Events
Join us in sharing our historic heritage through community events.
Hidden Treasure Heritage Festival
June 21-22, 2024
The Hidden Treasure Heritage Festival is a yearly event that celebrates the colorful history of Lead and Homestake. Organized by Lead Historic Preservation and sponsored the South Dakota Humanities Council, South Dakota Historical Society, South Dakota Arts Council, and the City of Lead, this event promises to be an enightening and fun experience for all.
The 2024 Heritage Festival celebrates the early Italian community and the legacy of the 16 Homestake superintendents, starting with the esteemed William Farrish, appointed by none other than George Hearst himself.
Friday, June 21
Taste of Italy: Italian Cooking Class and Wine tasting
5:30pm-7pm | Roundhouse | 106 Glendale Dr
Delight your senses with three carefully selected wines hailing from the Piedmont region of Italy (non-alcoholic option will be available), expertly paired with a delectable pasta dish from northern Italy and a tantalizing dessert. The dish will be demonstrated by Sarah Does with noodles provided by Tasteful Noods, sauce provided by Sarah Does and wine, expertly provided by a sommelier from Antunez in Spearfish. As a special treat, each guest will take home a package of noodles from Tasteful Noods along with the recipe to recreate these mouthwatering dishes at home. Tickets are $75 each and will be available soon.
Homestake Trivia Contest
7:30pm | Lewie’s Burgers & Brews | 711 S Main St
Test your knowledge with engaging trivia questions covering both Homestake and Lead, hosted by the renowned long-time resident and former Homestake employee, Mike Stahl. Gather your friends, showcase your expertise, and support a great cause at this entertaining event. There will be $5 cover charge.
Saturday, June 22
Exhibits of Italians and Homestake Superintendents
9am-6:30pm | Lead-Deadwood Arts Center | 309 W Main St
Experience the captivating journey of Italian immigrants through a stunning display of pictures and artifacts, offering a glimpse into their lives in Lead. View the Homestake Mine’s legacy as you explore pictures, articles, and stories detailing the 15 superintendents.
Hidden Treasure Heritage Hunt
9am-4pm | Lead-Deadwood Arts Center | 309 W Main St
Follow the clues and uncover hidden treasure to claim the ultimate prize at the open house. It’s a chance to explore the exhibits and create unforgettable memories.
Italian Neighborhood Tours
10am & 2pm | Start at That Place in Lead | 501 W Main St
Explore Lead’s Italian neighborhood on our guided tour, starting from That Place in Lead and winding through Upper Main, Blue, Julius, Alert, and Stone Streets. During the 1.5-hour excursion, we’ll make a special stop at the Lead-Deadwood Arts Center. Here, a docent will offer insights into the Italian community’s influence on Lead’s history and culture.
Marinara Contest
12pm-1pm | Lotus Up | 95 E Main St
Be part of the celebration of Italian heritage by entering our Marinara Contest. It’s a chance to share your love for Italian cuisine and compete with others who appreciate the flavors of Italy. Whether you have Italian roots or simply enjoy good food, this contest is a fun way to showcase your marinara-making skills. Or, come try each entry and cast your vote for the “people’s choice” winner.
Tombolo “Italian Bingo”
2pm-3pm | Manuel Brothers Park
Experience this family-friendly event featuring Tombolo, also known as Italian Bingo. Test your luck and strategy as you mark off numbers on your card to win prizes. Originating from Italy, Tombolo adds a unique cultural twist to the classic bingo game, making it a must-try experience during the festival.
Fun for Kids
2pm and 4pm | Manuel Brothers Park
Get ready for a fun adventure at the Children’s Playtime Event in the park! We’re bringing back games that Italian families used to play in Lead. Get ready to spin wooden tops, play cops and robbers, hopscotch, and loads more. It’s like stepping into a time machine and discovering the secrets of fun from the past.
Funding provided by:
Hidden Treasure Heritage Festival Exhibits Open House
5pm-6:30pm | Lead-Deadwood Arts Center | 309 W Main St
Hear captivating presentations from individuals with deep family ties to Lead’s Italian history during the open house. While you are there, explore fascinating exhibits that bring the past to life, from the superintendents of Homestake to the vibrant heritage of Italian families in Lead.
Deadwood Songbook
7pm-9pm | Homestake Opera House | 711 S Main St
Enjoy Deadwood Songbook, performed by the former members of the Red Willow Bank, Hank Harris, Kenny Putnam and Marley Forman. They will bring to life rich musical history, complete with insightful commentary. After the performance, stick around for a Q&A session with Lead Historic Preservation members where you can delve deeper into Lead’s history.
Funding provided by:
For questions and more information, contact Terry at terrywsmith53@yahoo.com.
CONTACT
Lead Historic Preservation
Lead City Hall
801 W Main St
Lead, SD 57754
(605) 581-1401