As hot air balloonists, we get to see our beautiful community from the most incredible perspective. But what truly makes the Black Hills magical isn’t just the scenery – it’s the spirit of the people and the vibrant life fueled by our local, small businesses.
If you’re looking to support something truly meaningful this holiday season, look no further than shopping small right here in the Black Hills!
Speaking as a business owner myself, I can tell you that these small, locally owned shops, restaurants, experience providers, and every other local trade and service, are the heartbeat of our community. They are run by neighbors who pour their passion into their work.
We do so much more than just run a shop or launch a balloon. We’re often giving back by supporting local charities, paying local taxes, creating local jobs, and providing the kind of exceptional, personalized service that big chains just can’t match. When you support us, you’re supporting the whole Black Hills way of life!
We all live by those sweet, simple truths:
“When you support a small business, you’re supporting a dream.”
“Every time you buy from a small business an actual person does a little happy dance.” (And trust me, that happy dance is real!)
Whether you’re a lifelong local, planning to visit us in 2026, or just love following the Black Hills from afar, there are plenty of wonderful ways you can support us, and our fellow small business owners this holiday season.
Below are a few ideas we have to shop local, shop small, and support family-owned businesses.
You don’t need to spend a dime to help us out! Every little bit of online engagement makes a huge difference to our visibility.
This holiday season, we encourage you to choose meaningful gifts and support the dedicated small business owners who make the Black Hills such a fantastic place to live and visit. We appreciate your support more than you know!
Looking for specific ideas? Below are a few of our favorite locally owned businesses and causes.
Petals and Pages, A Walk In The Woods, The Custer Wolf, HJEM AM, Skogen Kitchen, Deep Creek Gallery, The Quilted Buffalo, The South Dakota Outdoor Shop, The Gold Pan Saloon, Calamity Janes Kitchen, The Custer Beacon, On The Water, Black Hills Parks & Forests Association, Custer Candy Co., Sylvan Rocks Climbing, Miners Cup, The Custer Deli, Black Hills Pizza and Burger, Adventure Rentals, Holly’s Chic Boutique, Little Toms Mercantile, Black Hills Candle, Pizza Mill, Marias Mexican, Art Expressions, and so, so many more…
