What's going on, South Dakota? | Upcoming events & entertainment
Submit your events for The Dakota Scout's Lounge section by emailing events@thedakotascout.com.
Stay up to date with our listing of events happening across the state. From festivals and concerts to theater performances, local sports, and community gatherings, we bring you the latest updates on entertainment and activities for all interests. Whether you're seeking family-friendly fun, cultural experiences, or vibrant nightlife, you'll find plenty of exciting events to explore.
Current Events
Sept. 12 - Sept. 18
Tailgate Adult Night at the Zoo
Friday, Sept. 12 • 6 p.m.
Great Plains Zoo, Sioux Falls
Join fellow adults for a fun-filled evening at the zoo featuring tailgate-themed activities and entertainment. Guests can explore the exhibits after hours while enjoying food, drinks, and music in a relaxed, social atmosphere. This event offers a unique opportunity to experience the zoo in a lively and adult-only setting.
Chili Pepper Festival
Friday, Sept. 12 - Sunday, Sept. 14
Jolly Lane Greenhouse, Rapid City
Celebrate the bold flavors of chili peppers with a weekend full of food, local vendors, and family-friendly entertainment. Guests can sample spicy dishes, explore a variety of pepper-inspired products, and enjoy live performances. The event highlights culinary creativity and community fun centered around the love of heat.
Fall Parade of Homes
Saturday, Sept. 13 & Sunday, Sept. 14
Sioux Empire, Sioux Falls
Tour a wide selection of beautifully crafted homes showcasing the latest in design, innovation, and construction. This self-guided event provides inspiration for prospective buyers, remodelers, and those simply interested in home trends. Builders and designers will be available to answer questions and discuss their work.
Iron Butt 1000 Mile Challenge
Saturday, Sept. 13 • 6 a.m.
Pilot Mikes Roadhouse, Sioux Falls
Motorcycle enthusiasts are invited to test their endurance and determination in the Iron Butt 1000 Mile Challenge. This long-distance ride pushes participants to cover 1,000 miles within a 24-hour period. Riders will need mental focus, physical stamina, and a love for the open road as they embark on this challenging journey. It's a test of true grit and passion for long-haul motorcycling.
Indigenous Artists of the Prairie
Saturday, Sept. 13 • 10 a.m.
Good Earth State Park, Sioux Falls
Experience the rich cultural heritage of Indigenous artists through traditional and contemporary works. Visitors can engage with artists, learn about their creative processes, and gain insight into the significance of their pieces. The event fosters appreciation and understanding of Indigenous contributions to the arts.
Oktoberfest
Saturday, Sept. 13 • 11:30 a.m.
Remedy Brewing Co., Sioux Falls
Get ready for an epic day of Bavarian fun at Oktoberfest, where tradition and excitement come together in one festive celebration. Guests can enjoy live music, German food specials, games, and a variety of competitions, including a stein-holding showdown and a home brewing contest. From 12 to 3 p.m., the Bierfest Exclusive offers a unique opportunity to sample an incredible selection of brews. It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in the spirit of Oktoberfest with great flavors, friendly competition, and lively entertainment.
Out of the Darkness Community Walk
Saturday, Sept. 13 • 12 p.m.
Fawick Park, Sioux Falls
Support mental health awareness and suicide prevention by participating in a meaningful community walk. Attendees come together to honor loved ones, share personal stories, and raise funds for crucial programs and services. The walk serves as a powerful reminder of hope, connection, and healing.
Willy’s Hobby Shop Car Show
Saturday, Sept. 13 • 12 p.m.
Willy’s Hobby Shop, Sioux Falls
Car enthusiasts are invited to enjoy a showcase of classic and custom vehicles from local collectors. Attendees can meet other hobbyists, exchange restoration tips, and admire a wide variety of makes and models. This event is a celebration of craftsmanship, community, and a shared passion for cars.
Pheasants Forever Annual Banquet
Saturday, Sept. 13 • 5 p.m.
The Monument, Rapid City
Join fellow conservation supporters for an evening dedicated to wildlife habitat preservation and outdoor traditions. The banquet features dinner, auctions, raffles, and a chance to connect with others who value conservation efforts. Proceeds support local and national projects that protect pheasants and other wildlife.
Lunatics Anonymous
Saturday, Sept. 13 • 7 p.m.
Main Street, Brandon
Catch a high-energy performance from Lunatics Anonymous, a live band known for their dynamic stage presence and genre-blending sound. With powerful vocals, driving rhythms, and an engaging setlist, the band delivers a show that keeps the crowd moving. This performance offers a great night of live music and local talent.
Retro Skate Party
Sunday, Sept. 14 • 7 p.m.
Jacobson Plaza, Sioux Falls
Step back in time for a night of roller skating to your favorite hits from past decades. Guests can show off their moves, dress in vintage attire, and enjoy a nostalgic atmosphere with music and themed decor. It's a playful way to relive memories and create new ones with friends and family.
No Rest, Just Riffs: A Night of Punk & Alt Rock
Sunday, Sept. 14 • 7 p.m.
ICON Event Hall + Lounge, Sioux Falls
Enjoy an unforgettable night of live music featuring four standout bands sharing one powerful stage. Headlined by punk rock favorites Off With Their Heads, the lineup also includes rising alternative act Red Maker, the atmospheric sound of Low Embers, and the high-energy punk stylings of The Degenerates. Each band brings a unique sound, creating a dynamic and diverse concert experience. It's a must-see show for fans of raw, live music across genres.
Melvins
Monday, Sept. 15 • 7 p.m.
Bigs Bar, Sioux Falls
Prepare for an intense night of rock as the Melvins take the stage with their signature heavy sound. Known for their powerful performances and genre-defying style, the band delivers a raw and immersive musical experience. Fans can expect an evening filled with deep riffs and relentless energy.
90s Party
Wednesday, Sept. 17 • 8 p.m.
Aby’s, Rapid City
Revisit the iconic decade with a themed party celebrating all things 90s, from music and fashion to pop culture. Guests are encouraged to dress in era-inspired outfits and dance to the hits that defined a generation. The event offers a vibrant and nostalgic escape into the past.
Cookies, Corks & Brews
Thursday, Sept. 18 • 5:30 p.m.
Monick Yards, Sioux Falls
Cookies, Corks & Brews is an unforgettable evening of indulgence and impact, combining gourmet flavor with meaningful support for local Girl Scouts. Guests will enjoy original dessert creations inspired by iconic Girl Scout Cookies, crafted by top chefs from some of Sioux Falls’ favorite restaurants. The evening also features savory hors d’oeuvres, locally paired wine and beer, and the chance to bid on unique items and experiences during both live and silent auctions. This fun, adult-only event offers a one-of-a-kind tasting experience while helping empower the next generation of girls in our community.
Rockin’ Through the Decades
Thursday, Sept. 18 • 5:30 p.m.
Touchmark at All Saints Retirement Community, Sioux Falls
Take a musical journey through time with a show that highlights hits from multiple decades. Attendees will enjoy live performances that celebrate the evolution of music and the memories tied to each era. The event brings generations together for an evening of timeless tunes and shared enjoyment.
The Film Festival
Thursday, Sept. 18 • 6 p.m.
Sioux Falls State Theatre, Sioux Falls
The Film Festival is South Dakota’s first local film festival created by people with disabilities, for people with disabilities. Now in its second year, this unique event provides a platform to celebrate the creativity, talent, and voices of individuals with physical and developmental disabilities. By empowering filmmakers to share their personal experiences and artistic visions, the festival brings powerful, underrepresented stories to life on the big screen. It’s an inspiring celebration of inclusive storytelling and the impact of authentic representation in film.
Whose Live Anyway!
Thursday, Sept. 18 • 8:30 p.m.
The Monument, Rapid City
Enjoy an unscripted night of comedy as cast members from the popular improv show bring their quick wit and audience interaction to the stage. The performers create scenes and characters on the spot, guided by audience suggestions. It’s a fast-paced, hilarious experience full of surprises and spontaneous humor.
Upcoming Events
Sept. 19 - Sept. 25
Finale Bike Night and Giveaway
Friday, Sept. 19 • 6 p.m.
J&L Harley-Davidson, Sioux Falls
River Revival Gala
Friday, Sept. 19 • 6 p.m.
Cherapa Interconnect - 3rd floor, Sioux Falls
Scared Scriptless
Friday, Sept. 19 • 7 p.m.
Pure Bean Coffeehouse, Rapid City
Saturday in the Park
Saturday, Sept. 20 • 9 a.m.
Tea City Park, Tea
2025 Walk to Defeat ALS
Saturday, Sept. 20 • 10 a.m.
Sertoma Park, Sioux Falls
Ultimate Canyon Poker Run
Saturday, Sept. 20 • 10 a.m.
Black Hills Harley-Davidson, Rapid City
The Great Downtown Pumpkin Festival
Saturday, Sept. 20 • 11 a.m.
Main Street Square, Downtown Rapid City
Riverfest
Saturday, Sept. 20 • 2 p.m.
Downtown, Sioux Falls
Barbeque & Bourbon
Saturday, Sept. 20 • 4 p.m.
Nyberg’s ACE 41st & Minnesota Avenue, Sioux Falls
2025 Mitchell Oktoberfest
Saturday, Sept. 20 • 5:30 p.m.
Downtown, Mitchell
Jason Aldean
Saturday, Sept. 20 • 7 p.m.
Denny Sanford PREMIER Center, Sioux Falls
Fall Parade of Homes
Saturday, Sept. 20 & Sunday, Sept. 21
Sioux Empire, Sioux Falls
2025 Spoken History Cemetery Tour
Monday, Sept. 22 • 5:30 p.m.
Bluff View and Calvary Cemetery, Vermillion