Your guide to finding the best events going on in South Dakota. Explore annual festivals, fun fairs, cultural celebrations, quirky favorites and more.
Walk in the footsteps of historic Old West legends in the 1870s gold rush town of Deadwood. This iconic South Dakota town is a mecca of history and entertainment.
South Dakota is chock-full of history, art, culture and a whole lot of outdoor fun. Celebrate your passions and find new ones on a vacation you’ll always remember.
Hike the Badlands or ride ATVs through the Black Hills. Learn about Native American history at local museums or discover fossil beds at our archaeological sites. Catch a flick at one of South Dakota’s six operating drive-in movie theaters or discover our diverse fine arts scene. Visit renowned attractions like Mount Rushmore National Memorial or traverse the seventh-longest cave in the world at Wind Cave National Park. There’s a lot to explore in South Dakota, and these are just some ideas to help you find your next adventure.
Find places to go and trip-planning tips, as well as upcoming events, above. Below, we have you covered with information from national parks and entertainment options to shopping and other trip recommendations you’ll love.
Experience the magic as you journey from Hill City to the North Pole where Santa will be waiting to board the train. Each child will get the chance to meet Santa. All Holiday Express passengers receive hot chocolate, a sugar cookie and candy cane. The 1880 Train depot and train will be festooned with holiday cheer. This holiday ride is perfect for the whole family and lasts one hour. In 2025, varying departures are available November 26, 28 and 29, and December 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 23, 24, 27 and 28. Admission: Ticket prices vary based on date and time. See our website for details, including information about the Holiday Express First Class (offered December 13-24) and the Winter Express (offered December 27-28).
Experience the magic and a spiked hot cocoa as you take a one-hour journey from Hill City to the North Pole (and back). Each passenger receives assigned seating in an adults-only car, spiked hot chocolate, and a keepsake mug. This special trip departs Hill City at 5:15 p.m. on November 28-29 and December 6, 13, 14, 20, 21, 23, 27 and 28. See our website for admission and other details. (Spiked! is for those 21 and older, only.)
Celebrate Oktoberfest on board the 1880 Train. On Saturday, September 27, the 1880 Train will hold its annual Oktoberfest Express. Prior to departure, enjoy snacks, beer and yard games 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. On board, passengers enjoy authentic seasonal beer along with traditional German foods. The train departs from the Hill City station at 2:30 p.m. and the round-trip ride takes about two hours. See website for special event rates information (must be 21 years of age or older).
Experience an old west shootout aboard the 1880 Train this summer. Dates for 2025 are June 8, 15, 22 and 29; July 6, 13, 20 and 27; and August 17 and 31. The shootout begins at the Hill City station, 5 p.m. round trip departure. A few bad guys board the train and hide their treasure. The train is stopped by cowboys and “held up” halfway between Hill City and Keystone. It's a good thing the sheriff is in town! Take the 5 p.m. round trip Hill City to Keystone departure to experience the shootout. See our website for ticket prices and to purchase tickets.
Experience an old west shootout aboard the 1880 Train this summer. Dates for 2025 are June 8, 15, 22 and 29; July 6, 13, 20 and 27; and August 17 and 31. The shootout begins at the Hill City station, 5 p.m. round trip departure. A few bad guys board the train and hide their treasure. The train is stopped by cowboys and “held up” halfway between Hill City and Keystone. It's a good thing the sheriff is in town! Take the 5 p.m. round trip Hill City to Keystone departure to experience the shootout. See our website for ticket prices and to purchase tickets.
Experience an old west shootout aboard the 1880 Train this summer. Dates for 2025 are June 8, 15, 22 and 29; July 6, 13, 20 and 27; and August 17 and 31. The shootout begins at the Hill City station, 5 p.m. round trip departure. A few bad guys board the train and hide their treasure. The train is stopped by cowboys and “held up” halfway between Hill City and Keystone. It's a good thing the sheriff is in town! Take the 5 p.m. round trip Hill City to Keystone departure to experience the shootout. See our website for ticket prices and to purchase tickets.
