– By #Powder House Lodge
As the off-season settles in at Powder House Lodge, there’s still plenty to see and do in the Black Hills. Two exciting upcoming events will bring the region to life this winter: the Black Hills Stock Show & Rodeo in Rapid City and the Mardi Gras Celebration in Deadwood. If you're eager to immerse yourself in Cowboy culture or enjoy a lively Mardi Gras party in the Wild West, these events are sure to be unforgettable!
- Black Hills Stock Show & Rodeo
When: January 31 – February 8, 2025
Where: Central States Fairgrounds and The Monument, Rapid City, SD
Rapid City will transform into a hub of western action during the Black Hills Stock Show & Rodeo, from January 31 to February 8, 2025. Established in 1959, this event is the second-largest in South Dakota, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors each year for an immersive experience.
What to Expect:
• Livestock and Rodeo Competitions: Watch thrilling events like ranch rodeos, cattle shows, and horse events. With 120 competitions across livestock, horses, and rodeo, there’s plenty to see and do. Don’t miss the exciting sheepdog trials, one of the show’s signature events.
• Vibrant Vendor Scene: With more than 400 vendors offering everything from cowboy hats to ranching gear, you’ll find unique western-themed items and local treasures to take home.
• Live Music and Western Art: Enjoy local bands and explore the Western art show, featuring works that capture the spirit of the American West. The Black Hills Stock Show & Rodeo is fun for all ages.
• Food, Drinks, and Fun for Everyone: The event also features food vendors, a beer festival, and plenty of opportunities to soak up the lively atmosphere. Tickets can be purchased online or at the gate, and the event takes place at the Central States Fairgrounds and The Monument in Rapid City.
This exciting event celebrates the agricultural and ranching heritage of South Dakota and is a must-see for anyone looking to experience the Wild West firsthand!
- Mardi Gras in Deadwood
When: February 28 – March 1, 2025
Where: Historic Deadwood, SD
For those looking for a festive and fun winter escape, Mardi Gras in Deadwood is the place to be. Known as the best Mardi Gras party north of the Bayou, this annual celebration fills the historic town of Deadwood with lively parades, themed cocktails, costume contests, and more. Whether you’re a Mardi Gras regular or a first-time visitor, Deadwood’s Mardi Gras weekend promises a unique experience.
What to Expect:
• Cocktail Crawl (Friday & Saturday): Deadwood’s bars and restaurants will offer Cajun-themed cocktail specials throughout the weekend. Enjoy various signature drinks while roaming the historic streets of Deadwood—just make sure you’re 21+!
• Free Masquerade Ball (Friday, 7-10 p.m.): Head to the Deadwood Mountain Grand Event Center for a free masquerade ball featuring aerialists, fire performers, stilt walkers, tarot card readers, a live DJ, and a charcuterie table. The event will also include a “Best Dressed” contest with prizes of $250 Gold Bucks for first place, along with other exciting giveaways.
• Cajun Cookoff (Saturday, 2-4 p.m.): Sample some of the best Cajun dishes created by local chefs. The cookoff will be a fun way to taste the flavors of New Orleans while supporting local charities through voting with your donation. It’s free to sample the dishes, though some locations may require you to be 21+.
• Parade (Saturday, 7 p.m.): The highlight of Deadwood’s Mardi Gras weekend is the colorful parade that marches down Main Street on Saturday night. Feel free to enter a float in the parade (it’s free to participate!) and enjoy the festive atmosphere as the town celebrates in style.
• Special Open Container Zones: For those who enjoy a bit of freedom while enjoying their favorite drinks, Deadwood will have special open container zones where you can stroll from bar to bar and take in the festivities—beer and wine only.
If you’re in it for the cocktails, costumes, or the parade, Mardi Gras in Deadwood offers a memorable way to welcome the spring season and shake off the winter blues.
Reserve Your Future Stay at Powder House Lodge
Even though it’s the off-season at Powder House Lodge, you can still make reservations during this time. Contact us at Powder House Lodge for more information.
Get Ready for Winter Fun in the Black Hills!
It doesn’t matter if you’re heading to Rapid City for the Black Hills Stock Show & Rodeo or to Deadwood for Mardi Gras, the Black Hills offers the perfect winter getaway. Don’t let winter keep you down—make your way to the Black Hills and join in the fun this season!
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