CUSTER, S.D. — Organizers have announced the postponement of the Burning of the Beetle, fireworks display and torch march after consulting with the Custer Volunteer Fire Department and assessing current fire conditions.
Officials said fuel dryness remains high, and forecasted high winds on Thursday and Friday could significantly increase fire risk. Organizers also cited concern about placing additional strain on local fire resources.
While the fire related elements of the event have been delayed, organizers emphasized that the rest of the weekend’s activities will continue as planned.
An educational forum scheduled for Thursday will still take place, along with Story Time on Friday. Saturday’s Variety Show and Pub Crawl are also moving forward, as well as live music, food and drinks throughout the weekend.
Organizers encouraged the public to still attend and enjoy Saturday night’s festivities, noting the only change is the absence of the fire events.
Torch tickets will remain valid and can be used for the rescheduled Burning of the Beetle, fireworks and torch march once conditions improve. Organizers said the full experience, including the march, fireworks, fire and bug crawl, will return when snow and safer conditions arrive.
“We hope you still come down for a hot time this Saturday night, just without the fire,” organizers said. “And when we get some snow, we’re doing it all again.”
A new date for the postponed events will be announced at a later time.
