What's going on, South Dakota? | Upcoming events & entertainment
Submit your events for The Dakota in 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. 26 - Oct. 2
Johnny Hastings & Stillhouse Down
Friday, Sept. 26 • 7:30 p.m.
707 Sports Bar, Rapid City
Enjoy an evening of country and Americana music with Johnny Hastings & Stillhouse Down as they bring their heartfelt sound to the stage. Whether you’re a long-time fan or discovering their music for the first time, it’s sure to be a night filled with rhythm, storytelling, and a lively atmosphere perfect for unwinding.
Cinch Playoffs: The Governor’s Cup
Friday, Sept. 26 - Sunday, Sept. 28
Denny Sanford PREMIER Center, Sioux Falls
Professional rodeo athletes will compete for the Governor’s Cup and a purse of more than one million in what is set to be the richest rodeo in South Dakota history. Contestants will include the top four finishers from each event at the Cinch Playoffs in Puyallup, Washington, along with the top eight athletes from the Playoff Series standings. Spectators can look forward to an exciting display of talent and determination.
CZ Area 3 USPSA Championship
Friday, Sept. 26 - Sunday, Sept. 28
Pete Lien & Sons Shooting Sports Complex, Rapid City
Test your speed and precision at the CZ Area 3 USPSA Championship, where competitors from around the region gather to showcase their shooting skills. This multi-day event offers excitement for both participants and spectators with challenging stages and top-tier marksmanship.
Bark in the Park 3K/5k
Saturday, Sept. 27 • 8 a.m.
Pasley Park, Sioux Falls
Bring your dog and lace up your running shoes for a fun-filled morning of movement and community spirit at the 3K/5K event. Whether you’re walking or running, this is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with your furry friend while supporting a cause that benefits animal lovers.
Sioux Falls Walk to End Alzheimer’s
Saturday, Sept. 27 • 8:30 a.m.
Falls Park, Sioux Falls
Gather with others to take meaningful steps toward a world without Alzheimer’s during this community walk. Participants are encouraged to walk in honor of loved ones and help raise awareness and funds for care, support, and ongoing research in the fight against this disease.
Oktoberfest at Fernson
Saturday, Sept. 27 • 11 a.m.
Fernson Downtown, Sioux Falls
Celebrate the season with cold beer, delicious food, and classic Oktoberfest games in a lively downtown atmosphere. This event welcomes everyone looking to relax and enjoy local brews and community fun in a festive environment.
Harvest Stroll
Saturday, Sept. 27 • 11 a.m.
1st Avenue & Main Street, Aberdeen
Experience a day of fall-themed fun at this family-friendly downtown event featuring music, games, and sweet treats. From pumpkins and photo ops to food and activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy while supporting a local museum through donations.
Downtown Throwdown
Saturday, Sept. 27 • 3 p.m.
Vargas Boxing, Sioux Falls
Step into the ring-side excitement as local fighters showcase their skills in a high-energy boxing event. The crowd’s enthusiasm adds to the adrenaline of the matches, making it a thrilling way to support the sport and the athletes who bring it to life.
Suds and Slams
Saturday, Sept. 27 • 6:30 p.m.
Fernson Downtown, Sioux Falls
Cheer on your favorite professional wrestlers in a lively downtown setting where the atmosphere is electric and the entertainment is top-notch. This free event offers an exciting mix of athleticism and theatrics perfect for fans of all ages.
Menopause The Musical 2: Cruising Through ‘The Change’
Saturday, Sept. 27 • 2 and 7 p.m.
The Goss Opera House, Watertown
Laugh along with a new chapter in a beloved story as four women continue their hilarious journey through life and menopause. This musical brings humor, heart, and catchy songs to the stage in a fun performance that resonates with audiences everywhere.
Riverview Pumpkin Festival
Saturday, Sept. 27 & Sunday, Sept. 28
Riverview Christmas Tree Farm, Canton
Families are invited to enjoy a weekend of autumn-themed fun filled with seasonal treats, scenic views and festive activities for all ages. The event offers a variety of attractions including hayrides, a petting zoo and locally grown pumpkins. It’s the perfect opportunity to welcome fall and create lasting memories with loved ones.
Sioux Falls Reptile Expo
Sunday, Sept. 28 • 10 a.m.
Sioux Falls Convention Center, Sioux Falls
Reptile enthusiasts and curious visitors alike can explore a wide selection of fascinating creatures and reptile-related products. Knowledgeable vendors and breeders will be on hand to share insights and answer questions. The event offers a unique experience for those interested in exotic pets and wildlife education.
Jam Against Cancer
Sunday, Sept. 28 • 12 p.m.
The Nickel Spot, Sioux Falls
Experience an afternoon of live music, food and fun at The Nickel Spot in Sioux Falls as we come together to support the fight against cancer. Jam Against Cancer will feature a 50/50 raffle with over 100 raffle baskets and a silent auction, offering plenty of opportunities to win while contributing to a great cause. Enjoy a vibrant atmosphere filled with local talent, delicious food and the chance to make a meaningful impact. This is an event you won’t want to miss, where music and generosity unite for a cure.
Gold Star Family Day
Sunday, Sept. 28 • 1:30 p.m.
Veterans Park, Sioux Falls
Families and community members will gather to honor the sacrifice of those who have lost loved ones in military service. This solemn event provides a space for remembrance, recognition and reflection. It serves as a meaningful tribute to the enduring strength and resilience of Gold Star families.
Sunday Night Blues
Sunday, Sept. 28 • 6 p.m.
Club David, Sioux Falls
Wind down your weekend with soulful tunes at this laid-back blues event featuring talented local musicians. It’s the perfect setting to enjoy good music, good company, and a relaxing end to your Sunday evening.
Autumn Vendor Fair
Monday, Sept. 29 • 12 p.m.
Touchmark at All Saints, Sioux Falls
Browse unique crafts, seasonal goods, and handmade treasures from local vendors at this festive autumn market. It’s a wonderful opportunity to find special gifts or simply enjoy a pleasant afternoon of shopping in a welcoming community space.
Just Jammin’ Around
Tuesday, Sept. 30 • 7 p.m.
The Den, Sioux Falls
Enjoy an open mic night of live acoustic music with local artists sharing original songs and musical favorites. This casual gathering invites everyone to unwind and experience the talent of area musicians in an intimate, friendly setting.
The Banquet’s Annual Chili Fest
Thursday, Oct. 2 • 5 p.m.
ICON Event Hall + Lounge, Sioux Falls
Enjoy a flavorful evening filled with delicious chili, live music, and opportunities to give back. Attendees will sample creative chili recipes from ten talented local chefs while enjoying the sounds of the Crabgrass Crew. The event will also feature a silent auction with exciting items, including a one-day pheasant hunt for three, and a limited raffle offering four chances to win a quarter hog. All proceeds support The Banquet’s ongoing mission to provide food and fellowship to those in need.
Taste of Sioux Falls
Thursday, Oct. 2 • 5:30 p.m.
Canopy by Hilton, Downtown Sioux Falls
Experience an evening of exceptional cuisine and meaningful community support as more than a dozen of Sioux Falls’ top restaurants come together to offer a curated tasting event unlike any other. Guests will enjoy a wide variety of expertly crafted dishes while contributing to a cause that brings public art to the heart of the city. In addition to the culinary experience, raffle tickets offer the chance to win exclusive prize packages valued at up to $2,500, featuring art, fine dining, luxury gifts and unique local experiences. Proceeds from the evening help support ongoing efforts to make art accessible and engaging for all.
Upcoming Events
Oct. 3 - Oct. 9
Citizen Soldier: Secret Songs Tour
Friday, Oct. 3 • 6 p.m.
ICON Event Hall + Lounge, Sioux Falls
Jazz Concert Fundraiser
Friday, Oct. 3 • 7 p.m.
Remedy Brewing Co., Sioux Falls
The Haunted Farm
Friday, Oct. 3 • 7 p.m.
47449 276th Street, Worthing
4 Bands - 1 Night
Friday, Oct. 3 • 7 p.m.
Bigs Bar, Sioux Falls
Wileys Wild West
Friday, Oct. 3 • 10 p.m.
Wileys, Sioux Falls
38th Annual Festival of Bands USA
Saturday, Oct. 4 • 8:30 a.m.
Howard Wood Field, Sioux Falls
Harvest Festival
Saturday, Oct. 4 • 9 a.m.
529 Main Street, Garretson
Fall Fest
Saturday, Oct. 4 • 10 a.m.
Midwest Bible Camp Conference Center, Watertown
The Fall Classic
Saturday, Oct. 4 • 10 a.m.
Main Avenue, Downtown Brookings
4M Expo
Saturday, Oct. 4 • 10 a.m.
South Dakota Mines - Mineral Industries Building, Rapid City
Remodeled Homes Showcase
Saturday, Oct. 4 • 12 p.m.
Sioux Empire, Sioux Falls
Cruiser Car Show
Saturday, Oct. 4 • 1 p.m.
Main Street Square, Downtown Rapid City
Charity Bingo & Brews
Saturday, Oct. 4 • 3 p.m.
Buffalo Ridge Brewing Project, Hartford
Guilty Pleasures Orchestra
Saturday, Oct. 4 • 8 p.m.
707 Sports Bar, Rapid City
The Big WU
Sunday, Oct. 5 • 7 p.m.
ICON Event Hall + Lounge, Sioux Falls
Dakota Pieces Quilt Show
Saturday, Oct. 4 & Sunday, Oct. 5
Sioux Falls Convention Center, Sioux Falls
Midwest Honor Flight: Operation Welcome Home
Tuesday, Oct. 7 • 7 p.m.
Sioux Falls Regional Airport, Sioux Falls
Harvest Fest
Wednesday, Oct. 8 • 5 p.m.
Lutheran Church of Our Redeemer, Watertown
Downtown Brew Walk 2025
Thursday, Oct. 9 • 5 p.m.
Main Street, Aberdeen
