Fireworks explode above Mount Rushmore National Memorial in South Dakota on July 3, 2026, after a speech by President Donald Trump to mark the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. (Photo by Meghan O’Brien/South Dakota Searchlight)
Last month’s Mount Rushmore fireworks cost South Dakota $450,000 more than the generated economic benefits, as reported by the state Department of Tourism. The state invested $2.8 million for the July 3 celebration, which resulted in $2.35 million in economic impact.
According to a press release from the department, the research firm Tourism Economics conducted the economic analysis. The event also garnered $51 million in “publicity value” through 53.7 billion audience impressions, though this was not part of the economic impact.
Tourism Secretary James Hagen praised the investment, stating it bolstered the tourism economy and reinforced South Dakota’s reputation as a premier destination. The expenses included $700,000 for pyrotechnics, with additional costs for media production and shuttle services.
South Dakota Searchlight sought clarity on whether the costs involved other public entities like the city of Keystone and the U.S. Forest Service. The department is working on a response.
The estimated $2.35 million impact involved visitor spending, hotel rentals, and sales tax revenue. The event, attended by 4,800 people from 40 states, featured a keynote speech by President Donald Trump and a fireworks display over Mount Rushmore.
Critics have raised concerns over the environmental impact, including wildfire risks and pollution from fireworks debris. While this year’s event faced no organized protests, the 2020 celebration was met with demonstrations by Native Americans advocating for the return of the Black Hills to Lakota tribes.
This story was originally produced by South Dakota Searchlight, part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and donors as a 501c(3) public charity.
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