New Record Attendance Set for Annual Buffalo Roundup at Custer State Park

October 3, 2023

PIERRE, S.D. – A record 22,590 visitors attended the 58th Annual Buffalo Roundup at Custer State Park on Friday morning, watching as 60 horseback riders wrangled the herd of 1,500 bison into the corrals for their annual health check. This number surpassed the previous record, which had previously been 22,078 visitors set in 2015 during the 50th anniversary event.

Custer State Park also hosted its three-day arts festival in conjunction with the Buffalo Roundup. Crowds assembled throughout the celebration to enjoy a variety of entertainment under the big top, educational programs, and vendors from all over the country.

"It's easy to say the event was a success because we set a record for attendance, but it's most important that everyone who attended had an awesome time," said Lydia Austin, Visitor Services Coordinator. "We were able to enjoy fantastic fall weather, great attendance at the Art's Festival, and everyone made memories that will last a lifetime."

The annual Roundup serves as a tool to help manage the park's buffalo herd. Approximately 500 bison will be sold at the park's annual auction on Saturday, Nov. 4. For more information on the auction, contact the park at 605.394.2693 or email CusterStatePark@state.sd.us.

Next year's Buffalo Roundup will be held on Friday, Sept. 27, 2024.

 

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