Happy Birthday, Mrs. Z!

On Tuesday, June 26, Crazy Horse Memorial will salute President-CEO Ruth Ziolkowski on her 86th birthday. The ceremonial night blast also will commemorate the anniversary of the June 25, 1876, Battle of the Little Big Horn. Crazy Horse (Tasunke Witko) was a main strategist in the historic defeat of government troops.

The fiery pyrotechnic display on the Memorial’s mountain carving grows each year and is among the Memorial’s most popular events. The public is advised to arrive early, expect heavy vehicle traffic near the Memorial’s entrance on U.S. Highway 16/385, and to anticipate parking some distance from the visitor complex. Shuttle service will be provided.

After 7 p.m., admission is free for those contributing three cans of food per person for the KOTA Care and Share Food Drive.

Celebrants attending the spectacular gala will be treated to a share of “Mrs. Z’s” birthday cake. The reception at the Laughing Water Restaurant will follow the night blast and the “Legends in Light” laser and light show, also presented on the giant mountain carving in progress.