Deadwood's Days of 76 includes a rodeo. (South Dakota Tourism photo)
DEADWOOD, S.D. – For more than 80 years, a historic town has played host to one of South Dakota’s great events. Deadwood, a revived Old West and gold mining town, fills with visitors the end of each July for the Days of ‘76 celebration.
The Days of ’76 festival is a commemoration that honors Deadwood’s first pioneers. In 1876, the gold-filled Dakota Territory was invaded by those seeking to go from rags to riches overnight.
This year marks the 88th year for the Days of ’76.
The annual five-day event is one of South Dakota’s biggest rodeos. Steer roping, timed events, rodeo slack, barrel racing, and other rodeo performances are all part of this unique tradition. It has been named the PRCA Small Outdoor Rodeo of the Year and PRCA Midsize Rodeo of the Year numerous times.
In addition to the rodeo, there is a Days of ’76 parade on two days of the event. The parade travels through historic downtown Deadwood.
While in Deadwood, visit the Days of ’76 Museum. The museum features horse-drawn wagons, stage coaches, carriages, clothing, memorabilia and archives that have been generated by the celebration.
This year, Days of ’76 takes place July 26-30.
To learn more about the Days of ’76 celebration, visit the Days of ‘76 Rodeo website, the Days of ‘76 Museum website, and the Deadwood Chamber of Commerce website.
— From a Department of Tourism news release
