Rapid City, SD – Downtown Rapid City will awaken this Saturday when the celebrated Mountain West Beer Fest — billed as South Dakota’s largest beer festival — returns for its 8th annual edition running from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Rushmore Hall inside The Monument.
Organizers say the event will showcase more than 80 breweries and over 200 beers, seltzers, and non-alcoholic beverages — making it a must-attend for craft-beer aficionados, curious newcomers, and anyone looking for a fun daytime outing in the heart of the Black Hills.
Get tickets at: https://www.themonument.live/events/detail/mwbeerfest25
What’s New This Year
This year’s festival introduces some exciting new features alongside its already massive lineup of food trucks, brews, and bar-games:
- A dedicated THC/CBD drink room, offering infused beverages in a relaxed lounge environment.
- A mechanical bull, perfect for those who want to test their balance and bravery between tastings.
- Patch perfect hats! Get a custom hat made on the spot.
- A 360-degree camera, letting guests capture their festival experience in full motion.
- Classic outdoor favorites like cornhole and human foosball, plus interactive games scattered throughout the venue.
- A strong lineup of local food trucks including Loud American, Green Chili, and Good Stuffed, ready to serve everything from steak tips to gourmet sliders.
- Tattoo artist Kevin Bradt from Oak and Iron will have a pop-up booth setup.
Together, these features make Mountain West Beer Fest more than a tasting event — it’s a full-on festival experience blending craft beer, entertainment, and community.
Ticketing & Access
There are three ticket options available:
- VIP Admission – Doors open early at 12 p.m., giving guests a full extra hour of sampling along with access to the VIP Lounge and a complimentary lunch served from 12 to 2 p.m.
- General Admission – Entry begins at 1 p.m. and includes unlimited sampling until 5 p.m.
- Non-Sampling Admission – For attendees who want to enjoy the fun and food without the alcohol tastings.
There is a military discount with valid ID.
The event is 21+ only, and attendees are encouraged to enjoy responsibly.
Festival Highlights & Reasons to Go
- Tremendous variety: With 80+ breweries and 200+ drink options, this is one of the most expansive tasting events in the region.
- Lively atmosphere: The addition of games, a mechanical bull, and the Black Hills State University drumline hyping up the crowd.
- Prime location: Rushmore Hall provides easy access, plenty of space, and a central downtown setting.
- Food & fun combo: Between the food trucks, games, and photo ops, there’s no shortage of flavor or entertainment.
- VIP perks: Early access, a private lounge, and lunch make the upgrade worth it for die-hard beer lovers.
Pro Tips for Attendees
- VIP guests should arrive early for lunch and first picks of the pours.
- Review the brewery list ahead of time — with more than 200 drinks, it pays to plan your route.
- Stay hydrated and pace yourself — unlimited tastings go a long way.
- Use rideshare or arrange a sober ride home.
- Bring a small tote or backpack if you plan on snagging event merchandise or limited-edition cans.
- Don’t skip the 360-camera or games — they’re part of the experience!
The Bottom Line
The Mountain West Beer Fest continues to grow as one of the most anticipated events of the year in the Black Hills. With more breweries, new attractions, and even a THC/CBD lounge debuting for 2025, it promises to be an unforgettable afternoon of sampling, music, laughter, and community.
If you’ve ever wanted to sip, sample, socialize, and ride a mechanical bull all in the same afternoon — this is your event.
Mountain West Beer Fest
- Rushmore Hall, The Monument, Rapid City
- Saturday, November 15, 2025 | 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
- Ages 21+ | Tickets available now
Disclaimer: Mountain West Beer Fest is promoted by the HomeSlice Group, the parent company of The Rapid City Post.