Spend the Day With Dad

Summer is when the Black Hills come alive with music, festivals, and events every day of the week. Father’s Day is no exception, and you’ll find there are endless ways to celebrate the dad in your life all weekend.

For the gearhead dad, head to Belle Fourche for a show and shine at MJ’s Market followed by the annual Center of the Nation All Car Rally on June 19. Cars line up around 10 a.m., with judging and prizes for the best in show. Later on, watch as cars line up and head for their cruise in the hills at 6 p.m. and return for a drive-in movie at 8:30 p.m.

If your dad likes art, head over to Hill City’s annual Sculpture in the Hills Art Show & Sale. Nestled in between two of the largest sculptures in the world — Crazy Horse and Mount Rushmore — Hill City is the perfect place to celebrate the art of sculpture. See the entries in this year’s competition, meet the artists, and enjoy downtown! The show runs June 19–20 with the event tent setup next to Alpine Inn.

Is dad a bibliophile? Head up to Deadwood for the Wild Deadwood Reads book festival. The event starts on June 17 and runs through Saturday, with book signings and readings from local and regional authors, as well as informative presentations and speakers.

For any dad who grew up in the late 90s, don’t miss Golden Hour Live at Main Street Square on June 19. Multi-platinum artists Eve 6 take the stage at 6 p.m., with a catalog full of chart-topping hits that will surely take your dad straight back to his high school days. The best part? The concert is free, so you don’t have to worry about snagging tickets.

If you want to get the adrenaline pumping and make some fun memories for Father’s Day, Rush Mountain in Keystone is the perfect place to go. They have a mountain coaster, zipline ride, and a 7D interactive shooting game in addition to gemstone mining and a tour of the original Rushmore Cave. They run special discounts for Father’s Day weekend, so you can make glorious memories together as a family for less than normal admission.

The Black Hills are beautiful year round, but especially so in the summer. If you want to get out in the hills for Father’s Day, South Dakota state parks offer free entrance and fishing on June 20 in honor of the holiday. Watch for buffalo and bighorn sheep on the Wildlife Loop in Custer State Park, enjoy fishing at Angostura Recreation Area, or hike to the top of Bear Butte State Park.

There are plenty of ways to celebrate dad right here in town, as well. Whether your dad wants to go on an adventure, find a new favorite lunch spot, or pick up that piece of hunting gear he has his eye on. Check out our list of local businesses that offer great military discounts on dining, shopping, entertainment, and more!

Fathers work hard all year, whether they’re answering our nation’s call or supporting a spouse who serves. We hope this year you get to celebrate Black Hills style. Happy Father’s Day!