America 250
A South Dakota Celebration 250 Years in the Making
From its earliest Indigenous peoples to the trailblazers & storytellers shaping it today, there’s a reason South Dakota is known as the land of infinite variety. Come embrace it all in 2026 as South Dakota celebrates the 250th founding of the USA.
The state's premier event in 2026 will be the fireworks display at Mount Rushmore National Memorial on Friday, July 3. From a partnership between the State of South Dakota, the U.S. Department of the Interior and the National Park Service, this patriotic display will be one of the most talked-about events of the year. Check back in early 2026 soon for updates about how you can be part of this historic celebration!
The Mount Rushmore Fireworks is an America 250 signature event, and one of 25 great events we’re highlighting across South Dakota throughout 2026. See the list below – and note that there are countless other must-see events taking place all year long, some with decades-long traditions and others created just to help celebrate America’s birthday.
Leading South Dakota’s efforts is the America's 250th South Dakota Commission. They are planning, encouraging, developing, coordinating and promoting the observances and activities being held in South Dakota in commemoration of the 250th anniversary. For more information, be sure to visit their website: Americas250th.sd.gov.