Don't Miss The Most Awe-Inspiring Event In South Dakota This Summer

While the monument is an incredible sight all day long, the most awe-inspiring view is during the nightly lighting ceremony that's held every evening during the summer and early fall months. In 2018, the lighting ceremony starts on May 25th and goes through September 30th.

The ceremony starts with an interesting ranger talk about the history of the memorial. Then, you'll enjoy the film, "Freedom: America's Lasting Legacy," which tells you all about each U.S. President depicted in the memorial.

After the monument is fully lit, veterans in the audience are invited to come down onto the stage. Each gives their name and branch of service, and the audience claps and shows appreciation for the sacrifices of the brave men and women who serve our country as the flag is lowered.

The lighting ceremony at Mount Rushmore National Monument will remind you of the tremendous work and sacrifices of those Presidents, as well as those of the service men and women who keep our country safe. You'll be proud to be an American when you see this awe-inspiring ceremony.

From May 25th through August 11th, the ceremony takes place at 9 PM; August 12th through September 30th, the ceremony starts at 8 PM. Admission to Mount Rushmore National Monument is free; parking costs $10 per vehicle.

In the hour or so before the lighting ceremony, the park gets very crowded, and lines are long. Arrive a few hours early. Visit the Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center to learn all about the history of the memorial, then take a stroll down the Presidential Trail. To read our article about the trail click here.