Sioux Falls Holiday Events 2026: Your Local Guide to the Season

One of the best parts of living in Sioux Falls is how the city shows up for the holidays. Whether you're a longtime resident, a new neighbor, or someone considering a move and wondering what the community feels like, the holiday season is a great window into it.

Here are the events worth putting on your calendar.

Parade of Lights: Friday, November 27

The 34th annual First Bank & Trust Parade of Lights takes over downtown on Friday, November 27. This year the parade starts at 6:00 p.m., an hour earlier than in past years. It's free and open to the public. Organizers announced Jeff Eckhoff, Sioux Falls' outgoing planning director, as grand marshal, and Mayor Christine Erickson is making her debut as a float judge, presenting the parade's first-ever "Mayor's Choice Award."

Route and parking details will be posted on the Downtown Sioux Falls website, so check there before you go. Dress warmly and arrive early to claim a good spot.

Downtown Christmas Market: Saturday, December 5

The city's first Downtown Christmas Market is set for Saturday, December 5, from 3:00 to 9:00 p.m. at Cherapa Place Plaza. It's a new addition to the lineup, so it's worth watching for vendor and programming updates as the date gets closer.

Winter Wonderland at The Falls

Winter Wonderland at Falls Park is a Sioux Falls holiday tradition, with tens of thousands of lights and decorated trees filling the park each evening. Last season ran from late November into early January, with a grand opening night that included a light switch-on and fireworks. The 2026 dates weren't confirmed at the time of writing, so check the City of Sioux Falls website for the official schedule.

Past seasons have also included a viewing tower at the Visitor Information Center, a radio soundtrack for watching from your car, and hot cocoa and cider at the overlook café. Confirm what's offered this year before you go.

Ice Skating and More at Jacobson Plaza

Jacobson Plaza has become a winter gathering spot, with an ice skating ribbon and a warming house in past seasons. If skating is on your list, check the city's site for this season's opening date and rental information.

Local Shopping, Lights, and Neighborhood Displays

Beyond the big events, the season brings local holiday markets, concerts at venues like the Washington Pavilion and Orpheum Theater, and neighborhoods that go all out on decorating. A slow evening drive to look at lights is a Sioux Falls tradition in itself.

Why This Matters If You're Thinking About a Move

If you're relocating or house hunting this winter, these events are a good way to experience the city beyond the listing photos. You'll see how neighborhoods come alive, get a feel for downtown, and notice what the community values. Many buyers tell me that evening was when Sioux Falls "clicked."

Before You Go

Event details can change. Confirm dates, times, and any ticket or reservation requirements through the official event pages, such as Downtown Sioux Falls, the City of Sioux Falls, and Experience Sioux Falls.