North Dakota Festival Calendar in 2025: A Year of Culture, Community, and Celebration
South Dakota’s festivals in 2026

South Dakota’s 2026 festival calendar offers a rich mix of history, outdoor adventure, Native American heritage, art, music, and small-town celebrations. From snow-dusted winter rodeos to world-famous motorcycle rallies and fall harvest traditions, the Mount Rushmore State delivers year-round experiences for residents and visitors alike.

Winter Festivals (January – March)

Black Hills Stock Show & Rodeo – Rapid City

Held annually from late January into early February, the Black Hills Stock Show & Rodeo remains one of the largest livestock and rodeo events in the Upper Midwest. The event combines professional rodeo competitions, ranch rodeos, livestock shows, western art, and family-friendly entertainment.

Winter Community and Arts Events – Sioux Falls

Throughout February and March, Sioux Falls hosts seasonal art exhibitions, live music, theater performances, and winter celebrations, reflecting the city’s growing cultural scene.

Spring Festivals (April – May)

Pasque Flower Festival – Custer State Park

Spring in South Dakota is marked by the blooming of the pasque flower, the state flower. The Pasque Flower Festival celebrates the season with guided nature walks, wildlife education, and outdoor activities in Custer State Park.

University and Community Art Shows – Vermillion

The city of Vermillion, home to the University of South Dakota, hosts spring exhibitions, student showcases, and cultural festivals that highlight emerging artists and regional creativity.

Summer Festivals (June – August)

Siouxland Renaissance Festival – Sioux Falls

Taking place in early summer, the Siouxland Renaissance Festival transforms local parks into a medieval village featuring period costumes, jousting-style performances, crafts, and themed food.

South Dakota Shakespeare Festival – Vermillion

This annual outdoor theater event brings classic Shakespearean plays to life with professional performances, educational workshops, and community programming.

Brookings Summer Arts Festival – Brookings

One of the state’s largest art events, the Brookings Summer Arts Festival draws hundreds of artists and thousands of visitors each July with fine art, live music, food vendors, and family activities.

Independence Day Celebrations – Across the State

Cities such as Brookings, Pierre, and Rapid City host July 4th festivals featuring parades, concerts, and fireworks.

Sturgis Motorcycle Rally – Sturgis

The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, held in early August, is South Dakota’s most internationally recognized event. Riders from around the world gather for concerts, scenic rides through the Black Hills, custom bike shows, and legendary nightlife.

Central States Fair – Rapid City

Running in mid-to-late August, the Central States Fair blends carnival rides, concerts, rodeo events, agricultural exhibits, and classic fair food.

Fall Festivals (September – October)

Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup – Black Hills

Each September, the Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup attracts tens of thousands of spectators who watch cowboys and wranglers guide nearly 1,300 bison during a historic wildlife management event. The roundup is accompanied by arts markets and western-themed celebrations.

Native American Powwows – Statewide

Fall is a key season for traditional powwows across South Dakota, especially on tribal lands and in cities such as Aberdeen and Watertown. These gatherings celebrate Native American dance, music, regalia, and storytelling.

Harvest and Oktoberfest Events

Many communities host fall harvest festivals, craft fairs, and Oktoberfest-style celebrations featuring local food, beer, and live music.

Winter Holidays (November – December)

Christmas at the Capitol – Pierre

The holiday season begins with Christmas at the Capitol in Pierre, where trees decorated by schools and organizations line the state capitol building.

Winter Wonderland at Falls Park – Sioux Falls

Falls Park becomes a holiday attraction with light displays, seasonal music, and winter festivities throughout December.

Special Highlight: America’s 250 in 2026

The year 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the United States, and South Dakota is expected to participate with special exhibitions, historical programs, and large-scale celebrations. Events at Mount Rushmore and other historic sites are anticipated to draw national attention.

Why Visit South Dakota in 2026?

South Dakota’s festivals reflect its identity: rugged landscapes, deep history, strong Native American culture, and welcoming communities. Whether you’re drawn by world-class events like the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, family-friendly art festivals, or once-in-a-lifetime wildlife experiences, 2026 offers a full calendar of reasons to explore the state.

Tip for travelers: Event dates may vary slightly year to year. Visitors should confirm schedules and accommodations early, especially during peak summer months.