What's going on, South Dakota? | Upcoming events & entertainment
Submit your events for The Dakota 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
July 11 - July 17
Slamdakota Death Fest VIII
Friday, July 11 • 7 p.m.
Bigs Bar, Sioux Falls
Slamdakota Death Fest VIII brings a powerful lineup of heavy music to Bigs Bar in Sioux Falls. Fans of extreme metal can expect an intense evening filled with high-energy performances from regional and national acts. This is a gathering for dedicated metalheads who appreciate the raw, unfiltered energy of live underground music.
Salsa Dance Social
Friday, July 11 • 7 p.m.
ICON Event Hall + Lounge, Sioux Falls
Join us for a Salsa dance lesson at 7:15 p.m. followed by open dancing from 8 to 10 p.m. The cost is $20 per person, which includes both the class and an appetizer. Whether you are new to Salsa or have some experience, this event is perfect for everyone looking to learn and have fun. We look forward to teaching you the steps and sharing a great evening of dance.
Chancellor Days
Friday, July 11 & Saturday, July 12
Chancellor Bar & Chancellor Event Center, Chancellor
Chancellor Days returns to the Chancellor Bar and Event Center for a weekend of community celebration. Attendees can enjoy a variety of local entertainment, food, and family-friendly activities. The event offers something for everyone, from live music to small-town hospitality.
Lallycooler Music Festival
Friday, July 11 & Saturday, July 12
Great Bear Ski Valley, Sioux Falls
The Lallycooler Music Festival offers two days of live performances at the scenic Great Bear Ski Valley in Sioux Falls. With a diverse lineup of artists, festival attendees can enjoy a laid-back atmosphere filled with music, nature, and community. This event brings together music lovers from across the region for a memorable summer experience.
Brulé
Friday, July 11 & Saturday, July 12
Levitt at the Falls, Sioux Falls
Join us for a free outdoor concert at Levitt at the Falls featuring Brulé, a groundbreaking group known for merging cultural rock with theatrical instrumentation. Now in their 20th season, their electrifying show blends a 5-piece rock ensemble, traditional Native American instruments, and one of the top Native American dance troupes. Bring a lawn chair, your people, and some snacks—or enjoy food trucks on site. Presented by Midco, Sioux Falls Zoo and Aquarium, and 2025 Season Presenting Sponsor Marketbeat.
Prairie Homecoming
Friday, July 11 - Sunday, July 13
De Smet, South Dakota
De Smet, South Dakota will host cast members from the Little House on the Prairie television show for a weekend of special events and a screening of the new documentary Little House Homecoming. Dean Butler, Wendi Lou Lee, and Charlotte Stewart will be in attendance to share their experiences and connect with fans. Attendees will have opportunities to meet the actors, attend panel discussions and book readings, and enjoy a special luncheon. The event celebrates the lasting legacy of Laura Ingalls Wilder and the stories that brought her world to life on screen.
Whiskey Truth & Flannel
Saturday, July 12 • 7 p.m.
Red Rock Bar & Grill, Brandon
Whiskey Truth & Flannel brings their signature country rock sound to the Red Rock Bar & Grill in Brandon. Known for energetic shows and strong vocals, the band delivers a night of music that blends classic influences with a modern edge. This performance is ideal for fans looking to unwind with good music and a lively crowd.
Drake Springs Lazy 5k
Saturday, July 12 • 7 p.m.
Drake Springs Family Aquatic Center, Sioux Falls
This summer, Sioux Falls Parks and Recreation invites you to take on a unique 5K challenge in the lazy river at Drake Springs Family Aquatic Center. Instead of running on trails, participants will run against the current in the water. If completing 44 laps alone is not appealing, you can team up with a friend for a two- or four-person relay. The event is open to the first 100 registrants, so be sure to sign up early.
Brookings Summer Arts Festival
Saturday, July 12 and Sunday, July 13
Pioneer Park, Brookings
The 54th annual Brookings Summer Arts Festival is welcoming over 175 juried artists and more than 100 additional booths featuring food, living history, artisan food and naturals, and antiques to Pioneer Park. Festival attendees can enjoy free entertainment on three stages, and a lively children’s area complements the festivities. Shuttle buses are available at the SD Ag Museum. No pets, please. Make this unique two-day event one of your South Dakota summer traditions.
Food Truck Tuesday
Tuesday, July 15 • 7 p.m.
Golf Addiction, Sioux Falls
Food Truck Tuesday is a weekly event designed for the whole family to enjoy. There will be six local food trucks offering a variety of options, along with live music from some of the best local artists. Children can have fun in the free bounce house while adults can relax with ice-cold beer. The event takes place every Tuesday night, so mark your calendars and join the community for a fun evening.
Plaza Playtime
Wednesday, July 16 • 9 a.m.
Jacobson Plaza, Sioux Falls
This week, Plaza Playtime features the Bug & Butterfly Bonanza, a fun-filled drop-in program designed for toddlers and preschoolers. Jacobson Plaza provides an ideal environment for young children to explore, learn, and grow. Participants are welcome to come and go within the one- to two-hour window, offering flexibility for families with varying schedules. This program is a great opportunity for early childhood development in a relaxed setting.
McCrossan 70th Anniversary Celebration
Wednesday, July 16 • 5:30 p.m.
McCrossan Boys Ranch, Sioux Falls
Join us as we celebrate 70 years of providing “New Hope for a Better Life.” The afternoon will include wagon rides, guided tours, a barbecue dinner, raffles, games, and more. This event is an opportunity to come together for fun and fellowship while expressing gratitude to everyone who has been part of our journey. We look forward to sharing this special milestone with the community.
Beers & Bingo
Wednesday, July 16 • 6 p.m.
Remedy Brewing Company, Sioux Falls
Head to Remedy Brewing Co. for beers and bingo to help support Casting for Recovery – South Dakota. A program that provides support and healing opportunities for women affected by breast cancer through fly fishing retreats. Bring a friend, grab a drink and help support a great cause.
Silversun Pickups
Thursday, July 17 • 7 p.m.
The District, Sioux Falls
Silversun Pickups take the stage at The District in Sioux Falls for an immersive night of alternative rock. The band is known for their atmospheric sound and engaging live presence. Fans can expect a set that spans their discography, combining new material with crowd favorites.
Show us your Ride
Thursday, July 17 • 7 p.m.
The Den, Sioux Falls
Join us at The Den for our new monthly car show where all types of vehicles are welcome, including classics, imports, and new models. Each month, we will feature a different car, conduct interviews, and share the stories on our unscripted podcast. The event will also include live music, food from Let’s Be Frank Food Truck, and photography by Kendal Laine. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy beautiful cars and connect with other enthusiasts.
Lizzie No
Thursday, July 17 • 7 p.m.
Levitt at the Falls, Sioux Falls
Join us for a free outdoor concert at Levitt at the Falls featuring Lizzie No, a revolutionary folk rock singer-songwriter named one of Rolling Stone’s “Future 25” artists. Their powerful ballad “The Heartbreak Store” earned a nomination for International Song of the Year at the Americana UK Awards, and recent tours have included stops across the U.S. and Europe with Iron & Wine and Dispatch. Bring a lawn chair, your people, and some snacks—or enjoy food trucks on site. Presented by Midwest Railcar, Bluepeak, and 2025 Season Presenting Sponsor Marketbeat.
Upcoming Events
July 18 - July 24
The Brotherhood Tour
Friday, July 18 • 7 p.m.
Levitt at the Falls, Sioux Falls
Children’s Play
Friday, July 18 - Sunday, July 20
Grand Opera House, Pierre
5K Trail Run
Saturday, July 19 • 7:30 a.m.
Blood Run, Granite Iowa
Shamarr Allen
Saturday, July 19 • 7 p.m.
Levitt at the Falls, Sioux Falls
Bingo
Tuesday, July 22 • 5 p.m.
American Legion Post 15, Sioux Falls
Tara Faber
Thursday, July 24 7 p.m.
Levitt at the Falls, Sioux Falls