8/10/2026
PIERRE, S.D. – The Freedom 250 at Mount Rushmore celebration generated millions of dollars in economic activity while showcasing the state to audiences around the world.
A post-event analysis done by research firm Tourism Economics found the event generated an estimated $2.35 million in total economic impact, including nearly $1.5 million in direct visitor spending, while supporting area businesses, hotels, and local tax revenue.
More than 4,000 attendees attended the event, with 87.7% traveling from overnight destinations and representing more than 40 states.
The event's significance extended well beyond those attending in person and those that left their tax dollars in local communities. It also was viewed by millions across the world.
Broadcast and digital media coverage reached an estimated 53.7 billion audience impressions, generating an estimated $50.7 million in publicity value. Online interest also surged, with Travel South Dakota's website recording 146,535 sessions during the event period—a 66% increase over the previous week—and the livestream being viewed more than 107,000 times.
“The Freedom 250 at Mount Rushmore event demonstrated what happens when South Dakota has the opportunity to showcase one of America's most iconic landmarks on an international stage,” said James Hagen, Secretary of the South Dakota Department of Tourism. “The economic benefits to our communities, combined with the extraordinary global exposure for South Dakota, will continue to pay dividends well into the future.”
The Tourism Economics analysis also found the event immediately generated:
- $2.35 million in total economic impact.
- $1.49 million in direct visitor spending.
- More than 4,100 hotel room nights.
- More than $1 million in lodging revenue.
- Approximately $162,000 in combined state and local tax revenue.
The celebration also produced one of the strongest tourism weekends in recent Rapid City history. During the event, hotel occupancy increased 5.5% year-over-year, and Friday, July 3 recorded the highest single-day hotel revenue year-to-date as well as the top single day revenue-per-available room in the last two years.
The event was made possible through a partnership between the State of South Dakota, the U.S. Department of the Interior, the National Park Service and numerous federal, state and local partners. Following a five-year absence, the return of fireworks to Mount Rushmore National Memorial served as a centerpiece of the nation's 250th anniversary celebration.
The State of South Dakota invested $2.8 million in planning and producing the Freedom 250 at Mount Rushmore celebration. This generated a return on investment that has already paid tremendous dividends and will continue to do so for years to come, thanks to the billions of earned media impressions. The costs include the pyrotechnics and lighting, media production, shuttle bus contracts, and cost recovery payments to the National Park Service.
“This event generated an estimated $2.35 million in direct economic impact while delivering more than 53 billion media impressions globally, introducing South Dakota to new and familiar audiences,” Hagen said. “It's an investment that strengthened our tourism economy while reinforcing South Dakota's place as one of America's most iconic destinations.”
The South Dakota Department of Tourism is comprised of Travel South Dakota and the South Dakota Arts Council. The Department is led by Secretary James D. Hagen.
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Media Notes: Economic impact numbers are reported from Tourism Economic, an Oxford Economics Company.
CONTACT
Katlyn Svendsen, Global Public Relations & Content Services Senior Director
Travel South Dakota
Email: [email protected]