Programs

A park ranger presenting a ranger talk along the Presidential Trail.

NPS Photo / Frances Schaetz

You do not need a reservation for any programs at Mount Rushmore, including the Evening Lighting Ceremony. A complete schedule of programs is available at the Information Center, Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center, and the event calendar.

All activities are contingent on weather conditions and may be rescheduled or cancelled on short notice.

Ranger Talks (30 minutes)

These programs begin at various locations throughout the memorial. Programs are offered each day June through September. Schedules are posted at the Information Center, Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center, and the event calendar.

Sculptor's Studio Talk (15 minutes)

Learn about the tools and techniques used in the carving of the mountain sculpture. Talks include stories from the workers, demonstrations of the tools and the artist's working model. Programs are offered frequently each day June through September. Schedules are posted at the Information Center, Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center, and the event calendar.

Evening Program (45 minutes)

Join a park ranger in the park's outdoor amphitheater for an inspirational program focusing on the presidents, patriotism and the nation's history. Beginning with a ranger talk, this program continues with the film "Freedom: America's Lasting Legacy" (captioned) and culminates with the lighting of the memorial. Program held nightly late May through the end of September.

Lakota, Nakota and Dakota Heritage Village (10 - 30 minutes)

Explore the history of the Black Hills and the Native American people who have populated this land since time immemorial. Featuring Darrell Red Cloud and Sequoia Crosswhite and located along the first section of the Presidential Trail, this area highlights the customs and traditions of local Native American communities. Open late May through mid-August. Schedule is listed on the event calendar.

Hoop Dance Performance on Grand View Terrace (60 minutes)

Join Lakota Artist & Hoop Dancer Extraordinaire Starr Chief Eagle for an hour of hoop dancing and storytelling. The activity includes audience participation and music. It is located on the Grand View Terrace starting at 9:00am on Thursdays throughout the summer. Schedule is listed on the event calendar.

Youth Exploration Area (10 - 30 minutes)

Explore the natural, cultural and historical aspects of Mount Rushmore with interactive programs. Located along the first sections of the Presidential Trail. Open 11 - 12:30 am daily June through early August.