The South Dakota State Fair will again be offering a variety of events throughout the week to honor veterans, military personnel and their families.
On the first official day of the fair, Thursday, August 31, 2023, all veterans, and military personnel will receive free gate admission. A “Salute to Veterans” program will begin on the Freedom Stage at 10:30 a.m. Keynote speakers include Lt Governor Larry Rhoden, Major General (Ret) Tim Reisch and Elsie Van Beek, a teenager who raised $85,000 for sponsorship of a Midwest Honor Flight.
On September 1, fairgoers are encouraged to wear red in support of deployed troops. Everyone in red is asked to meet at the Freedom Stage at 1:30pm to take a group photo that will be sent to the troops.
Throughout the week of the Fair, fairgoers are welcome to stop in at the Prostrollo Motors Building and sign “thank you” signs for the troops. After the Fair, the signs will be sent to three South Dakota National Guard Units.
Staff from the South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs will be at the fair all week in the Expo Building. The staff will update veterans on state and federal benefits, programs, and services.