HILL CITY, S.D. — What if a music festival could remind people that they are all connected?

That’s the idea behind Stardust Fest, a one-of-a-kind celebration of music, art, creativity and community returning to the Black Hills on June 28.

Founded by Black Hills musician and artist Bobbie Jo Kuhl, Stardust Fest was created as a way to bring people together while celebrating original music, local artists and the creative spirit that makes the region unique.

“I loved the idea of having a music festival and playing my originals while also bringing people together for community and the celebration of music and art,” Kuhl said.

The festival’s name came from a fascinating scientific fact that immediately resonated with her vision.

“When I learned that we are made up of over 97% stardust, the festival name popped into my head,” Kuhl said.

While her original vision for the festival was much larger, Kuhl said she has learned that meaningful community events are built over time.

“My original vision was much larger, but I have since realized that’s something it needs to grow into and not happen immediately,” she said.

New Home in Hill City

This year’s event marks an exciting new chapter for Stardust Fest as it moves to a new location in Hill City.

The festival will be held on property that was formerly home to Prairie Berry Winery and is now connected to Cohort Brewery and the future site of the Black Hills Natural History Museum.

The connection couldn’t be more fitting.

“They are building the Black Hills Natural History Museum on the property, and it just so happens they are going to have an entire exhibit dedicated to how we are, in fact, stardust,” Kuhl said.

The museum is expected to open in 2027, but festival organizers saw an opportunity to begin creating memories in the space this year.

“We decided to start the event this year and kick off being in the new environment,” Kuhl said.

Adding to the atmosphere is a stunning view of Black Elk Peak, creating a uniquely Black Hills backdrop for a day dedicated to music, creativity and connection.

A Lineup Rooted in the Black Hills Music Scene

Since its inception, Stardust Fest has showcased some of the region’s most talented musicians, and this year’s lineup continues that tradition.

Kuhl said longtime festival favorites Camp Comfort have traditionally served as headliners, but scheduling conflicts led her to rethink this year’s lineup.

Instead, attendees will experience a diverse collection of performers who represent the depth and talent of the Black Hills music scene.

Among them is Johnny Hastings, who recently released new music and has collaborated with Kuhl on several recordings.

“Johnny Hastings was coming out with a new album I wanted to help promote,” Kuhl said. “He helped me out and played lead guitar on a couple of my recordings too, so it seemed fitting to have us both play.”

Returning favorites Devon and Chris, whom Kuhl refers to as her “OG StardustFest singer-songwriters,” will also perform alongside rising artists Zac Conger and Abbey Leach.

“When I heard them each perform live, I knew they had to be part of this,” Kuhl said.

Festival-goers can also look forward to a performance from Sundown Messiah, one of Kuhl’s favorite Black Hills bands.

“I love the sound, energy and songs they perform,” she said.

Adding another layer of artistry to the event will be Sultry Shimmy Belly Dance, a group that has become a staple of Stardust Fest.

“Booking them is a must for me,” Kuhl said.

More Than Just Music

While live music serves as the centerpiece of the festival, Stardust Fest offers far more than a concert.

The day will begin with the Wambli Ska Drummers, a decision Kuhl said reflects the importance of honoring the land’s original culture and history.

“I’ve learned that it’s important to honor the people and original culture of the land,” Kuhl said. “I feel a Lakota presence is always important at these events.”

According to Kuhl, this may be the first Lakota drumming ceremony held on that portion of the property.

Throughout the day, attendees will find guest speakers, psychic readings, henna tattoos, tattoo artists, handcrafted goods and a wide variety of vendors showcasing their talents and products.

“The vendors always have different and new merchandise for each event that is one of a kind,” Kuhl said.

Calling All Vendors

While preparations are well underway, Kuhl is still seeking additional vendors to participate in this year’s festival.

In particular, she hopes to expand the event’s health and wellness offerings.

“I love highlighting health and wellness at these events,” she said. “Self-care is a great way to promote more creativity.”

Kuhl is looking for massage therapists, Reiki practitioners, acupuncturists and other wellness professionals to join the festival.

She is also searching for someone who offers aura photography, which she believes would be a popular addition.

Beyond wellness vendors, Kuhl welcomes artists, creators and entrepreneurs who offer unique and creative products or services.

A Festival Built Around Community

At its core, Stardust Fest is about bringing people together.

For Kuhl, the most rewarding part of organizing the event isn’t the music or the logistics, it’s hearing from people afterward.

“The most rewarding moments are when people tell me how much they enjoyed the event,” she said. “I always hear it from patrons, vendors and musicians.”

Those connections and shared experiences are exactly what she hopes attendees take home when the day is over.

“I hope they take the joy and happiness they feel at this event and pay it forward to everyone they meet by sharing positivity with others,” Kuhl said.

For those who have never attended Stardust Fest, Kuhl believes the experience speaks for itself.

“You will have an uplifting experience while supporting others who are making their hopes and dreams come true,” she said. “In turn, you’ll be filled with new perspectives and inspiration on your own creative endeavors.”

Stardust Fest takes place June 28 in Hill City, offering residents and visitors from Rapid City, the Black Hills and beyond an opportunity to celebrate music, creativity, community and the simple idea that we’re all connected by something much bigger than ourselves.