EVENTS | Upcoming South Dakota events & entertainment

Submit your events for The Dakota Scout's Lounge section by emailing events@thedakotascout.com.

Free Music Friday

Friday, July 12 • 6 p.m.
Dada Gastropub, Sioux Falls

Join us in downtown Sioux Falls for our July 12 Free Music Friday featuring Amy Ellsworth. All Ages welcome, full regular beverage and cocktail service throughout.

Late Night Boomin’ - Live Show

Friday, July 12 • 8:30 p.m.
Washington Pavilion, Sioux Falls

Join us for the next live filming of Late Night Boomin! on Friday. See all the outtakes, win some prizes, and have a hoot with us at the Washington Pavilion. It’s family-friendly and free, what could be better?

Slamdakota Deathfest

Friday, July 12 and Saturday, July 13
Bigs Bar, Sioux Falls

The most vicious fest in the midwest. Get ready to slam and mosh your way through an epic night of death metal madness at Slamdakota Deathfest 2024.

Soo Foo Motofest

Friday, July 12 through Sunday, July 14
J&L Harley-Davidson, Sioux Falls

We want to see all your custom motorcycles and hope you participate in all the bike shows we have to offer for Soo Foo Motofest. The party starts Friday featuring the FXR Chopper Show, continuing on Saturday with the Shine Werks Showdown and Big Sioux Powersports' Off-Road Showcase, and lastly the Speed-Kings’ performance on Sunday.

Zippity Zoo Day

Saturday, July 13 • 9 a.m.
Great Plains Zoo, Sioux Falls

Join us for a day of inflatables, zoo scavenger hunts, bubble parties, and your favorite characters from Simply Ever After.

Taikoarts Midwest

Satruday, July 13 • 10:30 a.m.
Levitt at the Falls, Sioux Falls

Taiko is the Japanese word for drum and refers to the modern style of playing these drums. Think of it as a high-energy performance art that combines music, dance, martial arts, athletics, and culture. Drummer Ensō Daiko offers loud, energetic performances and has taught thousands of students of all ages and abilities. The group regularly premieres new work adding their unique voice to the expanding canon and innovation of North American taiko.

VIEWPOINT: Presumptive probation safeguards liberty

Super Saturday Fishing

Saturday, July 13 • 1 p.m.
Outdoor Campus, Sioux Falls

Learn the basics of fishing this summer. This open-house style program is easy for participants with limited time. All equipment is provided. Open to all ages, youth must be with an adult. Registration is not required.

Pascuala Ilabaca

Saturday, July 13 • 7 p.m.
Levitt at the Falls, Sioux Falls

Hailing from Valparaiso, Chile, singer-songwriter Pascuala Ilabaca is a unique and treasured voice in both the Latin American and world music scenes. In little over a decade, she has released six albums and performed on multiple world tours. She is known for her flamboyant and refreshing performances. In 2013, Ilabaca was awarded Best World Beat Album at the Independent Music Awards. She also received the Pulsar Prize, the most important Chilean music industry award.

Brookings Summer Arts Festival

Saturday, July 13 and Sunday, July 14 Pioneer Park, Brookings

Join the fun and celebrate the arts at the 53rd Brookings Summer Arts Festival. Over 175 juried artists bring original and handcrafted art. 36 food vendors, 15 living history, 10 antique and 34 artisan food & natural booths are featured throughout the park. A lively Children’s area and free entertainment on 3 stages round out the festival experience. 

Killer Queen - A Tribute to Queen

Sunday, July 14 • 8 p.m.
Washington Pavilion, Sioux Falls

Killer Queen - A Tribute To Queen Featuring Patrick Myers as Freddie Mercury hits Washington Pavilion. Lead singer Patrick Myers said, “It’s been an amazing journey. That first show changed my life. We thought our band would last maybe a summer at the most but it’s a very addictive thing performing these songs. The concerts grew and grew and we’ve ended up playing and selling out the same arenas that Queen played at their peak. It’s been quite a surreal ride.”

Chill at the Hill

Wednesday, July 17 • 5 p.m.
Great Bear Recreation Park, Sioux Falls

Relax with an evening at The Bear. Join us for Chill at the Hill on July 17. We'll feature Oh My Cupcakes!, live music, and a food truck. The bar will be open serving beer and wine. Hope to see some new and familiar faces.

Paddle Battle

Thursday, July 18 • 5 p.m.
SCHEELS, Sioux Falls

Join us for a fun filled pickleball tournament right here at SCHEELS. This is a friendly competition for 18+, so grab your doubles partner and bring the whole family out for an evening full of food trucks, live music, games and more.

Ron Artis II

Thursday, July 18 • 7 p.m.
Levitt at the Falls, Sioux Falls

Hailing from Haleiwa, Hawaii, this award-winning artist brings a unique, soulful, honest songwriting style to the stage, performing all-original music and energizing audiences all across the globe. His blazing, versatile guitar playing style is captivating. New and established fans leave the experience feeling loved, electrified, and inspired by the lyrics. Ron Artis II performs alongside Jarod Manis on drums and Ernie Escraela on bass.