What's going on, South Dakota? | Upcoming events & entertainment

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

Dec 11, 2025

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

Dec. 12 - Dec. 18

Touchmark at All Saints’ Holiday Soiree

Friday, Dec. 12 • 5 p.m.
Touchmark at All Saints’, Sioux Falls

Guests are invited to an upscale evening with friends where a refined holiday dinner features delectable appetizers, seasonal dishes and festive cocktails alongside indulgent desserts. The celebration offers a professional photo shoot and a warm visit from Santa while live music from Tony DePaolo adds to the ambiance. A beautiful candlelit piano concert in the chapel by Debbie Reid brings the night to a graceful close. Formal attire is encouraged to match the elegant setting.

Christmas with Lorie Line 2025

Friday, Dec. 12 • 7 p.m.
Washington Pavilion, Sioux Falls

This solo-piano concert by Lorie Line invites listeners to enjoy a night of gentle holiday melodies and reflective, warm storytelling through music. The setting offers a calm, cozy atmosphere ideal for a quiet holiday-season welcome. It’s a lovely way to spend an evening with family or friends and embrace the season’s spirit.

Gateway’s Christmas Party — Featuring Denham

Friday, Dec. 12 • 9 p.m.
Gateway Lounge, Sioux Falls

Celebrate the season at a lively holiday gathering featuring a high-energy performance by Denham. The nationally touring artist, originally from Sioux Falls and now based in Nashville, will bring his unique mix of pop, rock and soul for an unforgettable night. Guests can enjoy Christmas-themed drinks and festive atmospheres along with the chance to win a premium cooler during the event.

Kevin Farley Comedy

Friday, Dec. 12 & Saturday, Dec. 13
ICON, Sioux Falls

Audience members can enjoy an evening of comedy from a performer known for his work in film, television and sketch entertainment. His background includes memorable appearances in fan-favorite movies and a starring role in a well-loved sitcom. The show offers a chance to experience his energetic style and well-crafted humor in person.

Festival of Wreaths

Friday, Dec. 12 & Saturday, Dec. 13
Edgewood Mitchell Assisted Living, Mitchell

Visitors are welcomed to browse handmade wreaths created by local artisans in a warm, community-driven setting. Guests can enjoy light refreshments, soak up holiday cheer and participate in a silent auction of seasonal décor. It offers a calm, festive environment to celebrate creativity and community.

Charlie Brown Christmas with Studio B

Friday, Dec. 12 & Saturday, Dec. 13
Trio Jazz Club, Sioux Falls

Experience a warm and nostalgic holiday performance as Studio B presents a jazz-infused tribute to the beloved Charlie Brown Christmas story. The ensemble brings the spirit of the season to life through expressive music and charming storytelling that appeals to all ages.

Winter Classic Cornhole Tournament

Friday, Dec. 12 & Saturday, Dec. 13
Dacotah Bank Center, Brookings

This laid-back but competitive cornhole tournament welcomes players of all skill levels for games, camaraderie and friendly rivalry. It offers an informal, fun atmosphere where participants and spectators can enjoy casual indoor entertainment. It’s a great way to gather with friends for simple fun and holiday-season community engagement.

Christmas Without You: Patsy Cline Holiday Tribute

Friday, Dec. 12 & Saturday, Dec. 13
ICON, Sioux Falls

A heartfelt celebration of classic country and holiday spirit comes to life through this Patsy Cline tribute, offering a warm and nostalgic musical experience. The performance blends timeless melodies with seasonal favorites, creating an intimate atmosphere that honors Cline’s signature style.

Dakota Riptide Winter Invite

Friday, Dec. 12 – Sunday, Dec. 14
Mitchell Recreation Center & Indoor Aquatic Center, Mitchell

Swimmers from around the region will gather for a weekend of races filled with competitive spirit and team camaraderie. Spectators are invited to cheer on the athletes and enjoy the energy of the meet. It’s a great opportunity to see rising stars in the water and support local swimming talent.

Hometown Christmas Breakfast

Saturday, Dec. 13 • 10 a.m.
American Legion - Post 23, Garretson

Start the morning with a warm and welcoming community breakfast featuring classic comfort foods. Guests can enjoy pancakes, sausage and biscuits with gravy. Freewill donations will be accepted to support future community activities.

Holiday Vendor Show

Saturday, Dec. 13 • 10 a.m.
The Social, Sioux Falls

Shop local and discover unique handmade décor, crafts, and small-business gifts — a perfect way to find thoughtful holiday presents while supporting local artisans. It’s a festive, friendly market atmosphere that makes holiday shopping personal and community-oriented.

Holiday Market

Saturday, Dec. 13 • 10 a.m.
Falls Overlook Cafe, Sioux Falls

Shoppers are invited to explore a festive marketplace filled with unique gifts and handmade items from local vendors. Visitors can browse a variety of seasonal goods, enjoy the cozy atmosphere and find special treasures for friends and family. The market provides an opportunity to support local artisans while enjoying a relaxed and cheerful holiday setting.

Meet Santa at the Pavilion

Saturday, Dec. 13 • 10 a.m.
Washington Pavilion, Sioux Falls

Children and adults alike are invited to share holiday wishes with Santa and capture a festive photo — a cheerful seasonal tradition in a welcoming public setting. This event creates a relaxed, family-friendly experience for visitors to enjoy a bit of holiday magic indoors. It’s a simple but effective way to bring a festive smile to the season.

Prince of Peace: The Christmas Story — Holiday Musical

Saturday, Dec. 13 • 2 p.m.
Orpheum Theater Center, Sioux Falls

This seasonal musical retells the Christmas story with songs, drama and meaningful narrative, offering an immersive and heartfelt holiday performance for audiences of all ages. It’s a touching way to celebrate tradition, faith, and community during the season.

The Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery Dinner Show

Saturday, Dec. 13 • 6 p.m.
Sheraton Hotel, Sioux Falls

Guests are invited to an immersive dinner-theater experience full of intrigue, clues, and interactive storytelling — perfect for a fun group night out with friends or family, combining dining with entertainment. It’s a different kind of holiday outing blending mystery and social fun.

Humbug

Saturday, Dec. 13 • 7:30 p.m.
Corson Playhouse, Sioux Falls

This modern-twist adaptation of a classic Christmas tale brings drama, humor, and seasonal themes to the stage. Audiences can expect an imaginative production that re-imagines holiday tradition in a fresh way. It’s a festive theatrical experience that blends storytelling with contemporary flavor.

SDSO: ‘Tis the Season!

Saturday, Dec. 13 & Sunday, Dec. 14
Washington Pavilion, Sioux Falls

Fans of orchestral and choral music can gather for a festive seasonal concert featuring holiday classics and stirring arrangements that celebrate the season’s spirit. The concert promises to produce warmth, community and musical grandeur in a rich, traditional format. It’s a beautiful opportunity to gather loved ones for a night of music and cheer.

Shaun Johnson Big Band Holiday Concert

Sunday, Dec. 14 • 4 p.m.
Jewett Theater - NSU, Aberdeen

This 7-piece big band presents a festive concert of original holiday arrangements, blending musical energy with holiday spirit. Listeners can expect a classy and cheerful musical experience, perfect for families or friends seeking cultural entertainment. It’s a warm, community-oriented concert to enjoy the season’s music.

Santa Visits McCrory Gardens

Sunday, Dec. 14 & Monday, Dec. 15
McCrory Gardens, Brookings

Families can look forward to a special visit from Santa at McCrory Gardens as part of holiday-season activities. It’s an opportunity for kids and parents to meet Santa in a festive garden setting and enjoy the charm of the season. The event offers a heartwarming, family-centered moment to celebrate.

Holiday Celebration for Youth

Monday, Dec. 15 • 6 p.m.
Aberdeen Civic Arena, Aberdeen

Children and families are invited for an evening of crafts, games and festive surprises in a community-centered holiday celebration. It offers a welcoming environment for kids to enjoy seasonal fun and socialize with friends. The free event encourages family participation and holiday spirit in a local civic space.

Matthew Mayer in Concert: Holiday and Dreams

Thursday, Dec. 18 • 7 p.m.
Orpheum Theater Center, Sioux Falls

Audiences are invited to experience an evening of evocative piano music blending holiday favorites with original compositions. The performance offers a warm and intimate atmosphere where listeners can relax and connect with the music. Attendees will enjoy a thoughtful mix of melodies that evoke both reflection and seasonal cheer. It is a memorable way to spend time appreciating artistry and the spirit of the season.

29th Annual Christmas at the Cathedral

Thursday, Dec. 18 • 7:30 p.m.
Cathedral of St. Joseph, Sioux Falls

Experience the Christmas story brought to life through inspiring performances and an incredible choir and orchestra. Enjoy beautiful music and moving storytelling inside the breathtaking and historical Cathedral of St. Joseph.

Irving Berlin’s White Christmas — Theatrical Musical

Thursday, Dec. 18 • 7:30 p.m.
Washington Pavilion, Sioux Falls

Audiences are invited to enjoy a classic theatrical experience filled with heartfelt music, graceful choreography and timeless storytelling. This beloved musical brings warmth and nostalgia to the stage as it follows a charming tale of friendship, romance and holiday spirit. Performers deliver elegant harmonies and lively dance numbers that highlight the show’s enduring appeal.