Updated for 2026
As November arrives in the Sioux Falls area, families can dive into the season with a blend of festive holiday events, live music, and general family fun. The month offers everything from dazzling light displays to cozy concerts, perfect for making memories as the weather cools down. Sioux Falls truly shines this time of year, whether you’re looking to get into the holiday spirit or simply enjoy a weekend out with the kids. Learn about Classic Sioux Falls Holiday Activities not to be missed.
Are you looking to enjoy more family time at home with the cooler weather? Check out our winter boredom busters! Or maybe you are looking for things to do indoors around Sioux Falls! Read our Indoor Play in the Sioux Falls Area of what to do on a winter day!
Here’s a look at some top events to add to your family calendar this November!
Holiday Events
Santa is coming back to the Empire Mall! Santa will arrive at the Empire Mall for the season on November 14th. There will be fun activities, snacks, and crafts to help celebrate his arrival on the 14th.
Winter Wonderland at Falls Park opens up on November 20th this year! Witness Falls Park transformed into a magical holiday landscape with sparkling lights and festive decorations, creating a beautiful family photo op! The grand opening for the Falls Park Lights is also on the evening of November 20th. Enjoy the lights turning on, and stay for the fireworks!
The Parade of Lights will be held downtown on November 27th. This annual parade lights up the streets with beautifully decorated floats, creating a magical holiday kickoff in downtown Sioux Falls.
Get a run in before Thanksgiving with the Turkey Trail Run 5K with the Sioux Falls Parks and Rec. The run is on November 21st and is held at Pasley Park.
Want another option for a holiday run? The Gobble Wobble 10K will be held also on November 21st this year, with the run starting at Sertoma Park.
Speaking of running, the Jingle Bell Run is back on November 27th! This festive race is brought to you by the Arthritis Foundation and is run at Fawick Park in Sioux Falls.
Music & Theater
Looking for a different kind of show experience? An Evening of Alton Brown will be at The Washington Pavilion on November 4th. This live cooking show will be unlike any other show that you have seen.
Crowder Live will be at the Washington Pavilion on November 8th. Expect an evening full of music and worship. He is also bringing special guest Franni Cash.
Support our young local actors while enjoying the theater! The Spotlight Theater Company will be presenting the musical Circus Stars at the Washington Pavilion November 5th-6th.
For those who want to get into the Christmas spirit with some music, you can enjoy the musical talents of Lorie Lane at the Washington Pavilion on November 29th.
General Family Fun
First Free Friday at the Washington Pavilion this month is set for November 6th. Enjoy free admission to the Science Center and let your kids play and explore inside, out of the cold!
Winter Registration for classes at The Outdoor Campus opens on November 18th for 2026, and class and program booklets are available on November 4th. They offer free classes for everyone in your family.
Also, at The Outdoor Campus, this November is the grand opening of the new expansion! Head over to the campus on November 7th for a tour of the expansion and fun for the whole family.
The Sioux Empire Arts and Crafts Show will be at the Expo Building at the WH Lyon Fairgrounds on November 13th-14th. Come out and find beautifully made arts and crafts from the area.
Be on the lookout this month for our Santa Sightings and Holiday Events posts! We are working hard to compile everything you might need for the Holidays in one convenient place. To find more great events happening this month, make sure to check out our full calendar!
