The City of Box Elder’s most anticipated annual celebration returns Saturday, September 12, as the City proudly hosts the 9th Annual Salute to Ellsworth.

This free, family-friendly event celebrates the deep-rooted 84-year partnership between Ellsworth Air Force Base and the Box Elder community, while honoring the service and sacrifice of the military members who have helped shape our community for generations.

Attendees can enjoy a full day of activities, including live music, food trucks, kids’ activities, a car show, and more, with the celebration ending with a spectacular fireworks finale. The public is invited to attend, enjoy the festivities, and bring lawn chairs for a full day of entertainment. Salute to Ellsworth is more than an event; it’s a celebration of the people, partnerships, and shared history that make Box Elder and Ellsworth Air Force Base stronger together.

Event Timeline:

• 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM: YFS Harvest Festival located at Youth & Family Services’ Fullerton Farm
• 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM: Wings & Wheels Car Show presented by Black Hills Ford and Mustang at the South Dakota Air & Space Museum
• 3:00 PM: Parade through Box Elder
• 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Main Event at City Hall
  • Live music, food trucks, vendors, petting zoo, and free family activities
• 4:30 PM: Honor Guard & National Anthem on the main stage
• 5:00 PM: Centennial 2026 Box Elder Time Capsule Ceremony
• 7:15 PM: Pre-Fireworks Glow DJ Dance Party near the main stage
• 8:00 PM: Grand Fireworks Show

FREE Entertainment & Attractions:

• Live music by 10 Miles From Nowhere
• Parade
• Petting Zoo
• "Paint the Plow" art activity
• “Cops n’ Bobbers” fishing fun
• Face painting by Pixie Dust Party Co.
• Cotton candy by Sweet Fluff Cotton Candy
• Educational wildlife encounters by Black Hills Raptor Center
• Kids’ games with prizes
• Pre-fireworks Glow Dance Party
• Fireworks Show