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

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

May 07, 2026

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.

Read to the end to see upcoming events and future events to keep on your radar.

Events this Week

Cody Johnson Live

Friday, May 8 • 7:30 p.m.
Denny Sanford PREMIER Center, Sioux Falls

Touring his new album Banks Of The Trinity, Cody Johnson takes a contemporary approach on traditional country as he tells stories about foundational moments in his life. Banks of the Trinity follows 2023’s Leather, which won the CMA Award for Album of the Year.

Johnny Hastings Trio

May 8–9 • 8–10 p.m.
Tinder Box, Rapid City

Grab your friends and head over to our cigar bar and lounge for a night of live music that’ll get your toes tapping. The Johnny Hastings Trio will be hot and ready to play all your favorite tunes while you enjoy a great smoke and a cold drink.

America 250 Flag Raising Ceremony

Friday, May 8 • 10 a.m.
Pump N Pak, Vermillion

In honor of America’s 250th anniversary, Vermillion will host a South Dakota America 250 Flag Raising Ceremony. The traveling 20-by-30-foot flag will be in Vermillion Friday through Monday.

Avera Race Against Cancer

Saturday, May 9 • Variable start times
Sioux Falls, Aberdeen, Mitchell, Pierre, Yankton and Marshall, MN

The 38^th annual Avera Race Against Cancer takes off Saturday at cities across South Dakota and Minnesota. Avera’s annual run benefit supports patients with all cancer types. Funds support numerous projects, including the Avera Cancer Institute Navigation Center. Be sure to check your local race start time so that you won’t be running late to the big event.

North American Hockey League Central Division Finals

Saturday, May 9 • 7:15 p.m.
Odde Ice Center, Aberdeen

After splitting game two of the finals, the Aberdeen Wings are hungry to break the tie and dominate the central division as they host the final game against the Austin Bruins. This will be a night of NAHL action you won’t want to miss.

Sioux Empire Brass Society 30th Annual Spring Concert

Sunday, May 10 • 3 p.m.
Westminster Presbyterian Church, Sioux Falls

The Sioux Empire’s premiere brass ensemble is debuting a new program created by Scott Shelsta, a native South Dakotan and retired trombonist from the U.S. Army Band, “Pershing’s Own.” Listen and learn about the music from the turn of the (previous) century, performed by Shelsta and the Sioux Empire Brass. Free admission.

Mother’s Day Brunch

Sunday, May 10 • 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Hotel Alex Johnson, Rapid City

The Alex will be renewing the Mother’s Day Brunch Buffet in their ballroom on Sunday. Don’t miss bountiful buffet spreads and a chance to make this Mother’s Day historic in the heart of downtown Rapid City.

Jeopardy Bar League

Thursday, May 14 • 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Cohort Craft Brewery, Rapid City

Have you always wondered how you would fare at the big blue board with Alex Trebek (may he rest in peace)? You’ll have the chance to try your brain at Jeopardy! Bar League, a live trivia competition. Teams of one to six play via smartphones or tablets featuring Jeopardy!, Double Jeopardy!, and Final Jeopardy! rounds with daily doubles and prizes. This experience offers a social, competitive experience with national leaderboards. Admission is free, and all ages and abilities are welcome to attend.

Deadwood’s Craft Beer Fest: Hops and Hogs

May 15–16
Main Street, Deadwood

Craft beer lovers will enjoy Deadwood’s finest at the Hops and Hogs festival. Enjoy craft beer paired with samples of unique bacon dishes. Once the event begins, attendees taste at scheduled locations. Tasting hours are 5–10 p.m. on Friday and 12–6 p.m. on Saturday. Ticket holders receive an event pass, tasting card, schedule, and an open container cup. Admission is limited, and participants must be 21 or older.

Adam Goodge Comedy & Art Show

Friday, May 15 • 7 p.m.
Lucky’s, Sioux Falls

Adam Goodge treads the boundary between visual art and stand-up comedy, combining spoken material with accompanying illustrations. Special guests include local comics Sara Manson and Jacob Womack. Admission is required for entry.