Insider's Guide
Thanksgiving is approaching, and with it, the end of the autumnal season. Downtown Sioux Falls’ annual Parade of Lights is a can’t-miss event for those looking to kick off the winter cheer with a beautiful display of glittering lights, shared with family, friends, and the rest of the Sioux Falls community.
This year, we want you to be prepared.
Where is the Parade?
The floats will travel along Phillips avenue from 13th street all the way up to 5th street!
Where should I park?
Take a look at our helpful map! There is free public parking in various locations along Phillips and Main. If you’re coming from the east side of town, consider parking at 8th and Railroad and cross over the bridge! This way, you can avoid the traffic by the river. Handicap parking is available at 200 N. Phillips Avenue.
What should I do before the Parade?
Start your evening with the Washington Pavilion’s annual tree lighting ceremony at 5:45pm. Complete with live music and cookies, this is sure to get you in the festive mood!
The Parade doesn’t officially begin until 7:30pm, which makes the hour before an amazing time to get a meal and scope out your viewing spot.
On Phillips Avenue alone there are several mouth-watering options.
Craving bar food? JL Beers and Blarney Stone Pub are located right in the middle of the action, serving tasty sandwiches and fast service.
Breakfast for dinner? Phillips Avenue Diner is the classic choice.
Want a place you can dress up for? Minerva’s or Crawford’s will deliver the sophisticated atmosphere and delicious cuisine you desire.
What about somewhere you haven’t been before? Having just opened in the Steel District, Dahlia Kitchen and Big Sioux Burger are more than worth making a reservation for!
The Treasury at the Hotel on Phillips is another excellent possibility, offering a prime location and classy aesthetic.
And during?
Just enjoy! Take in the gorgeous lights and feel the holiday spirit come alive throughout the city.
This is the perfect instagrammable moment for a photo-op.
I’m cold!
It’s bound to be chilly! Dress warmly, wear one more layer than you think you’ll need, and huddle in close with your family and friends.
Fortunately, for those of us not too fond of standing in the wind and frost, businesses are live-streaming the parade from the cozy warmth of their stores. Why not do a little shopping, knowing you’re safe from missing any bit of the parade?
This is a wonderful time to look for this year’s winter fashions at boutiques like MINT + BASIL or Lauriebelles, or Christmas presents at shops like Child’s Play Toys and Zandbroz Variety!
Wait… I don’t want my night to end yet!
That’s just fine, because it certainly shouldn’t! For the 21+ crowd, all of the downtown bars are open and ready to invite you in for an extended night of fun.
You can dance the night away on the (heated!) rooftop of PAve, sip a cocktail at the vibey Hello Hi a few doors down, or, if you’re looking for something a tad more eleganza, stop into Highball for a handcrafted drink.
If you’re not big on alcohol, consider making a stop at Fernson Downtown, where you can have a nightcap from their selection of delicious coffees and teas instead.
Looking for more than just a drink? 81 Arcade could be your ideal destination to play games well into the night.
If you were watching the parade from where it ended, around 5th street, just turn around! Wiley’s Bar is right there – go inside and share a fishbowl with your friends. Or if you’re looking to relax and wind down, stop into The Source for beer on tap.
Mark your calendars – next Friday, November 29th!
We can’t wait to see you there!
