Mount Rushmore America 250 Fireworks Celebration
Fireworks are returning to Mount Rushmore National Memorial in 2026! To celebrate America’s 250th birthday, the National Park Service is partnering with the State of South Dakota for a fantastic fireworks display at Mount Rushmore on Friday, July 3, 2026, an official Freedom 250 event. Fireworks at Mount Rushmore are not an annual occurrence, which makes this year’s event extra special. This patriotic occasion will celebrate the enduring spirit and legacy of our nation at one of America’s most recognized national landmarks.
Visit the National Parks page for more info
Ticket Information & Event Details
Tickets, issued through a lottery system, will be required to attend the July 3 event and fireworks at Mount Rushmore. The ticket lottery ended on April 12. All tickets are non-transferable.
The park will close to the general public on the evening of July 2nd and remained closed on July 3rd. Only lottery ticket winners will be allowed to access the park on July 3rd.
More information about the event, including FAQs, can be found on the National Park Service website.
Even if you can’t attend the fireworks event, Mount Rushmore will be open to all visitors on July 4 for its annual Independence Day celebration, featuring historical reenactments, patriotic performances and special programming throughout the day.
You can also watch the fireworks broadcast live at Main Street Square in Rapid City as part of their Real America Birthday Bash.