We are excited about the return of the fireworks celebration at Mount Rushmore National Memorial on Friday, July 3, 2026. The State of South Dakota is partnering with the Department of the Interior and the National Park Service on this signature America 250 event.
As it was in 2020, the July 3rd event is a ticketed event. The public ticket lottery, hosted by Recreation.gov, accepted applications from April 8-12, 2026. Lottery details, application information and FAQs are available on the National Park Service website.
A few of the specifics:
- The ticket lottery opened at 8 a.m. MT on April 8.
- There was a $1 non-refundable lottery application fee.
- Each applicant was allowed to apply for up to four (4) tickets.
- Lottery results will be announced on April 14.
Only lottery ticket winners will be admitted to the park and to the event on July 3rd. Tickets are non-transferable. The park will close to the general public on the evening of July 2nd and remain closed on July 3rd.
It will be important to note to visitors: Mount Rushmore National Memorial will resume regular hours on July 4th with Independence Day programming open to all visitors.
We encourage you to reference the full press release from the National Park Service regarding the ticket lottery process.
The State of South Dakota and National Park Service are cognizant of the environment. Together, we will work with The National Park Service, fire specialists, other subject matter experts, and partner agencies to make sure the park and its resources are protected. For more information, visit the National Park Service's webpage: ParkPlanning - SUP 2026 Independence Day Holiday Fireworks Event.
Important Links
Ticket Lottery webpage: Mount Rushmore Fireworks lottery details hosted by Recreation.gov
- lottery application window: April 8-12, 2026
Ticket Lottery details and FAQs and Independence Day information (July 3 and 4): NPS.gov/MoRu
Travel South Dakota webpage: TravelSouthDakota.com/Mount-Rushmore-Fireworks
U.S. Department of Interior webpage: DOI.gov/Freedom250
Freedom 250 website: Freedom250.org
America 250 website: America250.org
South Dakota America 250 website: Americas250th.sd.gov