MITCHELL, SD (Mitchell Now) — Larry Rhoden has announced a ticket lottery for the return of Independence Day fireworks at Mount Rushmore, part of the nation’s 250th birthday celebration.
The fireworks event is scheduled for July 3, 2026, and will be held in partnership with the U.S. Department of the Interior and the National Park Service. Tickets are required and will be distributed through a public lottery system.
“Mount Rushmore is a powerful symbol of freedom and American spirit,” Rhoden said in a statement, adding that South Dakota is proud to welcome visitors from across the country.
The lottery runs from April 8 at 8 a.m. MT through April 12 at 9:59 p.m. MT. There is a $1 non-refundable application fee. Applicants may request up to four tickets, along with a parking pass or shuttle option.
Entries can be submitted online through Recreation.gov here:
South Dakota’s Mount Rushmore Fireworks Celebration Lottery, Mount Rushmore National Memorial – Recreation.gov
Lottery results will be announced April 14, with additional instructions provided to those selected.
Officials said Mount Rushmore will reopen to all visitors on July 4 with regular hours and its annual Independence Day programming.
More information, including visitor guidelines and event details, is available through the National Park Service.