EVENTS | Upcoming South Dakota events & entertainment
Submit your events for The Dakota Scout's Lounge section by emailing events@thedakotascout.com.
Zoo Lovers Day
Friday, Dec. 27 • 10 a.m.
Great Plains Zoo, Sioux Falls
Celebrate Zoo Lovers Day at the Great Plains Zoo on December 27 with free admission. Enjoy zookeeper chats in the zoo's cozy, winter-viewing areas, where you can learn about some of your favorite animals. The schedule for zookeeper chats includes the Japanese Macaques at 11 a.m., the Snow Leopard at 12 p.m., and the Lions at 1 p.m. Be sure to bundle up, bring your curiosity, and join us for a fun and educational day at the zoo.
The Hello Hi-Fidelity: Sadie Soul
Friday, Dec. 27 • 6 p.m.
The Hello Hi, Sioux Falls
We are excited to welcome Sadie Soul to Hello Hi-Fidelity for the first time. Enjoy a night of 60s and 70s soul, funk, and R&B music. It’s a perfect opportunity to experience these timeless genres in a lively and welcoming setting.
Todd Kieffer LIVE
Friday, Dec. 27 • 7 p.m.
JD’s Lounge, Pierre
Join us for an evening of great music, amazing food, and the best drinks in town as we host Todd Kieffer. It’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy live music in a fun and welcoming atmosphere. Don't miss out on this special event, where you can relax and unwind with friends. We look forward to seeing you there.
Gallivant
Friday, Dec. 27 • 7 p.m.
Bigs Bar, Sioux Falls
Gallivant is a three-piece, party-style, riff-based rock band that sets a high bar for the new age of rock and roll music. Based in Omaha, NE, Gallivant began in 2016. The band is comprised of smooth and funky bass player Joe Donnelly, riff master and guitarist Sam Hayes, and powerhouse drummer Josh Craig. Together, the trio creates a moving and melodic riff-centric sound, featuring wildly harmonic vocal sections and instrumental solos that will leave you awestruck.
Aby’s Ugly Sweater Xmas Special
Friday, Dec. 27 • 7 p.m.
Aby’s, Rapid City
The Scene Projects present an “Ugly” Xmas Special featuring seven local songwriters, plus a silent/live auction for the Helping Avery Fund to benefit the Klima Family. Hosted by Bubba Startz at Aby’s Bar and Venue. Come share a cheerful evening full of holiday spirit as Bubba Startz leads our songwriters through true stories of their lives and the songs they use to tell them. This will be an intimate evening with local songwriters and a festive “ugly sweater” theme. Drink specials and contests will also be part of Aby’s Xmas party.
Downtown Southend Food Tour
Saturday, Dec. 28 • 1 p.m.
Fernson Downtown, Sioux Falls
Sioux Falls Food Tours presents the Downtown Southend Food Tour. Whether you're a local or a visitor, there's no better way to experience Sioux Falls than through its myriad of local cafes, breweries, and restaurants. This food tour is designed to provide an inclusive, varied tasting experience of the best Sioux Falls has to offer. Stops will include everything from sweet to savory and will offer a better insight into the culinary scene and the people who are advancing it.
DC Comics Night
Saturday, Dec. 28 • 6 p.m.
Denny Sanford PREMIER Center, Sioux Falls
Join us for DC Comics Night with the Stampede Hockey team. The team will wear special Batman-themed jerseys, which will be available for purchase through the DASH Auction. In addition to the auction, there will be a scavenger hunt and other exciting activities throughout the event. Don't miss this unique and fun evening.
Judd Hoos & Denham
Saturday, Dec. 28 • 8:30 p.m.
The Park, Rapid City
Judd Hoos and Denham Present Juliet Motel, featuring special guest Dakotah Faye. This exciting event will showcase an evening of live music from these talented artists. Join us for a memorable night of great performances and an unforgettable atmosphere. Don't miss the chance to experience this incredible lineup.
Holiday Light Show
Friday, Dec. 27 - Sunday, Dec. 29
The Country Apple Orchard, Harrisburg
Continue your holiday traditions at the Country Apple Orchard’s Holiday Light Show. This 30-minute light display, set to festive holiday music, will help get you in the spirit of the season. Bring your friends and family, load up the car with hot chocolate and snacks, and enjoy the show from the comfort of your vehicle. The show is available at three different times: 6, 7, or 8 p.m.
Themed Cookie Class
Monday, Dec. 30 • 7 p.m.
Severance Brewing, Sioux Falls
Join us at Severance Brewing for a New Year's Eve-themed cookie class. During this class, you will decorate five sugar cookies with royal icing and take home your designs, along with a special cookie decorated by HEB Bakes. You will also receive a goodie bag that includes a coordinating holiday cookie cutter. All you need to bring is yourself; everything else will be provided, including a tray to bring your designs home.
New Year’s Eve Potluck
Tuesday, Dec. 31 • 4 p.m.
Grey Goose Store & Social Club, Pierre
We are staying open late for New Year's Eve and planning a fun evening with NYE libations at the bar, bar games, and a neighborhood potluck. Bring a favorite dish to share and explore a variety of flavors as we celebrate together. Join us as we ring in the new year with good food, drinks, and great company.
New Year’s Eve Celebration
Tuesday, Dec. 31 • 4 p.m.
Drifters Bar & Grille, Fort Pierre
Welcome 2025 in style at Drifters Bar & Grille. The exclusive dinner features include Steak Frites, with tender marinated bison hanger steak over home fries and chimichurri; Picanha Mac & Cheese, with roasted picanha steak over creamy mac and cheese, topped with crispy onion tanglers; and Pheasant Confit, featuring confit pheasant over sweet corn puree with roasted beets, chevre cheese, fresh dill, and pomegranate molasses. Special drink and dessert features will also be available. Mark your calendars and join us as we toast to the new year.
New Year’s Eve Party
Tuesday, Dec. 31 • 4 p.m.
Blarney Stone, Sioux Falls
Get ready to kick off the New Year at Blarney Stone Pub's New Year's Eve Party. We have everything you need, including dinner specials, free champagne at midnight, and giveaways. Come hang out, have a great time, and let's welcome the new year together.
New Year’s Eve at The Social
Tuesday, Dec. 31 • 7 p.m.
The Social, Sioux Falls
Join us at The Social for an unforgettable night. Undercover Band is back, bringing the beats to countdown to 2025. Last year, we sold out, and this year is shaping up to be even bigger. Grab your friends, put on your party shoes, and let's make some memories.
Country Line Dancing
Tuesday, Dec. 31 • 7 p.m.
Titans Taverns, Tea
Join us for a night of country line dancing at Titan's Tavern. Whether you're a seasoned dancer or a two-step beginner, we have the moves and the music to make your Monday special. Grab your friends, hit the dance floor, and let's make it a night to remember.
New Year’s Eve Party
Tuesday, Dec. 31 • 7 p.m.
The Outpost Lodge, Pierre
Join us for a New Year's Eve Party at the Outpost Lodge. Show off your best 80's costume for a chance to win a $50 bar tab as the first prize. Bring a dish to share and add your flavor to the celebration, with ribs provided. It will be a great way to ring in the new year with good food, fun, and great company.
Midnight Reverie Masquerade Ball
Tuesday, Dec. 31 • 8 p.m.
Glacial Lakes Distillery, Downtown Sioux Falls
Step into a world of velvet shadows and golden light at Glacial Lakes Distillery’s New Year's Eve Masquerade Ball. Experience the grandeur of a bygone era with handcrafted Prohibition-era cocktails, specialty champagne creations to sparkle the night away, and a midnight toast with complimentary champagne. Let the evening sweep you into a rich tapestry of elegance and allure, as masks conceal identities and add an air of mystery. Drape yourself in your finest attire and join us for an unforgettable celebration to ring in 2025.
New Year’s Eve at PAve
Tuesday, Dec. 31 • 8 p.m.
PAve, Sioux Falls
Join us at PAve to ring in 2025 with an unforgettable celebration. Enjoy a free photo booth, capture memories, and dance the night away to live DJ sets. Coat check will be available by the front door for your convenience, and we will be offering champagne specials throughout the night. Invite your friends and come celebrate the new year with us.
New Year’s Eve with Judd Hoos & Denham
Tuesday, Dec. 31 • 8 p.m.
DaDa Gastropub, Sioux Falls
Join Judd Hoos and Denham as they present "Juliet Hotel" on New Year's Eve, featuring an incredible lineup of special guests including Eon Zero, Jake Luke, and Night Shield. This exciting event promises a night of unforgettable music and great energy to ring in the new year. Don't miss out on an evening of live performances that will make this New Year's celebration one to remember. Come experience the magic of "Juliet Hotel" and enjoy the sounds of talented artists in a memorable setting.
New Year’s Eve Party at Skate City
Tuesday, Dec. 31 • 9 p.m.
Skate City, Sioux Falls
Ring in the new year on wheels at Skate City, where you can enjoy a fun and exciting evening with your loved ones. The event will feature door prizes and party favors for all guests. It offers a perfect opportunity for families with older kids to celebrate together in a lively and safe environment. Join us for a memorable night of skating, entertainment, and festivities to welcome the new year.
A “Bridgerton” New Year’s Eve Concert
Tuesday, Dec. 31 • 9 p.m.
Performing Arts Center, Rapid City
Join the Black Hills Symphony Orchestra for the Bridgerton-inspired New Year's Eve Concert. Experience music from both the real and re-imagined courts of Europe. The evening promises to be a sophisticated celebration, featuring captivating performances that transport you to a world of elegance and charm. Guests are encouraged to wear costumes, tiaras, and court attire to fully embrace the theme. It's an enchanting way to ring in the new year with style and grace.
Intergalactic Cosmic Cabaret
Tuesday, Dec. 31 • 10 p.m.
The Park, Rapid City
We offer a fully seated GA section for $35, or you can treat yourself to our VIP experience, which includes an exclusive VIP bar with tab service, expedited entry, an hors d'oeuvre table, and drink specials. A champagne toast will be provided for all at midnight, followed by huge prize giveaways after midnight. We will be giving away two trips for two to Las Vegas with airfare allowance, along with a third cash prize giveaway of $250. These trips will be announced during our special midnight champagne countdown with DJ Vader.
Masquerade & Mischief
Tuesday, Dec. 31 • 10 p.m.
The Hotel Alex Johnson, Rapid City
A New Year’s Eve of mischief awaits you in the Historic Hotel Alex Johnson Ballroom on Tuesday, December 31. Put on your finest masquerade mask, dress to impress, and dance your way into 2025 as you enjoy an unforgettable evening. The night will feature live entertainment from Drive By Night, along with The Alex’s annual Midnight Ball Drop on 6th Street. It’s the perfect way to ring in the new year with style and excitement.
12th Annual Downtown Burger Battle
Wednesday, Jan. 1 • 9 a.m.
Downtown, Sioux Falls
Get ready for the ultimate showdown at the 12th Annual Downtown Burger Battle, starting January 1, 2025, and running through January 31. Head downtown, or order for pickup or delivery, and savor some of the best burgers around. Rate each burger on a 10-point scale in five categories: flavor, patty, toppings, bun, and presentation. The burger with the highest score will be crowned champion at the end of the month. Cast your votes easily through the DTSF Digital Passport app and be part of the fun.
New Year’s Day Ride
Wednesday, Jan. 1 • 12 p.m.
Spoke-N-Sport, Sioux Falls
Join us at Spoke-N-Sport on New Year's Day for a group ride and family fun. Doors will open at noon, with the ride starting at 1 p.m. Enjoy a variety of activities including a free prize wheel, Wendy's chili, beverages, and the opportunity to connect with the community. It’s the perfect way to kick off the new year with good company and great vibes.
