Laura Ingalls Wilder Pageant

THEATER ON THE PRAIRIE

DE SMET, SOUTH DAKOTA

New for performance in 2025!

The Hard Winter:
Laura’s Dakota Stories

July 11, 12, 13 • 18, 19, 20 • 25, 26, 27, 2025

Gates Open 6PM • Performance at 8PM

A new era comes to the Laura Ingalls Wilder Pageant prairie stage! Debuting in summer 2025, the next installment of Laura’s Dakota Stories new series of summer theatrical productions. Join Laura and her daughter, Rose Wilder Lane, as they craft Laura’s childhood memories of the founding of De Smet and homesteading with her family into the beloved Little House books.

Held on our outdoor, prairie stage overlooking the Big Slough and cottonwood trees planted by Charles Ingalls. This prairie setting highlights the simple beauty of Laura’s stories.  Join us for one of our nine performances!

Live music, wagon rides, and activities before each performance!

2025 Admission
$15 Adults • $10 Children ages 6-12 • Children ages 5 & under Free

No advance purchase necessary for the Laura Ingalls Wilder Pageant Performance in De Smet.  The show does not sell out and we do not turn guests away!  We have plenty of seating, but welcome lawn chairs.

A South Dakota Tradition Since 1971

What an honor to share Laura Ingalls Wilder’s heritage with visitors from around the world each year!
Five of the nine ‘Little House’ books are set in our community. The Laura Ingalls Wilder Pageant has been sharing these stories through theatrical performances for over 50 years! Hundreds of volunteers give countless hours to making this a special event for you to attend!
We invite you to spend a day in De Smet visiting the many historical sites, followed by an evening on the beautiful prairie that captured Laura’s imagination and inspired her beloved books!

New for 2025 Premium Tickets!

A special offering that includes perks, convenience, and an exclusive keepsake!

PLAN YOUR VISIT to DE SMET, SOUTH DAKOTA

We are glad you're planning a visit to De Smet! From historic home tours to covered wagon rides, De Smet offers a wide variety of experiences for Laura fans, history buffs, and road-tripping families!

Be sure to visit the helpful Visit De Smet website when planning your trip.

Attractions

Lodging in De Smet

Other Area Lodging

  • Hometown Motel - 605-625-5226: located in Willow Lake, SD

  • Arlington Inn - 605-983-4609; located in Arlington, SD

  • Prairie Retreat B&B - 605-625-5085; located near Bryant, SD

Camping

Dining

  • Concessions available on our grounds beginning at 6pm

  • Oxbow Restaurant - 800-854-9988

  • Half-Pint Grill & Pub - 605-854-9129

  • Ward's Store and Bakery - 605-854-3688

  • De Smet Mercantile & Coffeehouse - (605) 860-2683

  • Wheatie's Sports Bar - 605-854-3715

  • Klinkel’s III - 605-854-9171

  • Cowboy Country Store - 605-854-3553

  • The Main Stop - 605-854-3200

  • Maynard's Grocery - 605-854-3432

Sharing Laura’s stories on the prairie stage!