Our visit to Sturgis/Rapid City, South Dakota would not be complete without a visit to Mt. Rushmore. We deliberately saved the best for last. The Independence Day celebration at Mt. Rushmore is spread out over two days, July 3 and 4.
The four presidents as viewed above the Avenue of the States at the entrance to Mt. Rushmore National Memorial. The flags of the 50 states and six possessions are displayed on 14 pillars.
In the past, fireworks were used for the 4th of July celebrations. They have not been part used for several years due to dry conditions for the last few years and the possibility of fire being started from a falling piece or stray spark. Selected musicians and dancers are present at the National Memorial over July 3rd and 4th as well as actors representing the four presidents carved on the mountain. Some of the special programs are held in a theater in the museum but evening activities are always held in the amphitheater at the base of the carvings. There’s also a 14-minute video that plays every 20 minutes that gives a good overview of the development of Rushmore. It’s narrated by Tom Brokaw.
Photos can hardly give an idea of the large proportions of the carvings. This photo gives you a clue. The people, at the lower portion, are standing on the observation deck of the museum.
The evening programs consist of honoring our veterans, a flag-folding ceremony and other recognitions and musical performances. The concert this year was presented by the USAF Brass in Blue ensemble from Offutt Air Force Base in Nebraska. This was quite an impressive group of ten brass players, a percussionist, and a vocal soloist. They delighted us with a variety of music for more than one hour. The finalé was the playing of the National Anthem as the sculpture on the mountain was lit and the flag retreat (lowering and folding) performed by the Ellsworth Air Force Base Honor Guard.
The four trumpets, two horns, euphonium, tuba, and two trombones from Brass in Blue performed in the amphitheater at the base of Mt. Rushmore for more than an hour. Their program closed with The National Anthem as the presidential images were lit.
This proved to be another one of those moments where emotions catch you off guard. The National Park Service has done an excellent job of making this a patriotic and inspirational venue.
Mount Rushmore at night. Viewing it is a great way to cap off a visit to the National Memorial.
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