The end of a decade is looming and we’ll be flipping the calendar over to 2010 before we know it. There’s always something interesting going on in the Black Hills, but the next few days promise to be especially exciting as people ring in the new year.

Arguably, the most well-known New Year’s Eve event in the Black Hills is the city-wide celebration in Deadwood. Every December 31st, thousands of people crowd the streets of Deadwood to celebrate and try their luck in the famous gambling halls.

There will be live music, dancing, cash giveaways and more. The main event is always the countdown to midnight and the lighted ball-drop in front of the Historic Franklin, shown above.

In Sturgis, there will be an alcohol-free family-friendly event at the Sturgis Armory. This “First Night” event will include kids games, bowling, clowns and other entertainment. For more details about First Night in Sturgis and a full schedule of events, call the Sturgis Chamber at 605-347-2556.

Another New Year’s Eve favorite for many people in the Black Hills is the annual symphony concert. The Black Hills Symphony Orchestra will perform at 8 p.m at the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center, in Rapid City. The concert will also feature ventriloquist Jim Barber and his family as part of the performance.

Other events around Rapid City include the signature ping pong ball drop at the Alex Johnson Hotel, a family water party at the WaTiki Water Park, and a New Year’s Eve bash at the Rushmore Plaza Holiday Inn.

With the variety of events in the next few days, there’s bound to be something for everyone. Get our your funny hats and noise-makers and have a Happy New Year!