Winter brings a different kind of energy to the Black Hills. From high-speed snowmobile racing and Western traditions to horse-drawn sleigh rides, holiday train rides and one-of-a-kind local celebrations, there are plenty of reasons to experience the Black Hills after the snow begins to fall.
Event dates change each year, so be sure to check current schedules, conditions and ticket availability before your visit.
DEADWOOD SNOCROSS SHOWDOWN
Location: Deadwood, SD
When: January
Watch professional snowmobile racers take on jumps, tight turns and high-speed competition as national Snocross racing comes to the Days of ’76 Event Complex in Deadwood.
This popular winter weekend brings racers and spectators to the Black Hills for one of the region’s most exciting winter sporting events.
Website: https://www.deadwood.com/event/pro-snocross-races/
K9 KEG PULL
Location: Deadwood, SD
When: January
One of Deadwood’s most entertaining winter traditions, the K9 Keg Pull brings dogs of all sizes to Historic Deadwood for a race unlike any other. Dogs compete in weight classes while pulling an appropriately sized keg or container, racing to see who can cross the finish line the fastest.
It’s a fun, family-friendly winter event that's just as entertaining for spectators as it is for participants.
Website: https://www.deadwood.com/event/k-9-keg-pull/
HORSE-DRAWN SLEIGH RIDES
Andy’s Trail Rides
Location: Lead, SD
Experience a classic Black Hills winter aboard a two-horse open sleigh with Andy’s Trail Rides. Bundle up for a ride through snow-covered mountain scenery near Lead and Deer Mountain for a memorable way to experience winter in the Northern Hills.
Sleigh rides are offered when snow conditions allow, with wagon rides available when there isn't enough snow. Reservations are required, and advance booking is recommended.
Website: https://andystrailrides.com/
BLACK HILLS STOCK SHOW & RODEO
Location: Rapid City, SD
When: Late January–Early February
One of the Black Hills’ biggest winter traditions brings rodeo, livestock competitions, horse events, Western vendors, entertainment and agricultural heritage together for more than a week of events in Rapid City.
Website: https://www.blackhillsstockshow.com/
BURNING BEETLE
Location: Custer, SD
When: January
One of the Black Hills’ most unusual winter traditions, the Burning Beetle celebration features music, a torch-lit procession and the ceremonial burning of a giant wooden beetle.
The annual event began as a creative way to bring the community together while raising awareness of the mountain pine beetle’s impact on the Black Hills.
Website: https://www.custersd.com/
CHINOOK DAYS
Location: Spearfish, SD
When: January
Celebrate one of the most remarkable weather events in Black Hills history during Spearfish’s annual Chinook Days. The winter celebration commemorates the extraordinary 1943 temperature change when Spearfish experienced a dramatic rise in temperature within just minutes.
Activities vary from year to year and may include outdoor recreation, live music, community gatherings and other winter events.
Website: https://visitspearfish.com/
DEADWOOD MARDI GRAS
Location: Deadwood, SD
When: February
Historic Deadwood takes on a little New Orleans flair during its annual Mardi Gras celebration. The weekend typically includes a parade, live entertainment, Cajun-inspired food and festivities throughout downtown.
Website: https://www.deadwood.com/
LEAD WINTERFEST
Location: Lead, SD
When: February
Celebrate winter in the heart of the Northern Black Hills during Lead’s annual Winterfest. Activities vary each year, bringing together outdoor recreation, community events and seasonal fun in one of the Black Hills’ snowiest mountain communities.
Website: https://www.leadmethere.org/
1880 TRAIN HOLIDAY EXPRESS
Location: Hill City, SD
When: November–December
Climb aboard the historic 1880 Train for a festive holiday journey from Hill City. The Holiday Express transforms the classic Black Hills train experience into a Christmas tradition with holiday lights, treats and a visit from Santa.
Advance reservations are strongly recommended.
Website: https://www.1880train.com/
HOLIDAY EVENTS & CELEBRATIONS
Visiting during November or December? Communities throughout the Black Hills celebrate the season with light parades, tree lightings, holiday markets and family events.
Holidazzle Light Parade — Spearfish
A festive lighted parade through downtown Spearfish.
Christmas Nights of Lights — Rapid City
Walk through Storybook Island illuminated with holiday lights and displays.
Festival of Lights & Holiday Events — Rapid City
Downtown Rapid City celebrates the season with holiday activities, lights and special events around Main Street Square.
Holiday Celebrations at Outlaw Square — Deadwood
Seasonal events in the heart of Historic Deadwood include holiday festivities, outdoor ice skating and special winter programming.
Light Up Lead — Lead
Holiday lights and seasonal celebrations bring a festive atmosphere to downtown Lead.
PLAN YOUR WINTER VISIT
Winter events, operating schedules and experiences can change from year to year—and some outdoor events depend on snowfall and weather conditions.
Check individual event websites as your trip approaches for current dates, tickets, reservations and weather-related updates.