Rapid City Launches Annual Red Ribbon Week

The city kicks off its drug prevention campaign with a series of community events and a symbolic light display.

Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Civic

Rapid City Launches Annual Red Ribbon Week

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Rapid City officially began observing Red Ribbon Week on October 26, 2026, marking the start of the national drug awareness and prevention campaign. The city is participating with a theme of 'Make a Difference, Be a Hero, Stay Drug Free' alongside various community activities.

Why it matters

Red Ribbon Week serves as a critical opportunity for local organizations to promote drug awareness and prevention among residents. The event aims to mobilize the community through education and engagement to foster a healthier environment.

Red Ribbon Week has been held nationwide since 1985 to promote drug prevention. The local effort features specialized events like a school assembly from 8:30 to 9 a.m. and a skating session running from 1 to 3:15 p.m.

The players

Jason Salamun

Jason Salamun is the Mayor of Rapid City who is presenting a proclamation to the community.

Dinosaur Park

Dinosaur Park is a local landmark in Rapid City that is displaying red lights to support the awareness campaign.

Pinedale Elementary School

Pinedale Elementary School is a local educational facility hosting a community assembly.

Roosevelt Park Ice Arena

Roosevelt Park Ice Arena is the city-operated venue scheduled to host the Spooky Skate event.

Minneluzahan Senior Center

Minneluzahan Senior Center is the municipal facility where the Red Ribbon Week kickoff event took place.

The details

The city is hosting multiple events, including a kickoff at the Minneluzahan Senior Center and a school visit by the mayor. Dinosaur Park is supporting the initiative by illuminating its famous dinosaur statue in red lights throughout the duration of the week.

Red Ribbon Week was initiated nationwide in 1985.
The campaign kicked off in Rapid City on October 26, 2026, when the red light display also began.
Mayor Jason Salamun is scheduled to speak at Pinedale Elementary School on October 29, 2026.
A Spooky Skate event is set for October 31, 2026, at the Roosevelt Park Ice Arena.

Industry Dynamics

This local engagement follows the established pattern set by the national Red Ribbon Week awareness initiative. By aligning with national messaging, Rapid City mirrors a broader trend of municipalities using centralized campaign themes to maximize local prevention impact.

Residents can engage with the campaign by attending events like the Spooky Skate at Roosevelt Park Ice Arena or visiting the illuminated Dinosaur Park. Families should note specific event times to participate in the scheduled school and community programming.

The takeaway

The city-wide observance serves as a reminder of the importance of community-led drug prevention efforts. Residents are encouraged to participate in scheduled events to help maintain local momentum for the campaign.