Annual Events

 Join us as we celebrate Laura Ingalls Wilder's birthday on Saturday, February 6, 2027 at 12:00 Noon!

Enjoy a complimentary afternoon of birthday festivities featuring birthday cake, hot chocolate, and fellowship with fellow Laura fans. The event is free and open to the public.

Guests who purchase a tour during the event will be eligible for special door prize drawings, making it the perfect opportunity to experience the historic homes and learn more about Laura's life and legacy.

As an added birthday treat, receive 10% off all Gift Shop merchandise during the celebration.

Come help us honor America's beloved pioneer author and celebrate her special day in De Smet! 

  Saturday, July 24, 2027 | 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Freewill Donation

Step back in time and experience the pioneer world of Laura Ingalls Wilder during this special day of hands-on learning, history, and fun for the whole family!

Throughout the day, visitors can explore our Discovery Center and learn traditional pioneer skills from knowledgeable demonstrators. Try your hand at activities and demonstrations such as crocheting, knitting, quilt making, sewing on a treadle sewing machine, yarn making, butter making, soap making, and more. Guests of all ages will gain a deeper appreciation for the creativity, hard work, and self-sufficiency that were part of everyday life on the prairie.

We're also pleased to welcome back Jessica Michna, nationally acclaimed historical interpreter, as she portrays the elder Laura Ingalls Wilder. Visitors will have the opportunity to meet "Laura," hear her stories, ask questions, and experience history brought vividly to life.

Whether you're a lifelong Laura fan or discovering her story for the first time, A Day with Laura offers a unique opportunity to connect with the skills, traditions, and spirit of the pioneer era.

Join us for a memorable day celebrating the life, legacy, and enduring pioneer spirit of Laura Ingalls Wilder.

Freewill Donation Appreciated
De Smet, South Dakota

Saturday, October 3,2026 • 12:00 Noon Only

Step inside history and experience one of Laura Ingalls Wilder's most memorable De Smet homes in a whole new way!

Join us for Inside Laura's Surveyors' House, an exclusive event featuring a dramatic reading of the chapter from By the Shores of Silver Lake describing the Ingalls family's move into the Surveyors' House. Hear Laura's story come to life while standing in the very home where those cherished memories took place.

Your special event admission also includes:

* Guided Tour with dramatic reading in the Surveyors' House

* Hot cider and cookies in the Gift Shop

* Laura-themed Trivia Scavenger Hunt with prizes

* Special Cemetery Tour

* Admission to the Museum Exhibit (an $8 value)

* 10% Off Store Purchases

Special Event Pricing

Adults: $28

Children: $15

Seniors (65+): 10% discount

Military with ID: 10% discount

Space is limited, so don't miss this unique opportunity to step into Laura's world, enjoy exclusive activities, and celebrate De Smet's rich pioneer heritage.

"Come inside Laura's Surveyors' House and experience history where the story happened."

  Step back in time and experience Christmas in         De Smet by the warm glow of candlelight!

Saturday, December 12, 2026

Cookies & Hot Chocolate 5:00 PM

Tour Begins at 5:30 PM

Join us for a special evening as our historic tour takes on a festive holiday atmosphere. Guests will gather in the Gift Shop to enjoy cookies and hot chocolate before setting out on a candlelit tour of the historic buildings.

The evening concludes at the Ingalls Home, where a choir will lead guests in singing beloved Christmas carols. As a sweet holiday farewell, each visitor will receive a candy cane on their way out.

Admission

Adults: $18

Children: $10

Seniors (65+): 10% discount

Active Military & Veterans with ID: 10% discount

De Smet Residents: 50% discount

Make this special holiday event part of your Christmas traditions and experience the historic homes in a way that's only possible during the Christmas season.