Every family has their own unique spin on Christmas traditions and must-do activities. So does every town! Sioux Falls is full of holiday fun, and you could make yourself rather busy trying to fit everything in. In fact, check out our calendar! It’s an exhaustive list of all the local events, and it’s jam-packed for the holidays! 

We compiled a list of some of our favorite local holiday traditions! If you are looking for classic Sioux Falls Holiday events/activities, this list is for you!

Winter Wonderland at Falls Park

A true Sioux Falls classic! The lights at Falls Park for the holidays are always worth checking out. With hundreds of lights and the lit-up falls, it’s simply beautiful. Make sure to climb the tower to get a bird’s eye view of the falls and downtown in the distance! This free event runs from November through the beginning of January. 

Downtown Sioux Falls Lights and Winter Weekends

Downtown Sioux Falls is lit up with lights during the holidays! Take a walk enjoying the light displays and holiday shopping. During each weekend in December, be sure to check out the Winter Weekend events! You may just meet Santa Claus or be able to enjoy a free cup of hot cocoa! 

Parade of Lights

Each year, on the Friday after Thanksgiving, Sioux Falls hosts the Parade of Lights! Enjoy a holiday parade through the streets of Downtown. Make sure to attend the tree lighting at the Washington Pavilion as well! It’s the largest tree in Sioux Falls and a great spot for photos all season long. 

The Cathedral of St. Joseph

The Cathedral is a beautiful place to tour year-round, but especially so at Christmas. They also put on a concert series called Christmas at the Cathedral each year. This well-known event is a loved Christmas tradition by many. Their Christmas concert also supports local charities like the Bishop Dudley Hospitality House! 

South Dakota Symphony Orchestra: Christmas with the Symphony 

This ‘Tis the Season Holiday concert is a treat each year! The incredible South Dakota Symphony Orchestra plays all the favorite holiday songs. A favorite part for many who attend is the sing-along at the end! This event is perfect for dressing up in your holiday best while supporting local arts. 

Sioux Falls Lights and Lanes 

Many different homes and neighborhoods around town go all out with holiday decorations! From Lights on Lotta to Luminary Lane, spending an evening or two driving around to see the lights will be well worth your time. 

Sioux Falls Santa 

The area’s most iconic Santa! You can find Sioux Falls Santa all around town during the holiday season. He has been around Sioux Falls for years now and has become a bit of a local celebrity. Find him around town this Christmas! 

These are just a few highlights for area events and holiday activities! Go meet Santa at the Empire Mall, see the Hegg Brothers Holiday show, enjoy the holiday lights at the Country Apple Orchard, or visit Santa’s reindeer at Lewis Drug locations, to name a few more! The Sioux Falls area has so much to offer this time of year. Happy Holidays!