story by LESLIE HLADYSZ
Imagine going back in time to experience the true wild west of South Dakota in a lively, unique and engaging way. Memorial Day weekend is just that opportunity as Hill City celebrates its 150th birthday and its roots in the logging industry. And all are welcome to join in the free birthday fun and celebration at the Heart of the Hills Lumberjack Show and Logging Days, a new twist on an old festival and an unparalleled chance for families to have fun and make memories.
The Heart of the Hills Lumberjack Show is a revival of the original“ Heart O’ the Hills Logging Show,” a beloved local tradition held from 1973 to 2014,” says Erica Layton, Executive Director of the Hill City Area Chamber of Commerce and the woman behind the new event.
“ The historic event brought regional loggers together to demonstrate their skills and compete using traditional logging techniques. The chamber is reintroducing the festival in 2026 as part of Hill City’ s 150th anniversary celebration, aiming to reestablish it as an annual signature event,” explains Layton.
The fun-filled weekend is packed with the main draw of three high-energy lumberjack shows daily that will feature 11 competitive events. No two shows are the same.
From the moment the shows begin, spectators will be immersed in the head to head competition. Root for your favorite lumberjack as they sprint across a series of floating logs as the logs spin out of control in the always-popular boom running competition.
Witness Log Rolling, an event that tests balance and agility, with lumberjacks spinning logs with their feet in an effort to to dislodge an opponent.
Cheer on the fast and furious competition of hot saw racing, a loud and intense competition to make clean cuts in the fastest time possible. Or experience the thrill of springboard tree topping where lumberjacks use springboards to chop through high logs, demonstrating strategy, balance and chopping prowess.
Each event takes extraordinary skill and immense strength and features awe-inspiring demonstrations of prowess and power.
And best of all the show is completely free and family friendly. It’ s a great way to support a local community, the Heart of the Hills as Hill City is known, and make memories with your loved ones at the same time.
“ The timber industry was a key economic component of Hill City ' s growth and survival for over 100 years,” Layton explains.“ Through this festival, the Hill City Area Chamber of Commerce aims to preserve local heritage, stimulate tourism, support Hill City’ s small businesses and provide meaningful community engagement.”
The weekend has something for everyone: axe throwing, which benefits local charities, chainsaw carving and even a bracket-style cornhole tournament for cash prizes.
There are free interactive kids camps— a safe, fun, free and
a true immersive experience— allowing participants to become a lumberjack, learning the skills behind the feats seen in the show.
The festival also features free music including Hill City ' s own Brent Morris serving up some country rock, the smooth classic sounds of JJ Kent and the contemporary and traditional sounds of Sequoia Crosswhite, whose music and cultural teachings has touched audiences worldwide.
Local beer will be served up as well or, as you work up an ample appetite, why not sample the many different flavors of Hill City’ s scrumptious restaurants?
Spectators can begin the weekend, both Saturday and Sunday, from 8 a. m. to 11 a. m., with a hearty all you can eat breakfast of pancakes, eggs and sausage with coffee, juice, or tea, served up and in support of the Hill City Seniors. The Hill City Seniors have served up countless breakfasts for people from all over the world and their breakfasts are considered a breakfast not to be missed by patrons who come back year after year. At a bargain adult price of $ 7, $ 4 for children 5-10 and free for those 4 and under it’ s the perfect way to eat like a lumberjack and begin a day of fun in Hill City.
Whether you’ re marveling at the dexterity of a lumberjack high atop a log or the sheer power of a chainsaw, the Heart of the Hills Lumberjack Show offers a unique and unforgettable experience that truly captures the spirit of Hill City and the wild west.
“ The Hills Lumberjack Show and Logging Days is a truly unique, family-friendly experience where you don ' t just watch, you become part of it by trying your skills at axe throwing or log rolling,” says Layton.“ Set against the stunning backdrop of the Black Hills, it celebrates authentic local culture while showcasing Hill City ' s unbeatable small-town charm and hospitality. Best of all, it ' s free, and full of memories waiting to be made.”
Mark your calendars for all the fun May 23 & May 24 with three shows daily at 11 a. m., 1:30 p. m. and 4 p. m. To learn more check out the Hill City Area Chamber of Commerce at VisitHillCity. com or the Facebook event page Heart of the Hills Lumber Jack Show and Logging Days. myblackshillscountry. com Down Country Roads
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