Rooster Rush 2025 in Fort Pierre

Written By Jasmin Fosheim

Fall in central South Dakota means cooler nights, colorful leaves, and the excitement of pheasant hunting season. Each year, communities across the state come together to celebrate Rooster Rush, and Fort Pierre is proud to once again welcome hunters and showcase the spirit of the season.

Welcoming Hunters to the Capital City Region

Opening weekend is always a special time, and this year Fort Pierre Tourism and Pierre Tourism are teaming up to greet hunters as they arrive at the Pierre Regional Airport. Visitors flying in will be welcomed with orange gear, local information, and a friendly reminder that our communities are ready to roll out the orange carpet. From lodging and dining to entertainment and shopping, Fort Pierre businesses are eager to make every hunter’s stay memorable.

Photo by Travel South Dakota

Rooster Rush Storefront Decorating Contest

Nothing brings the community together quite like a little friendly competition. The Rooster Rush Storefront Decorating Contest is back for 2025, and we can’t wait to see what our local businesses create.

  • Theme: Fall & Hunting – celebrating autumn and South Dakota’s outdoor traditions.

  • Open To: Businesses in both Fort Pierre and Pierre.

  • How to Enter: Register by emailing mpanzer@pierre.org by October 9th.

  • Photos with Rudy the Rooster: We’ll visit participating storefronts on Tuesday, October 14th, snapping photos with Rudy. Staff are encouraged to dress in orange or their best hunting attire!

  • Voting: October 15th – 17th at noon on the Chamber Facebook page.

  • Winner Announced: October 17th, when the traveling pheasant trophy will be delivered to the winning business and featured on Facebook.

Last year, 21 businesses participated between Pierre and Fort Pierre, and we’re excited to see that number grow even more this year.

Photo by Travel South Dakota

Reading in the Schools

Rooster Rush isn’t just about welcoming hunters—it’s also about celebrating our outdoor heritage with the next generation. As part of this year’s festivities, Nick Harrington from South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks will be visiting local schools on Wednesday, October 15th to read to students. This fun tradition introduces kids to the season while encouraging a love of reading and pride in our state’s traditions.

Thank You to Our Partners

Rooster Rush is possible because of the strong support of our community. A special thank you goes to Pierre Tourism, the South Dakota Department of Tourism, and our local lodging, entertainment, restaurant, and retail businesses. Together, you make Rooster Rush not only a celebration for hunters but a showcase of everything that makes Fort Pierre a great place to live and visit.

Jasmin Fosheim
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