October — First Responders Appreciation Month

Event Schedule

October 9 & 10, 2026

Plankinton, South Dakota

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Friday · October 9

Two evening programs. Both require registration.

Self-Defense Class

4:00 – 6:00 PM · $20 per person

  • WherePlankinton School Gym404 Davenport Street, Plankinton, South Dakota
  • InstructorShihan David SheetsSoDak Kyokushin Karate
  • WhoOpen to everyone. No experience needed.
  • You getPractical self-defense techniques, hands-on training practice, and a certificate of completion.

Before you come:

  • A waiver is required for every participant.
  • Participants under 18 need a parent or guardian signature.
  • Not registered in advance? Arrive 30 minutes early.

Register on Eventbrite

PTSD 9-1-1 Film Screening & Panel Discussion

Doors 6:30 PM · Program 7:00 – 9:30 PM · Free

  • WhereSilo Market120 S Main St, Plankinton, South Dakota
  • WhoAges 16 and olderLimited seating — registration required
  • Evening
    • 6:30 PMDoors open
    • 7:00 PMWelcome & introductions
    • 7:15 PMPTSD 9-1-1 documentary screening (84 min.)
    • 8:45 PMLive panel discussion
    • 9:30 PMWrap-up & closing

Viewer discretion advised. PTSD 9-1-1 is based on true events and some content may be distressing. The film is intended for educational and awareness purposes and does not provide medical or legal advice.

Reserve a Free Seat Questions or Group Reservations

Screening Flyer

PTSD 9-1-1 film screening flyer for Friday October 9, 2026 at Silo Market Open Full Size for Printing

Saturday · October 10

Free and open to the public. No registration needed.

South Dakota Safety Days

Doors open 11:00 AM · Event closes 5:00 PM

  • WhereAurora County Ag BuildingPlankinton, South Dakota
  • CostFree and open to the public
  • WhyThe first event of its kind in South Dakota — held because Aurora County made October First Responders Appreciation Month, and the state followed.

All Day · 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Meet the Crews and Their Rigs

  • Fire trucks, ambulances, and law enforcement vehicles
  • Avera Careflight mobile simulation
  • Firefighter games

Skills That Save Lives

  • Stop the Bleed training
  • Fire extinguisher training
  • How to become a firefighter, EMT, or law enforcement officer

For Kids

  • Art table and letters to first responders
  • Complete any kids' activity by 4:00 PM to enter the prize drawing

Also On Site

  • Food trucks
  • Vendor tables and displays
  • Silent auction
  • More activities to come

Come and go as you please — everything above runs continuously.

1:30 PM

Ceremony and First Responders Awards

  • National anthem, welcome, and remarks from invited guests and county, city, and state representatives.
  • Recognition of the Aurora County proclamation that made October First Responders Appreciation Month, and of the statewide proclamation now carrying it to all 66 counties.
  • Awards presented to Aurora County firefighters, EMS providers, and law enforcement officers.

Full Event Flyer · Both Days

South Dakota Safety Days full event flyer for October 9 and 10, 2026 Open Full Size for Printing

Be Part of the Weekend

Reserve a vendor table, sponsor the event, or lend a hand as a volunteer. Every bit of it goes toward honoring Aurora County's first responders.

Support the Event Volunteer With Us