Deadwood, South Dakota – The town’s beloved Halloween tradition, Deadweird, kicks off this weekend with two nights of entertainment for adults and families. The events, organized by the Deadwood Chamber of Commerce, run Friday, Oct. 30, and Saturday, Oct. 31, and are designed to bring together the community while honoring the town’s historic spirit.
Friday Night: Monster Ball at Deadwood Mountain Grand
Starting at 7 p.m., the thirteenth annual Monster Ball will be held at the Deadwood Mountain Grand. Live music from local band Flannel will set the tone for an evening of dancing, a People’s Choice Costume Contest, and prize giveaways. Attendees must be 21 or older, and a $10 cover charge applies. The event promises a lively atmosphere for adults looking to enjoy Halloween in a safe, supervised setting.
Saturday Night: Deadweird Costume Contest at the Historic Franklin Hotel
Saturday’s highlight is the Deadweird Costume Contest, hosted by the Historic Franklin Hotel. With $5,000 in cash and prizes, the contest draws the most elaborate costumes from across South Dakota and the surrounding region. Participants must also be 21 or older and pay a $5 entry fee. Registration runs from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., and judging takes place on site until 9 p.m. Winners are announced at 9:30 p.m.
Prizes will be awarded in several categories, including best single or duo, best group, best handmade costume, and best themed costume. The contest provides a platform for creative expression while reinforcing community pride.
KidWeird Trunk‑or‑Treat and Family Activities
Families with children can enjoy the Deadwood Trunk‑or‑Treat from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Days of ’76 Event Complex. The 26th annual KidWeird Halloween event will also be held at the Deadwood Gulch Convention Center from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., offering free, family‑friendly fun. These activities give younger residents a safe environment to celebrate the holiday.
Community Support and Coordination
Jesse Allen, event coordinator for the Deadwood Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the importance of providing both adult‑focused and family‑focused options. “Deadweird is about bringing our community together,” Allen said in a live interview with KOTA Territory News. “We want everyone to have a memorable, safe Halloween experience, whether they’re dancing at the Monster Ball or enjoying a trunk‑or‑treat with their kids.”
The Chamber’s coordination with local businesses, the historic hotel, and the convention center demonstrates a collaborative effort to boost tourism and support the local economy during the holiday season.
Practical Details
- Monster Ball: Oct. 30, 7 p.m.–10 p.m., Deadwood Mountain Grand, $10 cover, 21+.
- Costume Contest: Oct. 31, 6 p.m.–9 p.m. registration, $5 entry, 21+.
- KidWeird Trunk‑or‑Treat: Oct. 31, 4 p.m.–6 p.m., Days of ’76 Event Complex, free.
- KidWeird Event: Oct. 31, 5 p.m.–8 p.m., Deadwood Gulch Convention Center, free.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to plan ahead, arrive early for registration, and respect the age requirements for each event. With a mix of live music, costume creativity, and family‑friendly activities, Deadweird continues to be a highlight of Deadwood’s cultural calendar.
Original reporting: KOTA (Gray) – local — read the source article.
