During the first full weekend in June, cavalry troops and infantry units converge on the fort's grounds to form a military encampment complete with soldiers, women and children, and all the necessary tents, uniforms, horses, and memorabilia. The military is joined by fur traders and other participants of the Rendezvous - muzzleloaders, riflemen and crack-shots from eight states meet amidst a teepee encampment with dozens of lodges and traders.
The festival covers the whole gamut of frontier life and settlement. It includes fiddle music, historic figures, an art and craft show, melodrama stage show, songs and music from the Civil War, period dance instruction classes, and a military costume ball. Colorful costumes, tall tales and unique system of bartering will bring history to life.
Admission is $5 per person (12 and over).
Dates: Friday June 6- June 8th
***View tentative Schedule here (this is subject to change):
https://www.canva.com/design/DAGhdQwUSUU/gjjHpgXVNX500DdVc8jVCQ/view?utm_content=DAGhdQwUSUU&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=h434a3ff36c
***OPENS FEBRUARY 29th FOR ONLINE RESERVATIONS***
Dry Camping during the Festival:
Stay on the grounds during the Festival and experience the night like our forefathers once did - sleep comfortably under the stars and enjoy the sounds of the great outdoors.
$25 per unit per night (includes daily admission)
Use the South Gate for both camping and general admission
Reservations are available for public camping (located near south entrance).
Reservations open at 7 a.m. 90 days prior to arrival campsd.com or 1.800.710.2267
Campsites will be assigned upon arrival
Making reservations will reduce check-in time. Please remember your confirmation letter.
Food Vendors will be onsite including authentic Mexican, authentic Greek, BBQ, Fried Mini Doughnuts, a Coffee Wagon, and much more!
For Vendor Information, Arts and Crafts Vendor Application, Food Vendor Application, Rendezvous Application, Rendezvous Vendor Application please scroll to the bottom of the page:
https://gfp.sd.gov/historical-festival/
You may also like the following events from Fort Sisseton Historic State Park:
Also check out other
Festivals in Eden,
Trips & Adventurous Activities in Eden.