Deadwood, S.D. – This weekend the historic town of Deadwood becomes a hub for songwriters and music lovers as the Wild West Songwriters Festival rolls out three days of live performances across the city’s bars, casinos and outdoor patios. Most of the events are free, giving families an affordable way to enjoy new music while supporting local businesses.
Festival concept and community impact
Founded by Scene Project’s Bubba Startz, the festival was created at the request of the Deadwood Chamber of Commerce to give songwriters a hands‑on, interactive experience. “It really started from the chamber of commerce wanting to put on a really interactive event for the songwriters,” Startz explained. “Deadwood is a huge music town, but often the local talent that we have here has kind of been overlooked.”
By turning everyday venues into listening rooms, the festival showcases writers from Nashville and beyond alongside regional talent. Artists perform songs they have penned as well as brand‑new material, offering audiences a glimpse into the creative process.
Free writers’ rounds and rotating sets
Scattered throughout the city, free writers’ rounds feature short sets and rotating line‑ups, allowing festival‑goers to sample a variety of styles in a single evening. Startz, who also writes songs, said he feels privileged to share the stage with so many talented individuals from the Black Hills region and beyond. “As a songwriter, I’m really blessed to get to share the stage with so many amazing individuals here, and around the Black Hills, and the Black Hills region, and now to be a bigger part of it,” he said.
Boost to tourism and local economy
Organizers anticipate that the three‑day event will fill hotels and restaurants, extending Deadwood’s tourist season beyond the traditional summer months. The influx of visitors provides an affordable weekend outing for families and helps sustain the town’s hospitality sector during the shoulder season.
Local business owners have expressed enthusiasm for the added foot traffic. One restaurant manager noted that the festival brings “new faces to our doors and a chance for us to showcase the hospitality that Deadwood is known for.”
What visitors can expect
Attendees can expect a relaxed atmosphere where they can enjoy live music while sipping a drink or sharing a meal. The festival’s schedule includes performances at popular venues such as the historic Saloon No. 10, the Deadwood Casino, and several patio spaces that overlook the town’s iconic streets.
Because most shows are free, families can attend multiple events without worrying about ticket costs. For those who wish to support the artists directly, merchandise and optional donations will be available at each venue.
Looking ahead
The Wild West Songwriters Festival aims to become an annual tradition that highlights Deadwood’s cultural heritage and musical talent. Organizers hope the success of this year’s event will encourage more festivals and arts initiatives that celebrate the town’s unique character.
For a full schedule and venue list, visit the festival’s website or contact the Deadwood Chamber of Commerce.
Original reporting: KOTA (Gray) – local — read the source article.
