02/18/2026
Hi! Remember us? Sadly, this isn't the post we wanted to make...we have unfortunately decided to cancel the Torch March, Burning of the Beetle and Fireworks for this year.
The Burning Beetle’s mission and one of its goals is to foster an appreciation for our forest home. We know that we live in an environment that brings uncertainty and change, and Mother Nature will continue to pose challenges for our community. We all remember:
· When the Mountain Pine Beetles came, we learned about those tiny beetles and the destruction they brought. We also learned to deal with the issues they created, and we created the Burning Beetle event to celebrate where we live.
· When the Covid Pandemic came, we worked to keep ourselves safe, we mourned the loss of friends and for a few years our lives changed. But we were resilient and forged ahead.
We are now faced with a winter unlike any in memory. Warm weather, the lack of snow and moisture, and unprecedented winds have created conditions where fire is a real danger.
On the plus side, this January we had a great Community Meeting that raised awareness about this place where we live, and we had a terrific Variety Show at the high school. And an AMAZING Bug Crawl!
The Burning Beetle committee is determined to be back again on January 16, 2027, with our Burning Beetle community celebration that focuses on our connection to the Black Hills and encourages support for the arts in our community.
To those who purchased torch tickets this year, logistically, we are not able to transfer them to next year's beetle. We hope you will consider donating the torch ticket purchase to the Custer Area Arts Council to future its mission of promoting and celebrating arts in the Custer community. However, we understand if you do want a refund. Any refund requests should be emailed to [email protected].
Burn Beetle Burn!🔥🐜🔥
