Once again, the weather cools off and the leaves turn as we transition from the summer into fall—which means it's time for festivals, pumpkins, buffalo roundups, classic hot rods and more! Dig out your fuzziest sweaters from your closet and find spectacular fall events this September.
Looking for more fall events? Visit our Fall Events Page to see what's coming up in the Black Hills and Badlands.
Thursday, September 26, 2024 (All day) to Saturday, September 28, 2024 (All day)
Experience the iconic Buffalo Roundup at Custer State Park's annual event. Held each September, visitors can witness the park's herd of approximately 1,500 bison being corralled by cowboys and cowgirls on horseback.
Events at the Beginning of September
Wednesday, September 6, 2023
This special day commemorates the dual anniversaries of the 1877 death of Crazy Horse and the 1908 birth of sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski.
The public is encouraged to visit Crazy Horse Memorial on each Special Day for a day and night of activities.
Saturday, September 7, 2024
Enjoy spectacular Black HIlls fall colors at the Hill City Quilt & Fiber Arts Show.
Over 300 quilts and fiber arts items will be on display in the school gym and along Main Street in Hill City.
Friday, September 6, 2024
View a hot air balloon launch from the Stratobowl, located near Rapid City.
Spectators can view the launch from the Stratobowl Rim Trail. It's a short trail walk, up to 1 mile, for the best viewing.
Car Shows
Studebakers, bikes and hot rods will be shined up and lined up in September for visitors and gearheads to admire. Food, cars, music and a community of people to share it with—stop by and see it all!
Tuesday, August 27, 2024 to Sunday, September 1, 2024
Join a week-long Mustang Rally packed with racing, cruises, car shows, and fun events!
It's not just a rally, it's a destination. Take your Mustang to Sturgis, South Dakota for your next adventure:
Sunday, September 3, 2023
STUDEBAKER CAR SHOW
downtown Custer
Saturday, September 9, 2023
Join us for the Rush No More Car/Bike Show and Shine September 9th.
Marathons, Races & More
As we move into the fall season, the weather cools just enough to get out and enjoy the colorful scenery changes. For many runners, bicyclists, and outdoor enthusiasts, it signals race season. Whether you’re in it for glory, beer, fun, or to bask in nature’s splendor, there are several marathons, races, and community get-togethers to keep you moving this September.
Sunday, September 3, 2023
As the premier mountain bike race of the Black Hills, the Dakota Five-O continues to entice riders from across the country. From the pristine, hand-built single-track that graces much of the course, to the PBR and bacon station and the high spirited after party, riders are impressed with this 50
Friday, September 20, 2024 to Sunday, September 22, 2024
The Mickelson Summer Trek is an annual three-day bicycle ride covering almost the entire trail of South Dakota's George S. Mickelson Trail. This event presents riders an opportunity to travel the same path of historic figures such as Wild Bill Hickok, General George A.
Saturday, September 28, 2024 to Sunday, September 29, 2024
Thanks to some of the most persistent roadside billboards advertising “free ice water” among other things, most people have heard of Wall Drug located in the town of Wall, SD. And just outside of the town lies Badlands National Park, a dramatic and ancient display of sandstone formations.
Events Later in September
Friday, September 13, 2024 to Saturday, September 14, 2024
The Jam’s always been a premiere outdoor music festival in the region, and this year it will be on display for all at no charge.
Thursday, September 19, 2024 to Saturday, September 21, 2024
2024 Schedule of Plein Air Events
Friday, May 17, 2024 to Saturday, May 18, 2024
Craft beer lovers will enjoy Deadwood’s finest at this festival.
Friday, September 22, 2023
Fall in love with Lead at this "unbe-leaf-able" event!
Historic Tours
Saturday, September 23, 2023
Come experience the national parks! On five days in 2023, all National Park Service sites that charge an entrance fee will offer free admission to everyone. Mark your calendar for these entrance fee–free dates in 2023:
January 16 – Martin Luther King Jr Day
Friday, October 4, 2024 to Saturday, October 5, 2024
Join us in Deadwood as we celebrate Oktoberfest in the Wild West! Enjoy live German music at the PolkaFest, a poker run with prizes, free food, and dancing. Bring the whole family and join us for the now famous “Wiener Dog Races” and Beer Barrel Games!
There’s something for everyone, so get your autumnal fix in the Black Hills and Badlands this September!
For a full line up of festivals and events in the Black Hills and Badlands, visit our Events Calendar.
Autumn is Here with the Best September Events in the Black Hills and Badlands
Autumn is Here with the Best September Events in the Black Hills and Badlands
Autumn is Here with the Best September Events in the Black Hills and Badlands
