When the crisp autumn air rolls into Rapid City, something else magical happens. The region transforms into a vibrant collection of unforgettable annual events that captivate both locals and visitors alike. Here in Rapid City, we’re not just a destination; we’re a community that thrives on rich traditions, surprising quirks, and a hearty dose of adventure.
Our fall events aren’t merely calendar fillers—they’re experiences that blend traditions with nature, creating memories steeped in joy, laughter, and a touch of the unexpected. From local festivals to celebrates of culture, there’s something for everyone to explore. So grab your coziest flannel, a sense of adventure, and maybe even a pumpkin-spiced treat as we embark on a journey through Rapid City’s best fall events.
The Stratobowl Historic Hot Air Balloon Launch
![spectators sitting on the overlook of the stratobowl watching hot air balloons take off](https://assets.simpleviewinc.com/simpleview/image/upload/c_fill,h_850,q_75,w_1200/v1/clients/rapidcitysd/Stratobowl_2023_21_large_e027bf77-4e63-4f29-be3f-2c8a8f43bed2.jpg)
Bierbörse Festival
For those who love beer and being outside, we welcome you with open arms and cold beverages to Bierborse.
Hosted in the heart of Downtown Rapid City at Main Street Square, Bierborse is a festival that allows event participants to enjoy an afternoon outside sampling beers from around the region. Spend your time talking to the breweries in the Tasting Ally or watch the boards of the beer stock exchange, where prices rise and fall based on crowd demand - making it so you can get the best deal on your drink if you act quick enough. All attendee's of Bierborse must be 21 or older.
The Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup
![cowboy chasing bison on horseback through custer state park during the roundup event](https://assets.simpleviewinc.com/simpleview/image/upload/c_fill,h_850,q_75,w_1200/v1/clients/rapidcitysd/Buffalo_Roundup_12a4dece-f622-4014-a9ac-8a92d722040c.jpg)
The Black Hills Powwow
![participants dancing on the floor of the summit arena in rapid city, sd during the black hills powwow](https://assets.simpleviewinc.com/simpleview/image/upload/c_fill,h_800,q_75,w_1200/v1/clients/rapidcitysd/BH_Powwow_Fall_Events_Content_Events_Listing_772debcb-853e-4659-b226-ac2ebb3662a0.jpg)
Celebrate a culture deeply rooted in the Black Hills at the annual Black Hills Powwow.
Taking place every year in October, this three-day event is one of the best ways to witness the beauty of Native American culture. You'll witness dancing, artwork, drum circles, and so much more all happening under one roof at The Monument. You’ll witness all the Lakota dance styles and stunning regalia while being completely captivated in the pride and community that exists at this event. It’s pretty unforgettable. Each year the Black Hills Powwow grows, attracting more skilled dancers and participants and a larger audience, it is one of largest powwow in the United States. First time attending a powwow - look into a Wacipi 101 class. Offered at the Black Hills Powwow, this class shares powwow etiquette as an attendee and insight behind different events that take place.
The Crazy Horse Volksmarch
![Fall Crazy Horse Volksmarch](https://assets.simpleviewinc.com/simpleview/image/upload/c_fill,h_850,q_75,w_1200/v1/clients/rapidcitysd/Crazy_Horse_028f0737-dcf3-4c24-b8d7-05947dae12d8.jpg)
Gaze up at the face of the largest mountain carving in progress, an experience that's only available to the public twice a year during the Volksmarch at Crazy Horse Memorial®.
Unlike the other events mentioned, the Crazy Horse Volksmarch happens twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall. This event attracts people from all over the world, and for good reason. Crazy Horse Memorial® is the largest mountain carving in progress and during the Volksmarch the public can hike up and out onto his arm - otherwise this requires booking a private tour. You can stand face to face with Crazy Horse, marvel at the details of the carving, and then take in the stunning views of the surrounding Black Hills while standing on his arm. Don't forget to explore the rest of this impressive campus after you've completed the hike!
The Great Downtown Pumpkin Festival
![People shopping local vendors during the Downtown Rapid City Pumpkin Festival](https://assets.simpleviewinc.com/simpleview/image/upload/c_fill,h_850,q_75,w_1200/v1/clients/rapidcitysd/Pumpkin_Festival_20_281_29_53fd7619-5fc5-46ec-8368-a5b61b420a17.jpg)
Greet the changing of the seasons in the most festive way possible, The Great Downtown Pumpkin Festival!
The Great Downtown Pumpkin Festival is the biggest festival that takes place in Downtown Rapid City. The event flows from Main Street Square over to Memorial Park, and like the name suggests it’s everything pumpkin. There's a giant pumpkin weigh-off, pumpkin catapults, pumpkin painting, local goods for purchase, and a whole lot more. It's a great time to find yourself in Downtown Rapid City.
Our area hosts many unique events that will make your trip to Rapid City even more memorable. These are just a few of the wonderful events that happen in the area, to see more you can head to our events calendar or sign up for our monthly travel tips newsletter!
More Good Stuff You'll Love
The Meaning Behind the Movements at the Black Hills Powwow
This blog post is based on an interview conducted by Visit Rapid City with esteemed…
- 3 minute read
7 Pro Tips For Attending The Annual Buffalo Roundup
If you’ve ever been to South Dakota, hopefully you've had the privilege…
- 5 minute read
19 Recommended Stops to Tour Rapid City, SD Like a President
Home to the largest collection of life-sized bronze president statues, called the…
- 7 minute read