Mount Rushmore Fireworks

What is the difference between the Fireworks and the nightly Lighting Ceremony?

The Mount Rushmore Memorial carries out nightly Lighting Ceremony display in the evenings of the summer. This is NOT a fireworks display. 
The lighting ceremony operates from May – September at dusk in the Memorial’s outdoor amphitheater. It begins with a ranger led presentation and a short film entitled Freedom: America’s Lasting Legacy. After the 20 minute presentation, the illumination of the monument begins with singing of the National Anthem and a a heartfelt tribute to military personnel and veterans who are invited on stage to participate in a flag ceremony. 

See our TWILIGHT MOUNT RUSHMORE TOUR for a guide led experience to the Mount Rushmore Lighting Ceremony. 

Where and when is the fireworks display?

• The fireworks celebration is planned for Friday, July 3rd, 2026.

• Precise times and details are still being confirmed and will be announced publicly in Spring. See the National Park website for most up to date information. 

Do I need a ticket to attend?

Yes — public access on July 3rd (if the fireworks occur) requires a lottery-based ticket issued through the federal recreation system.

• Ticket applications are usually hosted on Recreation.gov.

• Exact registration dates and ticket allocations have not yet been released for 2026.

• No tour company in the area will be given tickets to the display. These will need to be acquired by the visitors independently. 

Can I just drive up and watch?

No — access is restricted:

• The main road to the memorial (Highway 244) will likely be closed for most of the day on July 3rd.

• You cannot just drive up and park for the fireworks without a lottery ticket.

Is there a fireworks show on July 4th?

No pyrotechnics are planned on July 4th itself at Mount Rushmore. After the fireworks on July 3rd, the memorial will return to normal summer operations on July 4th. 
The monument has noted a special schedule for July 4 will take place, however no details are yet to be released (as of time of writing,  March 2026). 

What about road closures and access?

Because of security, crowd control, and access logistics:

• Mount Rushmore and the main access road are usually closed all day on July 3rd for the fireworks event.

• Reopening for non-ticketed visitors typically resumes the next day once the event is over.

• July 4 will be exceedingly busy at the memorial and access will not be easy. 

Are fireworks guaranteed every year?

No — fireworks at Mount Rushmore are not guaranteed annually. Their approval depends on federal permitting, environmental conditions, fire safety factors, and logistical planning.

Can I watch the fireworks from nearby towns or tours?

Because of road closures and restricted access on the day of the event, many visitors choose to:

• Watch from neighboring towns or vantage points outside the restricted memorial area.

• Attend local community fireworks shows in nearby communities if available (e.g., town displays around Rapid City or other Black Hills towns).

Where can I get official updates?

The most accurate and up-to-date information — including lottery entry dates and full event logistics — will be posted at Recreation.gov and through official announcements from the National Park Service as they become available.h