National South Dakota Day

National South Dakota Day is observed on April 26. This day recognizes the 40th state to join the union and celebrates the expansive landscapes of the Great Plains, from the Black Hills to the Missouri River. It serves as an opportunity to honor the state’s cultural heritage, its diverse wildlife, and the iconic landmarks that define its identity within the United States.

See also: National North Dakota Day

History of National South Dakota Day

The territory that became South Dakota was originally inhabited by the Arikara people, who were later joined and eventually replaced by the Sioux Nation. In 1743, the Verendrye brothers became the first Europeans to explore the region, claiming the land for France by burying an inscribed lead plate near present-day Fort Pierre. The United States later acquired the region in 1803 as part of the Louisiana Purchase, leading to further exploration by the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1804.

South Dakota was officially admitted to the Union on November 2, 1889. President Benjamin Harrison famously shuffled the statehood papers for North and South Dakota before signing them, so the exact order of their entry remains unknown, though South Dakota is traditionally considered the 40th state. National South Dakota Day was established as part of a modern initiative to celebrate each of the 50 states in the order they joined the union, providing a dedicated 24-hour period to focus on the unique history and geography of the Mount Rushmore State.

Why is National South Dakota Day important?

This day highlights the significance of South Dakota as a center for both American history and natural conservation. The state is home to some of the nation’s most recognizable symbols, including the Mount Rushmore National Memorial and the Crazy Horse Memorial. These sites attract millions of visitors, fostering an appreciation for the artistry and engineering required to carve massive tributes into granite. The observance also brings attention to the state’s vital agricultural sector, which remains a cornerstone of its economy.

The holiday is also an important time to recognize the heritage of the nine federally recognized tribes that call this land home. South Dakota’s identity is deeply intertwined with Native American culture, and the day encourages a respectful look at the traditions and histories of the Lakota, Dakota, and Nakota people. By celebrating the state’s rugged beauty—from the spires of the Badlands to the depths of Wind Cave—the public is reminded of the importance of preserving these unique ecosystems for future generations.

• South Dakota contains two of the longest caves in the world, Wind Cave and Jewel Cave.
• The state is a major producer of sunflowers, honey, and flaxseed.
• Mount Rushmore took 14 years to complete and features 60-foot-tall presidential faces.
• The Black Hills are among the oldest mountain ranges in North America.
• South Dakota has one of the highest concentrations of fossils in the United States.

How to Celebrate National South Dakota Day

Celebrating this day often involves planning a trip to one of the state’s numerous national or state parks. For those already in the region, taking a scenic drive through Spearfish Canyon or the Peter Norbeck National Scenic Byway offers a direct look at the stunning topography. Many people observe the day by visiting local museums, such as the National Music Museum or the South Dakota Cultural Heritage Center, to learn more about the pioneers and indigenous leaders who shaped the territory.

Food also plays a role in the celebration, with many choosing to enjoy regional specialties like chislic—cubed meat that is typically deep-fried and salted—or kuchen, which is the official state dessert. For those outside the state, the day can be observed by reading about the “Great 8” landmarks or researching the biographies of notable residents like Sitting Bull or Ernest Lawrence. Sharing photos of the state’s dramatic sunsets or its roaming bison herds on social media helps promote the area as a destination for nature lovers and history buffs.

• Plan a future visit to see the granite spires of Custer State Park.
• Prepare a meal featuring local favorites like chislic or fry bread.
• Watch a documentary about the construction of the Crazy Horse Memorial.
• Explore the history of the “Corn Palace” in Mitchell through their digital archives.
• Learn about the wildlife of the prairie, including bighorn sheep and prairie dogs.

National South Dakota Day Dates Table