Fireworks are returning to Mount Rushmore National Memorial in 2026! As part of the America 250 signature celebration, the National Park Service, in partnership with the State of South Dakota, is planning a fireworks display at Mount Rushmore on Friday, July 3, 2026. Fireworks at Mount Rushmore are not an annual occurance, which makes this year's event extra special. This patriotic occasion will celebrate the enduring spirit and legacy of our nation at one of America’s most recognized national landmarks.
Ticket Information & Event Details
Tickets, issued through a lottery system, will be required to attend the July 3 event and fireworks at Mount Rushmore. The ticket lottery will take place on Recreation.gov from April 8 at 8 a.m. MT through April 12 at 9:59 p.m. MT. There is a $1 non-refundable lottery application fee. Each applicant can apply for up to four tickets and a parking space or shuttle service. Applicants will receive lottery results on April 14. If successful, the notice will include additional details and instructions. All tickets are non-transferable.
The park will close to the general public on the evening of July 2nd and remained closed on July 3rd. Only lottery ticket winners will be allowed to access the park on July 3rd.
More information about the event, including FAQs, can be found on the National Park Service website.
Even if you can’t attend the fireworks event, Mount Rushmore will be open to all visitors on July 4 for its annual Independence Day celebration, featuring historical reenactments, patriotic performances and special programming throughout the day.
More Fourth of July Fun in the Black Hills
Whether you’re attending the Mount Rushmore Fireworks or looking for other ways to celebrate, America's birthday party is happening in South Dakota, and everyone's invited. From Old West shootouts, cook-offs, car shows and ice cream socials to concerts, rodeos, arts and crafts vendors and more, you'll find some of the best Fourth of July celebrations anywhere in America right here in the Black Hills and Badlands.
Discover more great fireworks displays around South Dakota, or explore our full calendar for more exciting events and festivals this summer.
Black Hills Roundup, one of the country's oldest continuously running outdoor rodeos
Spend the day spotting wildlife in Custer State Park, then catch fireworks at Custer's Fourth of July Celebration
For an unforgettable site, watch fireworks explode over the Open Cut in Lead during the Gold Camp Jubilee.
The southern Black Hills are rich with discovery, from natural hot springs and prehistoric fossil sites to the Fall River 4th of July.
Add More Black Hills Icons to Your Itinerary
Keep the adventure going and make your Fourth of July in South Dakota even more unforgettable by visiting the iconic Black Hills landmarks just minutes from Mount Rushmore, from the awe-inspiring Crazy Horse Memorial® to the underground wonders of Wind Cave National Park and Jewel Cave National Monument. Explore the interactive map below to discover more must-see attractions waiting around every bend!
Let Freedom Ring
See what other visitors discovered in South Dakota, and share yours with the hashtag #HiFromSD
Start Planning Your Trip to South Dakota
Order Your Free 2026 Vacation Guide
Find our travel guide, state map and more free resources for trip planning.
Get Travel Tips With Our e-Newsletter
Receive monthly inspiration about places to see, activities and upcoming events.
Mount Rushmore Travel Guide
Plan your visit to America's Shrine of Democracy and discover this national icon in the Black Hills.