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 14, 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

Sioux Falls Stampede @ Clark Cup Finals

May 15–16
Denny Sanford PREMIER Center, Sioux Falls

Following a triumphant thriller against the Fargo Force, the Stampede is bringing the Clark Cup Final back to Sioux Falls for the first time since 2019. Flaunt your Bison pride as they take on the Muskegon Lumberjacks at the two final games of the USHL season.

Open House and Free Fishing Weekend

May 15–17
South Dakota State Parks and Recreation Areas

If entrance fees to our state parks have been your excuse for avoiding quality time outdoors, don’t worry; South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks has got your back. During this annual event, entrance and fishing fees at the parks are waived, and locations across the state will host special programs and activities. Be sure to check your nearest park’s schedule so you don’t miss all that South Dakota’s great outdoors has to offer.

Premiere Playhouse presents: Death of a Salesman

May 15–17 • Variable showtimes
ICON Event Hall, Sioux Falls

Wine, dine, gasp and maybe even cry at Death of a Salesman, a haunting portrait of the American Dream unraveling juxtaposed with a father’s struggle to connect with the world around him. Your evening begins with a full-service dinner before you’re ushered across the hall into a transformed venue for an unexpectedly profound play. Specialty drinks will be available for purchase, including a themed cocktail supporting The Premiere Playhouse’s nonprofit mission. This show is for ages 14 and up.

Sioux Falls Bike Expo

Saturday, May 16 • 10:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.
Active Generations East, Sioux Falls

Seasoned cyclists, novices and curious outsiders alike are encouraged to attend the inaugural bicycle expo near Dawley Farm Village. Programming at the free event includes exhibits with the latest bike tech, local guest speakers and educational workshops. Attendees also are invited to join the official after-party ride, which will depart following the conclusion of the expo.

Lakota Art Day

Saturday, May 16 • 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Racing Magpie, Rapid City

You’re invited to the 4th annual Lakota Art Day for an exploration of creativity and the significance of the number four in Lakota art and culture. Come for a local artist panel, stay for a meal and create with your community.

Malchow Plaza Farmer’s Market

Saturday, May 16 • 8:30 a.m.–noon
Malchow Plaza, Aberdeen

Shop locally made and grown products every Saturday this summer at the Malchow Plaza Farmer’s Market. South Dakota musician Skyler Traxinger will be returning to the stage from 9:30–11:30 a.m.

Jolly Lane Music & Food Trucks

May 16–17 • 1–4 p.m.
Jolly Lane Greenhouse, Rapid City

What happens when booze, beats and food trucks converge on one destination? The folks at Jolly Lane Greenhouse probably know. Feast from nearly one dozen food trucks, try local craft beer and wine and open your ears to new local musical talent each week.

Parade of Homes

May 16–17 • 1–5 p.m.
Sioux Falls metro area

Whether you’re moving to the Sioux Falls metro area or you’re a current resident looking to right size, you won’t want to miss one of the biggest home showcases of the year. Tour nearly 60 homes for free throughout Sioux Falls, Brandon, Tea and Harrisburg. Three standout “feature homes” will be available to see for $5 per adult, per home (cash only). Parade homes can be toured in any order, though there is a custom app available to view home renderings, access builder information and map out your route at siouxempireparadeofhomes.com.

Shinedown: Dance, Kid, Dance Act II

Monday, May 18 • 7 p.m.
Denny Sanford PREMIER Center, Sioux Falls

Shinedown will perform in Sioux Falls ahead of their highly anticipated eighth studio album, EI8HT, arriving May 29. Supporting acts include Coheed & Cambria and Black Stone Cherry. For every ticket sold, $1 will be donated to City of Hope, one of the top-ranked cancer centers in the nation.

Sioux Falls Canaries vs. Chicago Dogs

Friday, May 22 • 7:05 p.m.
The Birdcage, Sioux Falls

Get ready for the opening weekend of Canaries baseball. Before the game, enjoy a lively pre-game party featuring half-price domestic beer from the time gates open (6:05 p.m.) through first pitch. Stick around after the game for a fireworks show to mark the official beginning of the season.