Golden Guitars Gala Sets New Fundraising Record In Rapid City

We South Dakotans have a long-standing reputation for showing up when it matters, and that rep was on full display in the Black Hills earlier this month.

On June 13, the fifth annual Golden Guitars Gala once again brought together music lovers, community leaders, and generous donors for an unforgettable night at The Monument in Rapid City. Created by South Dakota native Kory Van Sickle, frontman of Kory & the Fireflies, the event has quickly grown into one of the region’s top fundraising events.

And this year? It reached a whole new level.

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According to Dakota News Now, the 2026 gala raised a record-breaking $781,250 to benefit children receiving care through Monument Health and the Children’s Miracle Network. That’s the highest total ever brought in by a single Foundation event, an incredible milestone for the Black Hills community.

One major reason for the surge in donations was a surprise appearance from rock legend Bret Michaels, lead singer of Poison. Michaels not only energized the crowd with an intimate acoustic performance, but he also helped drive bidding during the event’s signature guitar auction. He even contributed a one-of-a-kind package that included signed guitars and a travel experience to a future concert, something fans were more than willing to open their wallets for.

The Golden Guitars Auction continues to be a highlight each year, featuring instruments signed by some of the biggest names in music. This time around, a guitar signed by country superstar Jason Aldean stole the show, fetching an eye-popping $55,000! Other big-name artists who donated signed guitars to the event included: Dolly Parton, Mötley Crüe, Blake Shelton, Foreigner, and Journey.

What helps to make this event especially meaningful for South Dakotans, from Sioux Falls to Rapid City and everywhere in between, is that every dollar raised stays local. The funds raised go to kids who need it the most. The children and families who rely on Monument Health for critical care.

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