Rapid City Mayor Jason Salamun praised the community response to the city’s America 250 Birthday Bash and said he hopes the celebration can become an annual Fourth of July tradition.

During the latest episode of the “Meeting With the Mayor” podcast, Salamun reflected on several days of events that included an evening parade, live music, fireworks, a drone show, food vendors and activities throughout Rapid City.

“It actually was a great unifier for our community,” Salamun said. “I’ve heard it from many, many people.”

Despite rain and hail during the parade, Salamun said crowds remained enthusiastic and the celebration drew tens of thousands of people, according to early estimates. The city invested $250,000 in the event and received nearly $240,000 in sponsorship support.

Salamun credited city staff, local businesses, volunteers, Visit Rapid City and other community partners with helping organize the celebration while limiting costs.

“People come together and they get things done, and it showed what’s possible,” Salamun said.

During the podcast, Salamun presented host Brad “Murdoc” Jurgensen with a limited-edition America 250 challenge coin in recognition of his work promoting the celebration and serving on its steering committee. Salamun said 250 commemorative coins were created for people who helped make the event possible.

“It’s a literal token of our appreciation,” Salamun said.

Murdoc became emotional while accepting the coin and credited city staff and other organizers with doing much of the work behind the celebration.

The mayor said future celebrations could be condensed to July 3 and 4 while retaining popular events such as the evening parade. Holding the Rapid City parade in the evening allowed residents to attend long-running daytime celebrations in neighboring Black Hills communities, including Belle Fourche, Hot Springs, Hill City and Piedmont.

Salamun also highlighted the drone show, which attracted viewers throughout the city. He said future events could improve access to the show’s accompanying narration and music through radio or online broadcasts.

Beyond the celebration, Salamun provided an update on Rapid City’s planned sports complex. Five agreements are expected to come before the City Council during the next month, covering the land donation, construction management, architecture and engineering, third-party facility management and naming rights.

“This is going to be a big deal for us,” Salamun said. “To have regional and national events coming here every week, especially in the offseason.”

Salamun said the complex is intended to improve residents’ quality of life while strengthening Rapid City’s year-round visitor economy.