EVENTS | Upcoming South Dakota events & entertainment
Submit your events for The Dakota Scout's Lounge section by emailing events@thedakotascout.com.
Parade of Lights 2024
Friday, Dec. 6 • 6 p.m.
Broadway Avenue, Pierre
Join us for the Parade of Lights in Pierre as Broadway Avenue transforms into a dazzling display of holiday lights and festive cheer. The parade will feature brightly lit floats, marching bands, and local organizations, creating a magical atmosphere for the entire family. Don’t miss the chance to kick off the holiday season in style while enjoying the festive spirit of this beloved tradition.
Disney Jr. LIVE On Tour: Let’s Play
Friday, Dec. 6 • 7 p.m.
The Monument, Rapid City
Disney Jr. LIVE On Tour: Let’s Play is coming to Rapid City. This interactive show brings beloved Disney Junior characters to life, offering an exciting experience for kids and families alike. Watch as characters from popular shows like Mickey Mouse Clubhouse and PJ Masks engage in fun-filled activities that encourage participation and laughter. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a night out with your little ones.
Christmas Market at RISE
Friday, Dec. 6 & Saturday, Dec. 7
RISE, Rapid City
The Christmas Market at RISE in Rapid City will feature unique handcrafted gifts, local goods, and festive decorations. This holiday market offers the perfect opportunity to find one-of-a-kind presents while supporting local artisans. Whether you're searching for a special gift or just want to enjoy the holiday atmosphere, this market is a must-visit for all.
Christmas at the Dells
Friday, Dec. 6 - Sunday, Dec. 8
Dell Rapids
The 2024 “Christmas at the Dells” celebration with this year’s theme being “A Griswold Family Christmas.” The event will feature a variety of activities for all ages, including a parade, the Jingle Bell Run, a crafts and cocoa event, and a Chase the Grinch scavenger hunt. There will also be a cookie decorating contest, a Christmas house decorating contest, and a food drive as part of the “Scrooge” contest. Additionally, a coloring contest will be held for children to showcase their creativity.
Oahe Winter Festival
Saturday, Dec. 7 • 9 a.m.
Pierre Street, Pierre
Celebrate winter in Pierre at the Oahe Winter Festival held on Pierre Street. The festival will feature fun winter activities for all ages, including ice skating, snowshoeing, and games. Come out and enjoy the crisp winter air while taking part in the seasonal festivities that make this event a favorite for families in the area.
605 Made Holiday Market
Saturday, Dec. 7 • 10 a.m.
Cherapa Place, Sioux Falls
The 605 Made Holiday Market will be held on Saturday. This market showcases the best local artisans, makers, and entrepreneurs, offering unique holiday gifts and one-of-a-kind finds. It’s the perfect place to do your holiday shopping while supporting local businesses and discovering something special.
Rebelfest Craft and Vendor Fair
Saturday, Dec. 7 • 11 a.m.
South Middle School, Rapid City
The Rebelfest Craft and Vendor Fair will take place on Saturday at South Middle School. This event brings together a wide variety of craft vendors and local businesses, offering handmade goods, unique gifts, and more. It’s a great opportunity to support local artisans while finding the perfect gifts for everyone on your list.
Christmas at The Rush
Saturday, Dec. 7 • 11 a.m.
The Rush, Sioux Falls
Join us at The Rush on Saturday for Christmas at The Rush, where holiday shopping meets festive fun. Enjoy our silent auction, featuring a wide range of fabulous items with all proceeds benefiting local families in need. In addition to shopping, there will be 50/50 raffles, a bead game, and prizes for the best-dressed attendees, making this a joyful and charitable way to celebrate the season.
Black Hills Indian Artist Market
Saturday, Dec. 7 • 11 a.m.
Dahl Arts Center, Rapid City
The Black Hills Indian Artist Market celebrates local indigenous artists and designers. The event will include a fashion show, ribbon skirt contest, live entertainment, and a free community meal. It’s a wonderful way to explore native culture, support local talent, and enjoy a festive atmosphere with the entire community.
Horsemen’s Meetings & Mixer
Saturday, Dec. 7 • 1 p.m.
Pierre Youth Center, Pierre
The South Dakota Horsemen’s Meetings & Mixer will be held at the Pierre Youth Center. This event is an opportunity for horse enthusiasts and community members to connect and discuss the future of the horse industry in South Dakota. Whether you’re a seasoned equestrian or new to the scene, come enjoy this informative and social gathering.
Charity Bingo and Brews
Saturday, Dec. 7 • 3 p.m.
Buffalo Ridge Brewing Project, Hartford
Join us for Charity Bingo and Brews at the Buffalo Ridge Brewing Project in Hartford. This fun and relaxing event supports The Foster Network, and features exciting bingo games, delicious craft brews, and the chance to win fantastic prizes. It’s a great way to enjoy an afternoon out while supporting a good cause.
Storybook Island’s Christmas Nights of Lights
Saturday, Dec. 7 • 5:30 p.m.
Storybook Island, Rapid City
Celebrate the holiday season at Storybook Island’s Christmas Nights of Lights. Enjoy the magic of the holidays with a Strider Discovery Ride through twinkling lights and festive decorations. This family-friendly event offers a magical experience for all ages, perfect for creating holiday memories with loved ones.
Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party
Saturday, Dec. 7 • 6 p.m.
Denny Sanford PREMIER Center, Sioux Falls
Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party. This exciting show features Mickey and his friends embarking on a search for treasures in a magical adventure full of beloved Disney characters. With stunning skating performances, this is an unforgettable experience for the whole family.
Tomahawk County and Condor
Saturday, Dec. 7 • 9 p.m.
Icon Event Hall + Lounge, Sioux Falls
Enjoy an exciting night of live music with Tomahawk County and Condor. Tomahawk County is a bluegrass band with a fun mix of Grateful Dead and Phish covers, while Condor blends folk and bluegrass with their unique "creamgrass" style. It’s an evening of great music and a perfect way to kick back and enjoy the local scene.
Santa at The Alliance
Sunday, Dec. 8 • 11 a.m.
The Alliance, Sioux Falls
Come to The Alliance in Sioux Falls on Sunday for a delightful holiday gathering with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Enjoy festive activities including candy canes, crafts, and photo opportunities with the jolly couple. It’s the perfect way to make cherished holiday memories with your family.
Holiday for Fiddles
Sunday, Dec. 8 • 3 p.m.
Performing Arts Center, Rapid City
Don’t miss the third annual Holiday for Fiddles concert at the Performing Arts Center in Rapid City. This concert brings together talented musicians including Kenny Putnam and Tom Schaefer for an afternoon filled with traditional fiddling and holiday music. It’s a wonderful way to get into the holiday spirit and enjoy live music.
Cookies with Santa
Tuesday, Dec. 10 • 5 p.m.
Great Shots, Sioux Falls
Join us at Great Shots in Sioux Falls for Cookies with Santa. This free event includes fun activities such as golfing, hot chocolate stations, sugar cookie decorating, and an ornament craft station. It's a perfect opportunity for families to spend time together while enjoying the holiday cheer.
2024 Human Rights Day Award Ceremony
Tuesday, Dec. 10 • 6:30 p.m.
Multi-Cultural Center, Sioux Falls
The 2024 Human Rights Day Award Ceremony will take place at the Multi-Cultural Center in Sioux Falls on Tuesday. This event will honor individuals and organizations who have made significant contributions to promoting human rights in the community. Join us for an inspiring evening of recognition and reflection on the progress made in the fight for equality.
Festival of Trees
Wednesday, Dec. 11 - Friday, Dec. 13
Dahl Arts Center, Rapid City
The Festival of Trees will be held at the Dahl Arts Center in Rapid City. This annual event features beautifully decorated trees, each one donated and designed by local individuals and businesses. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the holiday season and experience the creativity of the community while supporting a great cause.
