Independence Day Events at Mount Rushmore
July 2–4, 2026
Mount Rushmore National Memorial will host three days of special events to commemorate Independence Day and the 250th anniversary of the United States.
Programming will take place July 2–4, 2026, featuring military concerts, interpretive programs, cultural demonstrations, and a spectacular fireworks celebration on July 3.
July 3 Independence Day Celebration
On July 3, the Memorial will host a large-scale celebration in partnership with the State of South Dakota, culminating in a fireworks display over Mount Rushmore.
The evening’s events will include patriotic tributes, educational programs, and musical entertainment honoring the 250th anniversary of the birth of the United States.
Tickets Required
Because of the size of the event, attendance on July 3 will be limited to ticketed participants.
Tickets will be distributed through a lottery on Recreation.gov.
Lottery Window
- April 8 (8 AM MT) – April 12 (9:59 PM MT)
Lottery Fee
- $1 non-refundable application fee
Ticket Details
- Applicants may request up to four tickets
- One entry per applicant
- Tickets available to U.S. residents only
- Lottery results announced April 14
Each selected lottery entry will include tickets for up to four people and either:
- Parking garage access at Mount Rushmore, or
- Shuttle transportation from Rapid City
Ticket holders may begin entering the park at 1 PM, with event programming scheduled to run approximately 4 PM – 10 PM.
Seating within the memorial will be first-come, first-served.
July 2 Events
No reservations required.
- Memorial grounds open at 5 AM
- Ranger programs and interpretive activities throughout the day
- Patriotic concert by the U.S. Air Force Academy Band
July 4 Events
No reservations required.
- Memorial grounds open at 5 AM
- Special programming begins at 9 AM
- Presidential reenactors
- Indigenous cultural demonstrations
- U.S. Air Force Academy Band performance at 7 PM
If you are unable to obtain a ticket for the July 3 event, additional watch parties, live streaming, and broadcast viewing opportunities will be announced by Travel South Dakota.
All times listed are Mountain Time. Event details are subject to change.
For the most up to date information, click here.