As Independence Day approaches, the Black Hills region is preparing for a spectacular array of fireworks displays and festive events. From Rapid City to Box Elder and beyond, residents and visitors can look forward to celebrating America’s 249th birthday with dazzling pyrotechnics and community gatherings.
Rapid City: A Weekend of Fireworks
Rapid City is set to host multiple fireworks shows over the holiday weekend:
- July 3:
- Fireworks at Rapid City Elks Golf Course at 9:25 p.m.
- Independence Day Party with Fireworks at Jolly Lane
- July 4:
- Official Rapid City Fireworks Show at Executive Golf Course at 9:30 p.m.
- Arrowhead Country Club Fireworks Show at dusk (members only)
- Black Hills Speedway Fireworks Show following the races
- July 5: Post 22 Baseball Firecracker Tournament Firework Display at Fitzgerald Stadium
These events offer a variety of viewing options for families and visitors.
Box Elder: Local Celebrations
Box Elder residents can enjoy fireworks displays within city limits on July 4 and 5, between 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m., as per the city’s approved resolution. Additionally, Ellsworth Airforce Base will be hosting a community celebration for military families on Friday, June 27. The event is free and promises a fun-filled time for the whole family. There will be free lunch served with Pulled pork sandwiches, Hotdogs, Baked beans, Coleslaw, Chips, and Drinks with bounce houses, games, face painting, and much more. Time slots are available for meal selections to avoid long lines. Activities will be available throughout the event, and visitors are encouraged to come early and enjoy everything the Base Picnic has to offer. Join us from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM for a day full of excitement!
Black Hills: Regional Festivities
The Black Hills region boasts a variety of Independence Day celebrations:
- Belle Fourche: Fireworks on July 2 and 3 at 10:00 p.m. following the Black Hills Roundup Rodeo.
- Custer: Fireworks at Pageant Hill on July 4 at 9:30 p.m., part of the town’s two-day celebration.
- Deadwood: Independence Day Parade and Freedom Weekend Celebration on July 4–5.
- Lead: Gold Camp Jubilee on July 3–4, featuring fireworks over the Open Cut at dusk on July 4.
- Hot Springs: Fireworks at Butler Park on July 4 at dusk.
- Piedmont: Fireworks at Piedmont Park on July 4 at dusk.
- Sturgis: Fireworks at the Fairgrounds on July 4 at dusk.
- Devils Tower, WY: Fireworks at Devils Tower KOA on July 4 at dusk.
These events offer a mix of small-town charm and grand pyrotechnic displays, perfect for families and visitors seeking a traditional Independence Day experience. Residents and visitors are reminded to adhere to local regulations regarding fireworks use. In Rapid City and Rapid Valley, fireworks may be sold from June 27 to July 5, with retail sales prohibited between midnight and 7 a.m. Sales from vehicles are not allowed. Safety officers urge caution when driving during fireworks displays, advising motorists to slow down and drive with headlights on due to reduced visibility. As you plan your Independence Day festivities, consider the impact of fireworks on pets, veterans, and individuals with sensory sensitivities.
