Activities

5 Ways to Enjoy the Holidays in Downtown Sioux Falls

November 15, 2021

The holiday season is here, and there’s no better place to celebrate than in Downtown Sioux Falls!  Add some holiday magic to your schedule with favorite events and experiences:

1. Kick off the holidays with the Washington Pavilion Christmas Tree Lighting

Get in the holiday spirit as the 40-foot tree lights up the night. The ceremony takes place November 26 at 7pm, giving you plenty of time to…

2. Watch the Parade of Lights

After the Pavilion tree lighting, find your spot along Phillips Ave to watch the 29th annual Parade of Lights, beginning at 7:30pm. See floats decked out in lights, and don’t miss the After Party & Awards Ceremony directly following at the Holiday Inn City Centre.

 3. Snap photos at the brand new MarketBeat Holiday Plaza

Stop by the transformed Federal Courthouse plaza! Take in the larger-than-life Christmas decor, including a herd of deer painted by local artists. Drop a letter to the North Pole in Santa’s mailbox and get a photo by the walk-through ornament. Plaza decor will be installed between Nov 17-23.

4. Enjoy a delightful holiday shopping experience

Find unique and special gifts for everyone on your list. Downtown is bursting with delightful shops with lovely hand-picked items. Shop for others, but don’t forget a treat for yourself! Want shopping inspo? Check out Maddie’s shopping journey, Ceca’s holiday picks, and the DTSF Shopping Itineraries page.

Boost your gifting game with the Downtown Gives coupon book, featuring discounts and deals from 38 downtown businesses. Books are available at participating locations through December 31, 2021.

Shop on Small Business Saturday, November 27 for extra special experiences and offers.

Falls Park Winter Wonderland

5. Visit Winter Wonderland at Falls Park

Sioux Falls’ namesake falls are transformed for the holidays with dazzling lights. Drive through, or park the car and take a snowy stroll!