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

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

Apr 09, 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

April 10–16

First Premier Bank PBR

April 10–12
Denny Sanford Premier Center, Sioux Falls

If you’re looking for a thrilling experience where both life and limb are on the line, then you won’t want to miss this weekend’s return of professional Bull Riding to the Denny. Autograph signing with the riders will be available at concourse booths prior to the event.

Zwarte

Friday, April 10 • 8–10:30 p.m.
South Dakota Military Heritage Alliance, Sioux Falls

Once considered among the most popular Midwest club bands in the ’80s and ’90s, South Dakota-based Zwarte is coming back to celebrate its rock hits while paying homage to the loss of one of its founding members, Randall Zwarte. Special musical guests include Judd Hoos and Jessie G.

Turtle Soup

Friday, April 10 • 12–1 p.m.
The Journey Museum, Rapid City

Join Justin Horn as he traces the adventures of Lt. G.K. Warren, an early explorer of the American West. From mapping the Missouri and Yellowstone Rivers to exploring the Black Hills and later playing a key role in the Union victory at Gettysburg, Warren’s story reveals both the achievements and struggles of a remarkable 19th-century figure. Soup served. Tickets range from $9 to $14.

Unequally Joked – A Comedy Night for Couples

Friday, April 10 • 7–9 p.m.
First Christian Reformed, Sioux Falls

Laugh off the awkwardness at a playful and honest couples comedy show. It’s part comedy, part group therapy, and all fun. The event is hosted by Matt Sharpe with a feature performance from Rick Vuyst and headliner Brian Atkinson. Dinner and childcare included for $40 per couple.

University of South Dakota Softball vs. North Dakota State

Friday, April 10 • 2–4 p.m.
Nygaard Field, Vermillion

The North and South will have yet another battle for dominance: this time, it’s on the softball diamond. Cheer on your favorite team as the Coyotes seek to defend their turf from the Bison of North Dakota State this Saturday.

Bow Wow for Broadway

Saturday, April 11 • 7–9 p.m.
The Premiere Playhouse, Sioux Falls

The dogs will have their day at the playhouse this Saturday. Join Miss Sioux Falls and the Premiere Playhouse performers for a night of musical hits, local talent, and raffle prizes. Free will donations are encouraged for admission. All proceeds go to supporting the Sioux Falls Area Humane Society.

Downtown Restaurant Week

April 3–17
Downtown Sioux Falls

Take your tastebuds on a tour of Downtown Sioux Falls’ culinary scene. The list of exclusive, chef-crafted dishes includes Minerva’s prix-fixe menu, Blarney Stone’s blue cheese & balsamic sirloin, Chef Lance’s Tuscany filet, Dahlia Kitchen + Bar’s Mexican-inspired three-course meal, Sanaa’s shish-ba-rak, and more.

The Squirrels

March 27–April 18 • Variable showtimes
Catalyst Theatre Company, Rapid City

A changing environment, a rising tide of desperate refugees, artificial scarcity: a fruitful setting for drama anytime. The Squirrels is a classic revenge tragedy complete with forbidden love, whispered treachery, bloody combat—and you guessed it, nut puns. Tickets are $27 per person.

America’s 250th Celebration Concert

Saturday, April 11 • 2 p.m. & 5 p.m.
Oscar Larson Performing Arts Center, Brookings

The SDSU School of Performing Arts presents USA 250: A Patriotic Celebration. Concert times are at 2 and 5 p.m. Admission is free, but tickets must be purchased to attend the event.

Events at Lava’s Coffee

April 2026
Lava’s Coffee, Harrisburg

Experiment with succulents, knit the night away, try your hand at canvas painting or whip out your favorite board game—all with your favorite espresso or latte in hand. Enjoy the variety of activities available throughout the month of April.

Lake Area Technical College Open House

Tuesday, April 14 • 4–5:30 p.m.
Capital City Campus, Pierre

Lake Area Technical College invites you to an open house showcasing its newly remodeled nursing simulation lab. Guests can tour the upgraded facility and experience the latest in simulation technology. The lab features high-tech medical equipment and immersive tools that replicate real-world clinical environments, helping enhance hands-on training for nursing students.

The Rock Orchestra by Candlelight

Wednesday, April 15 • 8 p.m.
Mary W. Sommervold Hall, Sioux Falls

After entertaining 700,000 guests across the UK, USA and Europe, The Rock Orchestra by Candlelight is back in the USA. Prepare for a spellbinding 90-minute program that infuses iconic rock & metal anthems with a haunting energy.