamond Lil's

Hot Springs Municipal Airport

Fall River Flight Fest

Formerly the Fall River Hot Air Balloon Festival, Fall River Flight Fest arrives with a new name and a broader lineup of aerial attractions. In addition to hot air balloons, the event will feature skydivers, airplanes, and more, offering an expanded celebration of flight. A full schedule with events, locations, and times will be shared.

History on the Lawn: Native American Culture and History with JJ Kent

JJ Kent shares insights into Lakota history, culture, and spiritual traditions, informed by teachings he received from respected elders such as Floyd "Looks For Buffalo" Hand, James Dubray, and Joe Brown Eyes. The program welcomes non-Native audiences to learn and foster understanding, emphasizing education and cultural appreciation. Pack a lunch and relax on the lawn at the Historic Adams House. Admission is free for members and $5 for non-members. If it rains, the talk will be relocated to the Homestake Adams Research and Cultural Center (HARCC).

Historic Adams House

DALE HEINLE MUSIC

Put on your dancing shoes for music by Dale Heinle. The emphasis is on dancing throughout.

Sturgis Veterans Club

Rusty Rierson- Live in 707 Sports Bar

Rusty Rierson returns to 707 Sports Bar in the Black Hills for a free performance featuring country favorites, oldies, original songs, and a touch of comedy. The Kansas native has appeared on radio and television, performed across the Midwest, and shared the stage with Sawyer Brown, Collin Raye, Suzy Bogguss, and John Berry. He also advanced to Round 3 of American Idol. There is no cover.

707 Nightlife

Hollywood Swingin' with the South Dakota Jazz Orchestra!

The South Dakota Jazz Orchestra closes its summer run with an open-air show on the Hay Camp Brewing Co. patio, highlighting beloved themes from movies and classic television. Guided by music director and composer in residence Danny Thornburg, the 16-piece band delivers a cinematic program that travels from outer space to the American frontier to pulse-quickening car chases. The performance features accomplished players from across South Dakota and marks the finale of the season.

Hay Camp Brewing Company

The Journey Museum Theater

A Mountain Bike Film Festival - Love the Outdoors Series

Freehub Presents offers an annual mountain bike film festival and community series that screens never-before-seen short films from accomplished riders and filmmakers. This traveling program spotlights established and up-and-coming storytellers, athletes, and community leaders who are shaping the future of the sport. Expect sweeping scenery, memorable adventures, and narratives about perseverance, innovation, and connection that reflect the spirit of mountain biking and the people who make it special. The Black Hills Bike Hub, a Rapid City nonprofit dedicated to trail maintenance and development, inclusive community building, and advocacy for the riding infrastructure needed in Rapid City and the Black Hills, is part of the community focus highlighted here. Presented with support from SRAM, Maxxis, evo, Leatt, and Orbea. Admission is free and open to the public, with RSVP required.

Gary Allan

Gary Allan brings his unmistakable voice to the Central States Fair as part of the Black Hills Energy Concert Series. Spanning more than two decades, his career includes over eight million albums sold, five number one singles, and fourteen Top 10 hits. The performance draws from fan favorites such as Watching Airplanes, Nothing On But The Radio, Best I Ever Had, Man To Man, and Every Storm (Runs Out of Rain). Known for soulful vocals, a rebellious streak, and a high-energy stage presence, Allan’s songs often become the soundtrack to first loves, heartbreaks, open-road drives, old friendships, and summer nights that linger in memory.

Pure Pactola 2026

Pure Pactola brings open water swimmers together on the largest lake in the Black Hills of South Dakota for a scenic, energizing race with options for every experience level. Participants can choose from four distances of 0.5 mile, 1.2 miles, 2.4 miles, or a 5K, and there is an approximately 200 meter swim for newcomers or anyone wanting a shorter challenge. Prizes are awarded within each distance for male and female divisions, along with additional creative categories. Registration is open. The entry fee is the same for all swimmers and distances except the 200 meter option, with prices ranging from $70 to $135 depending on the registration period. Each entry includes a beach barbecue lunch and a latex swim cap, and shirts and towels can be added during registration. An early bird offer is available for a limited time.

Pactola Pines Marina

Black Hills Spiritual Center for Peace

Roots & Rhythm - A Family Celebration

Roots & Rhythm is a family celebration featuring live music and entertainment, activities for kids, plus a silent auction, a dessert auction, and a quilt raffle. Proceeds benefit the Little Lights Kids Program, which helps children gain confidence and become bright lights in the world. Raffle tickets are available at 1 for $10 or 3 for $20.

Big Sky Reptile Expo, Rapid City Edition

The Big Sky Reptile Expo brings its Rapid City edition to The Monument with a lively mix of reptiles, education, and family-friendly fun. Enthusiasts, first-time keepers, and curious visitors can explore a large selection from professional breeders and vendors from across the United States. Expect reptiles and amphibians along with invertebrates, exotic plants, bioactive supplies, enclosures, feeders, and décor. Attendees can connect with knowledgeable experts, learn about responsible care, and discover species from around the world. The event offers a welcoming atmosphere with plenty of photo opportunities. The James of the Jungle Educational Kids Show invites kids and adults to meet amazing reptiles up close while learning about wildlife, conservation, and good animal stewardship. Ticket options include VIP Plus, VIP, and general admission, and an early entry option is available for those who want to browse before the crowds and get the first look at available animals.

Summer Sunset Festival

Join the Summer Sunset Festival at Main Street Square for a laid-back downtown celebration to toast the last days of summer. The evening runs from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM and features live music, a Beverage Garden with craft and domestic beers, wine, and non-alcoholic options, plus a curated lineup of local vendors and food options. String lights and sunset set the mood, making it a fun, social atmosphere for browsing, snacking, and sipping. Families and kids are welcome, even though the event is primarily geared toward adults.

Main Street Square

Love the Outdoors Series: A Mountain Bike Film Festival — The Journey Museum

Join the Journey Museum for a mountain bike film festival as part of the Love the Outdoors series. Black Hills Bike Hub brings adventure biking to the big screen with Freehub PRESENTS, featuring unreleased short films from filmmakers and riders. Doors open early with the event starting in the evening, and the festival is free to the public, though RSVP is required and space is limited. There is also a suggested $20 donation that supports the Bike Hub in making this an annual event.

The Journey Museum

Karaoke Saturdays

Sing your heart out at Karaoke Saturdays at Greenfield Pub. The night is dedicated to karaoke, with a huge song library and great sound, so you can get up and perform with friends. Come ready for a fun, high-energy night of singing.

Greenfield Pub

AUG30

SUMMER MUSIC SERIES: Johnny Lonesome Band

Settle in on the lawn for live music and good food as the Summer Music Series welcomes the Johnny Lonesome Band. This free event is open to the public. Ruth’s Kitchen will be on site with a food truck, and beer and wine will be available for purchase. It is family friendly, and leashed pets are welcome. Pack a blanket or lawn chair and invite a friend for a laid-back experience.

1881 Courthouse Museum

AUG31

Sturgis Mustang Rally- 20th Annual Celebration

Now in its 20th year, this celebration features show and shine, drag racing, autocross, burnouts, cruises, a poker run, and barrel racing, along with additional activities. It is shaping up to be the biggest edition yet.

Thunderdome

SEP1

Outdoor Recreation

Trolly on the Trail

Take a guided ride along the Mickelson Trail aboard an open-air trolley, traveling from Englewood to Rochford. The trip begins at the Deadwood Trailhead, in the parking area on Sherman Street, and includes engaging stories and wide-open views of the Black Hills. It is well suited for people with limited mobility as well as anyone who prefers a relaxed way to see the trail. Seating is limited, so reservations are recommended at 605-578-1401. For questions, call 605-584-2739.

Deadwood Trailhead

SEP2

The Book Report

Connect with fellow readers for a relaxed conversation about books. Share what you are currently reading, talk about longtime favorites, and discover new recommendations. Bring a book and a friend, or come solo and make new connections with other book lovers.

Petals & Pages

SEP2

Arkansauce at the Spearfish Public House

Arkansauce returns to Spearfish for a music event at Spearfish Public House. The Spearfish Bike Week Pub Crawl will wrap up at this event, and a portion of drink sale profits will be donated to the Spearfish Youth Mountain Bike Club.

Spearfish Public House

SEP4

SDC NORTH CENTRAL ZONE MEET AND 48TH ANNUAL STUDEBAKER AND PACKARD LABOR DAY WEEKEND EVENT

In Custer, South Dakota, the Studebaker Drivers Club’s North Central Zone gathering takes place alongside the 48th annual Labor Day weekend event focused on Studebaker and Packard. Presented by the Dakotas Chapter of the Studebaker Drivers Club, this is a multi-day occasion centered on these marques.

Mariposa Road

SEP4

Labor Day Arts & Crafts Festival and Farmers' Market

At Way Park, a weekend of creativity unfolds with a Labor Day arts and crafts fair alongside a farmers' market. Look for vibrant artistry, thoughtful handiwork, and a friendly community atmosphere. It is a fitting stop for art enthusiasts, shoppers seeking handmade pieces, and families interested in relaxed fun.

Way Park

SEP4

Deadwood, SD VIP Special Event: Sovereign Signals: Spirit Communication, Discernment & Direction

A VIP evening unfolds in the two story Executive Suite at The Lodge, complete with a wraparound deck and wide views of the hills around Deadwood. The program centers on Sovereign Signals, a teaching workshop on spirit communication, discernment, and putting spiritual messages to work in daily life. It opens with a relaxed meet and greet offering appetizers, beverages, and a VIP gift bag, continues with keynote talks by Jennifer Lonnberg and Kristen Marchus, and concludes with an integration segment that features a live demonstration with mediumship and angel guidance readings. Designed for those interested in recognizing spiritual and angelic guidance, the workshop explores how to tune into intuition, reframe negative self talk, and embrace personal gifts in a grounded, practical way. Jennifer Lonnberg is a spiritual teacher and speaker whose work emphasizes embodied awakening, discernment, and conscious self leadership. She blends spiritual wisdom with actionable guidance to build self trust, inner authority, and clarity, drawing on her Sovereignty Codex framework to support alignment and meaningful transformation. Kristen Marchus is a spiritual medium and mindfulness mentor with a bachelor’s in psychology, a master’s in counseling, and more than 25 years of corporate experience. She connects people with loved ones in spirit and helps career minded individuals understand energy to create harmony at work and at home. Admission is $125.

Lodge at Deadwood

SEP5

Garden Field Trip

Explore an abundant vegetable garden and high tunnel with instructor Jenny Behlings. See tomato plants reaching about ten feet and hanging from the rafters, pumpkins and squash sprawling along the paths, and beds brimming with beans, strawberries, peppers, carrots, cabbage, and broccoli. Learn practical methods for building raised beds, creating deer-proof fencing, improving soil with the right amendments, planning and planting for success, harvesting at the right time, and preparing perennial plants for winter. The visit also covers orchard layout and ways to keep fruit trees thriving at this elevation. There will be time to relax with refreshments and ask questions, and participants can plan on taking home some produce. Cost is $25. Pre-registration by phone is available through the EWC Outreach office at 307-746-3603.

J.Ellen Design & Market

SEP5

SOS Spiritual & Holistic Expo- Deadwood, SD

In Deadwood, the Souls of Spirit Spiritual and Holistic Expo sets up at the Lodge at Deadwood with a welcoming mix of spiritual and wellness offerings. Explore vendors that may feature energy healing, essential oils, spirituality resources, health professionals, intuitive consultants, crystals and stones, sage and incense, card readers, authors with book signings, aura photography, healing jewelry, ancestral healing, palm readers, animal communication, healing of the land, psychics, mediums, reiki practitioners, and handmade goods. A group mediumship gallery is planned along with four speakers. Entry is $5 and includes access to the speakers, and the gallery event is $25. The first 25 attendees receive a gift bag filled with items from participating vendors. This family friendly gathering aims to offer something for everyone.

Lodge at Deadwood

SEP6

Studebaker Car Show

An annual celebration of Studebaker automobiles in Custer features a display of cars and an opportunity for visitors to vote for their favorite. Browse the lineup and take part in choosing the standout of the show.

South 6th Street

SEP6

Reiki Circle

Reiki Circle welcomes energy practitioners, students, and anyone curious about energy healing to gather in a friendly group setting. Hosted at The Space, this event is donation based. All experience levels are welcome.

The Space

SEP8

Performing Arts Center of Rapid City

Songs of Hope Tour with The Collingsworth Family - Rapid City, SD

Experience The Collingsworth Family’s newest concert, Songs of Hope, featuring soaring harmonies, meaningful moments of worship, and reimagined versions of their favorite songs. Designed to uplift and encourage, this program pairs heartfelt artistry with the group’s trademark excellence and passion. Enjoy a memorable night of music and inspiration that welcomes the whole family.

SEP9

Matthews Opera House & Arts Center

Bellman Presentation

Part of the Bellman Brown Bag series, this program features Terry Smith with a talk on the 1918 to 1919 influenza pandemic in Lead, South Dakota. The series explores the humanities by delving into ideas along with history, literature, art, and culture, inviting guest speakers to share their perspectives. Launched in the 1990s by Dr. Stewart Bellman, a longtime English professor at Black Hills State University in Spearfish, the program took shape at the Matthews Opera House. Dr. Bellman retired from BHSU and passed away in 2002. Attendees are welcome to bring lunch, if desired, and settle in for a session of learning and entertainment that connects with everyday life.

SEP10

Ask a Scientist with Julia Delgaudio

Connect with SURF research scientist Julia Delgaudio for a friendly Q&A about the science taking place a mile below ground at the Sanford Underground Research Facility. Bring your questions on neutrinos, dark matter, and extremophiles, and learn how researchers explore the mysteries of the universe from deep underground. The conversation will be held at the Sanford Lab Homestake Visitor Center.

SEP10

Career

Set on the Big Hill Trails near Spearfish, the inaugural Black Hills Backyard Ultra challenges participants with a 4.167 mile loop that must be completed at the top of every hour. The effort continues lap after lap until a runner times out on a loop or chooses to stop. No late starts are permitted, and each new hour sends everyone back onto the course together. Between laps, runners can rest in their chairs, though the short walk from the seat back to the start line is often the most daunting step. This format rewards steady pacing, grit, and smart recovery as the clock resets again and again.

Big Hill Trailhead

SEP12

CENTRAL STATES FAIRGROUND, RAPID CITY, SOUTH DAKOTA

SEP17

Open to everyone, this event offers opportunities for buying, selling, and trading.

Spearfish Senior Center

SEP19

Archery for Beginners Youth Program

Deadwood History, Inc. presents a beginner archery program for youth in grades 1 through 6. Hosted at the Days of '76 Museum, this introductory session focuses on the fundamentals in a safe and encouraging environment. Participants get familiar with the equipment, practice proper stance and form, cover key safety guidelines, and build basic shooting skills through guided, hands-on activities. There is no cost to participate, and a reservation is needed because space is limited. For reservations, contact Education Director Tera Richards at 605-578-1657.

SEP20

Hampton Inn Deadwood at Tin Lizzie Gaming Resort

Gaming Getaway to Deadwood, SD

Travel to Deadwood with round trip motorcoach transportation provided by Hart Travel. The itinerary features two open days to explore Historic Deadwood and three nights of accommodations that include breakfast each morning plus $10 in free play. Your stay is centered at Tin Lizzie Gaming Resort, with guest rooms at the recently renovated Hampton Inn. The resort is on the lower stretch of Historic Main Street and is surrounded by shops, dining choices, and additional casinos within easy walking distance. Pickup points are available in Parkers Prairie, Alexandria, and Fergus Falls. Per person rates are $390 for quad occupancy, $445 for triple, $545 for double, and $850 for single. For details or to request a brochure, call 877-250-8857 or 218-338-4278 or email jillharttravel@gmail.com.

SEP23

Outdoor Recreation

STURGIS BRONCO RALLY #3 2026

Five days of driving-focused rally events unfold throughout the Black Hills. The schedule spreads activities across the region for a road-centered experience.

BUFFALO CHIP

SEP25

Hot Springs Makers Market

CREATIVE'S UFO RETREAT- Quilters, Scrappers, Knitters, Artists

Settle into a weekend focused on creativity, community, and calm at Hot Springs Makers Market. Designed for quilters, scrapbookers, knitters, and artists, the retreat welcomes every skill level. Participants bring their own crafting supplies and unfinished projects, while meals and a comfortable setting are provided. Each person receives a dedicated, 24-hour work table with a chair in a well lit event space, along with access to an ironing and cutting station. The package includes a two night stay at Springs Inn & Cafe with double occupancy, six meals plus snacks and select drinks, a welcome bag of goodies, and a commemorative T-shirt. Friendship and laughter are part of the experience. Pricing details will be announced soon.

SEP26

Ford Drive 4 UR Community | United Way of the Black Hills

Take a test drive to benefit United Way of the Black Hills during a community day at White’s Canyon Ford in Spearfish. For every qualifying drive, Ford contributes $30, with a goal of 200 drives to raise up to $6,000 for local programs. There is no purchase required and no sales pitch. The gathering features family activities, food and refreshments, giveaways, and opportunities to connect with community partners. Drivers must be 18 or older with a valid driver’s license and automobile insurance. Only one donation counts per person and per household, and the total is capped at 200 test drives. Activities may conclude early if the fundraising maximum is reached before the planned end time. A pre-registration option will be shared closer to the event.

SEP26

Black Hills Card Show

The Black Hills Card Show returns with a refreshed setting at The Monument: Barnett Fieldhouse in Rapid City. This two-day gathering brings together collectors, dealers, and enthusiasts for a vibrant mix of cards and collectibles. Attendees can browse, buy, sell, and trade, enjoying the familiar atmosphere in a new location. Vendor tables and admission tickets will be available for purchase.

City of Rapid City

SEP26

Meadowbrook Golf Course, Rapid City

South Dakota American Legion Golf Tournament

The South Dakota American Legion Golf Tournament is officially confirmed. Registration is open, but capacity is limited, so early sign-ups are recommended.

SEP27

Theresa Caputo LIVE: The Experience

Theresa Caputo, known around the world as the Long Island Medium, takes the stage to share personal stories, candid humor, and an inside look at her gift of connecting with people who have passed. The television personality and best-selling author offers heartfelt messages meant to comfort, assuring audiences that departed loved ones are still with them in a different way. With more than two decades as a widely recognized medium, Theresa Caputo Live: The Experience presents an intimate, healing-focused event filled with connection and conversation.

SEP28

Ask A Scientist with Dr. Frank Strieder

Explore how stars forge the elements, why scientists construct experiments deep underground, and what occurs during stellar explosions in a live Q&A with Dr. Frank Strieder at the Sanford Lab Homestake Visitor Center. Dr. Strieder serves as an associate professor of physics at South Dakota Mines and is the principal investigator for the CASPAR experiment at the Sanford Underground Research Facility. With more than 30 years working in underground laboratories around the world, he examines the nuclear reactions that power stars and shape the chemical elements throughout the universe. The conversation invites questions and offers a look at research taking place far below the Black Hills.

SEP30

Lead Library September Book Club

This month's book club centers on Jess Walter's novel Beautiful Ruins. Conversation will focus on the book.

Lead Public Library

OCT2

Tracy Lawrence- No Alibis Tour with Josh Ward & Caiden Wallace

Country star Tracy Lawrence hits the stage with the No Alibis Tour, a showcase of a career that counts 13 million albums sold and 18 No. 1 singles. As a CMA and ACM award winner, he offers a set that mixes longtime favorites with new songs, including selections from his Out Here In It EP. One of country music’s most enduring performers steps into the spotlight for a live show.

OCT2

Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest comes to the Wild West in Deadwood with a lively mix of festivities. Highlights include a new German car show, a poker run with prizes, complimentary food, and plenty of dancing. Families can catch the Wiener Dog Races and take part in the Beer Barrel Games. The celebration takes place at Main Street Deadwood Sd, and the detailed schedule will be announced. Support comes in part from the Deadwood Chamber, Budweiser, MIDCO, and KEVN Black Hills Fox TV.

Bring your questions about neutrinos, dark matter, and extremophiles to a Q&A with Markus Horn, a senior research scientist. Learn about experiments taking place about a mile below ground at the Sanford Underground Research Facility. Through questions and answers, participants will delve into the science underway at the nation’s deepest underground laboratory. The event takes place at the Sanford Lab Homestake Visitor Center.

OCT10

Primer 55 in Rapid City

Primer 55 performs at 707 Nightlife with a lineup that also features aBlock, Kissing Candice, and Wicked Six. The event welcomes all ages, and advance tickets are priced at $20.

707 Nightlife

OCT10

Historic Homestake Opera House

SUNNY SWEENEY - LEAD, SD

This event features live music from Sunny Sweeney at the Historic Homestake Opera House in Lead, SD.

OCT11

Robert Plant with Saving Grace and Suzi Dian

Robert Plant performs with Saving Grace and Suzi Dian at The Monument Theatre as part of the Up the Sharp End US tour, celebrating their recent album, Saving Grace. Following two sold-out US runs, the tour continues through the Midwest and the West, with stops that include Saint Louis, Santa Fe, San Francisco, Minneapolis, and Chicago.

OCT15

An upbeat dueling pianos showcase anchors a signature fundraiser hosted by the Northern Hills CASA Board of Directors in support of children who have experienced abuse and neglect. This year also marks 40 years of advocacy and service across the Northern Hills and the 4th Judicial Circuit. Expect lively piano battles, good food and drinks, dancing, a silent auction, and a welcoming sense of community. Proceeds help Northern Hills CASA sustain trained volunteer advocates who speak up for children in foster care, giving them a strong voice in court and in life.

OCT25

Civic

Boots on the Ground

For more than thirty years, this community tradition has focused on treating veterans, active service members, and their families with dignity while providing everyday essentials. VFW Post 1273 has worked since the 1990s to help ensure access to basic needs. Guests are paired with a personal shopper who helps them find what suits their situation and fits well, rather than receiving a random assortment. Available goods include clothing for men, women, and children, cold weather gear, coats and jackets, boots and shoes, undergarments, hygiene supplies, and more. Large shopping bags often run out quickly, but large trash bags will be available to help carry items home. A hot, hearty meal is served so no one leaves hungry. Everything is free, with no cost, no strings, and no judgment. The event prioritizes veterans, service members, and their families first, then any remaining items are opened to the general public near the end. The goal is to offer respect, practical support, and a reminder that those who served, and the families who stand with them, are not forgotten.

VFW Post 1273

OCT28

Lead Library October Book Club

Focused on Bram Stoker's Dracula, this book club gathering features a group discussion of the novel. Conversation centers on readers' thoughts, questions, and takeaways from their reading.

Lead Public Library

OCT30