Fort Sisseton Historical Festival
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, medicine shows, an art and craft show, hoop dancing, 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.
The annual 3-day event draws more than 15,000 visitors and 200 camping units. Our local supporters have "accused" us of doubling the population of rural South Dakota.
June 1-3, 2012
Downloads
- Festival grounds map
- Festival schedule (subject to change)
Admission
$5 dollars per person (12 and over)
Camping
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.
- $20 per unit per night (includes daily admission)
- Campers can begin to arrive Wednesday May 30 after 12 p.m.
- No reservations are taken for Festival camping - All camping is first-come, first-served
- Use the South Gate for both camping and general admission