Wilder Pageant

Frequently asked questions

Where is Walnut Grove?
Walnut Grove is located in southwest Minnesota on Highway 14,
the Laura Ingalls Wilder Historic Highway.  We are about 150 miles
from Minneapolis - St. Paul, and 100 miles from Sioux Falls, SD.

Where is the Wilder Pageant Site?
The Pageant Site is located one mile west and 1/2 mile south of
Walnut Grove.  See Walnut Grove map.

Where is the nearest motel?
Please refer to our Lodging page for a list of motels in the area.

Is there camping nearby?
Yes.  Plum Creek Park is located 1/2 mile south of the Wilder Pageant
site.  For a list of other campgrounds in the area please refer
to our Camping page.

How long does the Pageant last?
The Pageant starts at 9:00 pm and finishes about 11:00 pm.

Why does it start so late at night?
Because of the lighting and special effects that we use.  They are
much more effective at night.

Do we need to get tickets in advance?
We recommend purchasing tickets in advance, to get the best seating
available.  We have both Reserved Seating and General Admission.
Reserved Seating may sell out, depending on the date.  General Admission
tickets are always available at the gate.

What's the difference between Reserved Seating and General Admission?
Reserved Seating consists of 1000 numbered chairs that are directly in front
of the stage.  General Admission is the hillside area surround the Reserved Seats.
Bring your own chair or blanket for General Admission.

If a child sits on our lap in Reserved Seating, do we need to buy a ticket for them?
No.  Reserved seats are $10.00 per chair, so if a child sits on your lap you
do not need to purchase a ticket for them.

How do we order tickets?
Tickets may be ordered by phone at 888-859-3102, or online. 
There is a handling charge of $2.00 per order.

What time do we need to be there?
If you have Reserved Seats, you can arrive any time between 7:00 and 9:00 pm.
The seats are numbered, and the ushers will show you to your chairs.
General Admission is first come first served, so it would be to your advantage
to arrive between 7:00 and 8:00 pm, to get the best spot on the hill.

Is there a special price for children?
Ages 5 and under are free in General Admission.  Reserved Seats are $10.00
per chair for all ages.

What if it rains?
Refunds are available if Act One is not completed.  You may return your tickets
for a refund, or exchange them for a later date.  We make every effort to complete
the show, and we ask that the audience prepare for all kinds of weather.  There
have been only three rainouts since the Pageant started in 1978.

What if we need to return our tickets?
Tickets may be returned for credit at least two weeks prior to Pageant date.

Is there a discount for groups?
Yes.  Groups of 25 or more receive a $1.00 per ticket discount.  Group tickets
may be reserved; payment is due 1 week prior to Pageant date.

Are the Reserved Seats Handicapped Accessible?
Yes.  There is a sidewalk that leads from the Pageant entrance to the front row
of Reserved Seating.  We reserve the front row of the Yellow Section for
Handicapped seating.