Burning Beetle In Custer
The burning of the beetle is a yearly event in Custer, South Dakota in January usually around the 3rd week. Besides the burning, there are other things to do like a variety show, a silent auction, a coloring contest, a bug crawl, and fireworks. Torches are sold for $25.00 and there is merchandise to buy, including a very good campfire cream ale beer made especially for the occasion. The whole event was so much fun, and I especially enjoyed the march to the beetle. Even with the extreme temperatures, people came from all over for this event. It is definitely something to see and partake in at least once.
Morning hours - still need to finish putting the beetle together.
Putting finishing touches on the beetle.
Christmas trees brought in and put around the beetle.
Beetle is ready to burn.
Fire department at the Custer High School ready to light the torches.
People lining up early to get their torch.
Passing out the torches.
Lighting of the torches.
The march begins.
Guided by a police car with sirens, a mascot beetle, and parts of the marching band - we head off to the beetle.
Some people brings cool props to the burning.
Arriving at the beetle.
Beetle is set on fire.
Torches are thrown in.
The fireworks begin - just awesome.
The beetle is defeated.
Had a special Burn Beetle Burn beer the night before.