Milbert's Tortoise ShellSunflowerBaltimore Oriole
 
Calendar of Events
 
January
 
February
 
March
17 St. Patrick’s Day Parade
www.watertownbusinessassociation.com
Email: wba@dailypost.com
Phone: 605-882-8900
Contact: Watertown Business Association, 100 South Maple Suite 100, Watertown , SD 57201
Watertown Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
Irish and Irish for a day participate in this fun, family friendly parade. The event is kicked off with the painting of the Shamrocks in the intersections along Kemp.

21 Sacagawea Unity Fest
www.sacagawearesources.com
Email: depot@depotmusicpros.com
Phone: 605-845-7700
Contact: Sacagawea Leaning Center and Lodge, Lanniko Lee, PO Box 403, Mobridge, SD 57601-0403
Admission: Yes Adults: 5.00 Children: 3.00, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
Sacagawea Unity Fest is the coming together to celebrate 200 years of working together (Sacagawea’s united efforts on the Lewis and Clark Expedition). Held at Sacagawea Learning Center and Lodge. Also held Memorial Day weekend in May.

24 Custer Home and Garden Show
www.custersd.com
Email: info@custersd.com
Phone: 605-673-2244
Contact: Custer Area Chamber, Pam Bilbruck, PO Box 5018, Custer, SD 57730
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: No, Entrance License Req: No
Annual home and garden show held at the Custer Junior High School.

25 Eagle Day
sandlake.fws.gov
Email: sandlake@fws.gov
Phone: 605-885-6320
Contact: US Fish and Wildlife Refuge, Beth Ullenberg, 39650 Sand Lake Drive, Columbia, SD 57433
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
Free family activities and programs including wildlife tours, speakers, kids programs, wildlife viewing including a live Bald Eagle, and more. Takes place at the Sand Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

3/30 - 4/1 Aberdeen Great Outdoors Show
Email: mhanson@nvc.net
Phone: 605-225-7987
Contact: Great Outdoor Show, Mark Hanson, 12759 Richmond Lane, Aberdeen, SD 57401, PO Box 707, Aberdeen, SD 57401
Admission: Yes Adults: $3 Children: $1, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
South Dakota State Taxidermists convention and competition. Displays include outdoor exhibits, sporting goods, home products, food, boats, campers and entertainment. Held at the Barnett Center.

April
4/1 - 9/30 Englewood Trail Seasonal Volksmarch
www.ava.org/clubs/bhva
Email: lctapr@bhws.com
Phone: 605-574-3278
Contact: Black Hills Volkssport Association, Larry Thovson. 12 Gold Dust Road, Hill City, SD 57745-6532
Admission: Yes General: $3 credit $2 walkers, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: Yes
This 6.2-mile volksmarch takes place on the Mickelson Trail. Start walk at Englewood Trailhead. Register at Boondocks Store on Highway 385 near Deadwood.

7 Easter on the Frontier - Walking the Wadsworth Trail, Lake City, Fort Sisseton State Park
1:30 p.m.
www.sdgfp.info
Email: parkinfo@state.sd.us
Phone: 605-448-5474
Contact: South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks, Dave Daberkow, 11907 434th Avenue, Lake City, SD 57247
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
Join us to learn what the officers at Fort Sisseton did during the Easter season. Also join us for a spring hike of the Fort area.

14 Spring Fling in Hot Springs
www.hotsprings-sd.com
Email: hschamber@gwtc.net
Phone: Toll-Free: 800-325-6991
Contact: Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce, Georgia Pomrenke, 801 S 6th Street, Hot Springs, SD 57747
Admission: Yes General: $1, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
An annual home and garden show. Exhibits include a variety of vendor booths, hourly demonstrations, a spring fashion show, and more. Held at the Mueller Civic Center.

21 Walk in the Park: Earth Day Photo Walk - Garretson Palisades State Park
www.sdgfp.info/parks
Email: parkinfo@state.sd.us
Phone: 605-594-3824
Contact: South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks, Marty DeWitt, 25495 485th Avenue, Garretson, SD 57030
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: Yes
Want to learn how to take great outdoor photos? We would love to give you some pointers while walking in the park. Tag along with the Sioux Falls Camera Club.

21 Walk in the Park: Breakfast with the Birds
North Sioux City Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve
www.sdgfp.info
Email: parkinfo@state.sd.us
Phone: 605-232-0873
Contact: Adams Homestead and Nature Prserve, Jody Moats, 272 Westshore Drive, North Sioux City, SD 57049
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
Participants will enjoy a light breakfast while learning some easy tips about birdwatching. Also a walk through the trails of Adams Homestead to identify the resident birds.

21 Bloomin` Bugs and Blossoms - Sioux Falls
www.sertomabutterflyhouse.org
Email: kimh@sfsertomabutterflyhouse.org
Phone: 605-334-9466, 800-349-4152
Contact: Sertoma Butterfly House, Kim Henderson, 4320 S Oxbow Avenue, Sioux Falls, SD 57106
Admission: Yes Adults: $6 Children: $4 (aged 4-12), Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
Crafts for the little ones and for the adults. Learn about indoor planting, transplanting, and bug management. What a great way to get a jump on spring planting.

22 Earth Day - Sioux Falls
www.gpzoo.org
Email: events@gpzoo.org
Phone: 605-367-7003
Contact: Great Plains Zoo, Great Plains Zoo, 805 S Kiwanis Avenue, Sioux Falls, SD 57104
Admission: Yes Adults: $6.80 Children: $3.80, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
Celebrate Earth Day at the Great Plains Zoo from 1 to 4 p.m. Animal encounters and discovery carts are just a few of the exciting things to experience at Earth Day.

May
4/1 - 9/30 Englewood Trail Seasonal Volksmarch
www.ava.org/clubs/bhva
Email: lctapr@bhws.com
Phone: 605-574-3278
Contact: Black Hills Volkssport Association, Larry Thovson. 12 Gold Dust Road, Hill City, SD 57745-6532
Admission: Yes General: $3 credit $2 walkers, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: Yes
This 6.2-mile volksmarch takes place on the Mickelson Trail. Start walk at Englewood Trailhead. Register at Boondocks Store on Highway 385 near Deadwood.

5/1 - 4/1/08 Sculpture Walk
www.sculpturewalksiouxfalls.com
Email: sculpturewalk@sio.midco.net
Phone: 605-339-8359, 605-366-1265
Contact: Sculpture Walk, Jim Clark, P.O. Box 1165, Sioux Falls, SD 57101
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
Fifty original sculptures are displayed in dowtown Sioux Falls for eleven months.

12 Walk in the Park: Hike the Hollow
Lake City, Sica Hollow State Park
2 p.m.
www.sdgfp.info/parks
Phone: 605-448-5474
Contact: SD GF&P, Dave Daberkow, 11907 434th Avenue, Lake City, SD 57247
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: No, Entrance License Req: Yes
Take a guided hike in Sica Hollow State Park, located near Lake City. Meet at 2 p.m. at the Trail of Spirits trailhead. The walk is one-mile long. Rating: 3 on a scale of 5 (5 being the hardest). This is an all-dirt trail and passes through wooded areas. Park entrance license is required.

13 Prairie Village Opening Day - Madison
www.prairievillage.org
Phone: 605-256-3644, Toll-Free: 800-693-3644
Contact: Prairie Historical Society, Historic Prairie Village, PO Box 256, Madison, SD 57042
Admission: Yes Adults: $5 Children: $2 (age 6-12), Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
Historic Prairie Village opens for the season. There are free train rides for mothers on Mother’s Day. The gift shop opens. Camping with electricity and showerhouse are available.

5/15 - 10/31 Pierre Lewis and Clark Volksmarch - Pierre
www.pierrechamber.com
Email: contactus@pierrechamber.com
Phone: Toll-Free: 800-962-2034
Contact: Pierre Chamber of Commerce, PO Box 548, Pierre, SD 57501
Admission: Yes, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
This 10K volksmarch follows a prairie trail around La Framboise Island (called ‘’Good Humored Island’’ by Lewis and Clark). There is an opportunity to purchase a Lewis and Clark Trail patch.

19 Family Nature Craft Day - Garretson, Palisades State Park
www.sdgfp.info/Parks/Regions/Heartland/Palisades.htm
Email: parkinfo@state.sd.us
Phone: 605-594-3824
Contact: South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks, Marty DeWitt, 25495 485th Avenue, Garretson, SD 57030
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: No, Entrance License Req: Yes
Bring your family and enjoy making many different crafts together. This is a day of fun for all ages. Starts at 10 a.m. at Palisades State Park.

26 Walk in the Park: From the Mouths of Birds
Pierre, Farm Island Recreation Area
8 a.m.
www.sdgfp.info
Email: parkinfo@state.sd.us
Phone: 605-773-2885
Contact: South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks, Pat Thompson, 1301 Farm Island Road, Pierre, SD 57501
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: No, Entrance License Req: Yes
Learn about the birds of the area and what their songs sound like. Learn what to look for when birds start to migrate through the area.

27 Walk in the Park: Tour of Fort Randall
Lake Andes, Randall Creek Recreation Area
www.state.sd.us/gfp/sdparks/randall/randall.htm
Email: parkinfo@state.sd.us
Phone: 605-487-7046
Contact: South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks, Randall Creek Recreation Area, 38180 297th Street, Lake Andes, SD 57356
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: Yes
Take a walking tour of Fort Randall and the Fort Randall Chapel. Many activities. Takes place at Randall Creek Recreation Area.

June
4/1 - 9/30 Englewood Trail Seasonal Volksmarch
www.ava.org/clubs/bhva
Email: lctapr@bhws.com
Phone: 605-574-3278
Contact: Black Hills Volkssport Association, Larry Thovson. 12 Gold Dust Road, Hill City, SD 57745-6532
Admission: Yes General: $3 credit $2 walkers, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: Yes
This 6.2-mile volksmarch takes place on the Mickelson Trail. Start walk at Englewood Trailhead. Register at Boondocks Store on Highway 385 near Deadwood.

5/15 - 10/31 Pierre Lewis and Clark Volksmarch - Pierre
www.pierrechamber.com
Email: contactus@pierrechamber.com
Phone: Toll-Free: 800-962-2034
Contact: Pierre Chamber of Commerce, PO Box 548, Pierre, SD 57501
Admission: Yes, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
This 10K volksmarch follows a prairie trail around La Framboise Island (called ‘’Good Humored Island’’ by Lewis and Clark). There is an opportunity to purchase a Lewis and Clark Trail patch.

1 Walk in the Park: Hiking with Lewis and Clark
Yankton, Lewis and Clark Recreation Area
www.sdgfp.info/parks
Email: parkinfo@state.sd.us
Phone: 605-668-2985
Contact: Lewis and Clark Recreation Area, Shane Bertsch, 43349 Highway 52, Yankton, SD 57078
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: No, Entrance License Req: No
Come and learn about when Lewis and Clark were in the area. See what they would have seen while here and learn about the history of the area.

2 Walk in the Park: A Tour of Habitats
Custer, Custer State Park
1 p.m.
www.sdgfp.info
Email: parkinfo@state.sd.us
Phone: 605-255-4515
Contact: South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks, Brad Block, 13329 US Highway 16A, Custer, SD 57730
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: No, Entrance License Req: Yes
From a snag (dead tree) to a rocky outcropping, there are countless habitats within Custer State Park. Hiking participants will expolre the Lover’s Leap Trail for signs of life and witness the ways that nature links itself together.

2 Walk in the Park: Trekking through the Towers
Custer, Custer State Park
www.sdgfp.info
Email: parkinfo@state.sd.us
Phone: 605-255-4515
Contact: South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks, Brad Block, 13329 US Highway 16A, Custer, SD 57730
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: No, Entrance License Req: Yes
Take a guided hike into the midst of the Cathedral Spires along the world-famous Needles Highway of Custer State Park.

2 Walk in the Park: Hiking through Scenic Time
Custer, Custer State Park
www.sdgfp.info
Email: parkinfo@state.sd.us
Phone: 605-255-4515
Contact: South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks, Brad Block, 13329 US Highway 16A, Custer, SD 57730
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: No, Entrance License Req: Yes
While taking a guided hike along Little Devils Tower Trail, participants will learn about the geological histroy of western South Dakota. Due to the strenuous climb, the hike is not recommened for persons with physical limitations or serious health conditions.

3 Walk in the Park: Bird Watching Basics
Fort Pierre, Oahe Downstream Recreation Area
www.sdgfp.info/parks
Email: parkinfo@state.sd.us
Phone: 605-223-7722
Contact: Oahe Downstream Recreation Area, Pat Buscher, 20439 Marina Loop Road, Fort Pierre, SD 57532
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
Come and learn about the birds of the area. Listen to their songs and learn how to identify them. Start time is at 9 a.m. at Oahe Downstream.

10 Walk in the Park: Coffee Club Heart Walk
Fort Pierre, Oahe Downstream Recreation Area
8:30 a.m.
www.sdgfp.info/parks
Email: parkinfo@state.sd.us
Phone: 605-223-7722
Contact: Oahe Downstream Recreation Area, Pat Buscher, 20439 Marina Loop Road, Fort Pierre, SD 57532
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
Come enjoy a walk through the park. Learn about the area and then enjoy a cup of coffee at the Marina. Walk begins at 8:30 a.m. Held June 10th, July 8th and August 11th.

15 - 17 Custer: Becoming an Outdoor Family
Custer, Custer State Park
www.sdgfp.info
Email: parkinfo@state.sd.us
Phone: 605-773-3930
Contact: South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks, Lynn Spomer, 523 E Capital Avenue, Pierre, SD 57501
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: Yes
Is your family new to camping or are you just wanting to learn something new? Come join us at Custer State Park for a fun-filled weekend. Learn such things as outdoor cooking, canoeing, how to use a GPS and more.

16 Walk in the Park: Bird Watching at Breakfast
Bruce, Lake Poinsett Recreation Area
www.sdgfp.info
Email: parkinfo@state.sd.us
Phone: 605-627-5441
Contact: South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks, Randy Pitts, 46109 202nd Street, Bruce, SD 57220
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: Yes
Come and learn about the birds of the park and why they live there. Learn what they look and sound like while hiking in the park area.

16 Walk in the Park: Prairies Gone By
Brandon, Big Sioux Recreation Area
www.sdgfp.info
Email: parkinfo@state.sd.us
Phone: 605-582-7243
Contact: South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks, Jason Bauman, 410 Park Avenue, Brandon, SD 57005
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: Yes
Learn about the history of the area and what it was used for before it become a state park recreation area.

20 Nature Day Camp: Let`s Get Buggy
Hot Springs, Angostura Recreation Area
www.sdgfp.info
Email: parkinfo@state.sd.us
Phone: 605-745-6996
Contact: South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks, Willy Collignon, HC 52 Box 131A, Hot Springs, SD 57747
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: Yes
Great for young children. This program offers several activities relating to insects and how they affect our way of life. Participants should be prepared for a journey into various settings in search of bugs, large or small.

23 Walk in the Park: Liberty Trail Trot and Walk
Lead, George S. Mickelson Trail
www.sdgfp.info
Email: mickelsontrail@state.sd.us
Phone: 605-584-3896
Contact: Mickelson Trail, Shannon Percy, 11361 Nevada Gulch Road, Lead, SD 57754
Admission: Yes, Handicap Access: No, Entrance License Req: Yes
Enjoy a two-mile walk or a four-mile run on the Mickelson Trail. Starts at Sugarloaf and ends almost at Deadwood. Open to men and women of all age groups.

29 - 30 Festival of Presidents Weekend
Rapid City
www.festivalofpresidents.com
Email: cpauljohnson@cs.com
Phone: 605-391-5826
Contact: Festival of Presidents, Russell Dubee, PO Box 624, Rapid City, SD 57709-0624
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
The Festival of Presidents is a two-day event taking place in downtown Rapid City. The festival includes a patriotic music contest with cash prizes, a Friday evening concert, an official tribute to the presidential statues located downtown, a Saturday morning patriotic parade with cash prizes for the top three marching bands, and much more. Giveaways, sales and activities abound. Fun is in store for the whole family during this weekend festival.

July
4/1 - 9/30 Englewood Trail Seasonal Volksmarch
www.ava.org/clubs/bhva
Email: lctapr@bhws.com
Phone: 605-574-3278
Contact: Black Hills Volkssport Association, Larry Thovson. 12 Gold Dust Road, Hill City, SD 57745-6532
Admission: Yes General: $3 credit $2 walkers, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: Yes
This 6.2-mile volksmarch takes place on the Mickelson Trail. Start walk at Englewood Trailhead. Register at Boondocks Store on Highway 385 near Deadwood.

5/15 - 10/31 Pierre Lewis and Clark Volksmarch - Pierre
www.pierrechamber.com
Email: contactus@pierrechamber.com
Phone: Toll-Free: 800-962-2034
Contact: Pierre Chamber of Commerce, PO Box 548, Pierre, SD 57501
Admission: Yes, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
This 10K volksmarch follows a prairie trail around La Framboise Island (called ‘’Good Humored Island’’ by Lewis and Clark). There is an opportunity to purchase a Lewis and Clark Trail patch.

8 Walk in the Park: Coffee Club Heart Walk
Fort Pierre, Oahe Downstream Recreation Area
8:30 a.m.
www.sdgfp.info/parks
Email: parkinfo@state.sd.us
Phone: 605-223-7722
Contact: Oahe Downstream Recreation Area, Pat Buscher, 20439 Marina Loop Road, Fort Pierre, SD 57532
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
Come enjoy a walk through the park. Learn about the area and then enjoy a cup of coffee at the Marina. Walk begins at 8:30 a.m. Held June 10th, July 8th and August 11th.

August
4/1 - 9/30 Englewood Trail Seasonal Volksmarch
www.ava.org/clubs/bhva
Email: lctapr@bhws.com
Phone: 605-574-3278
Contact: Black Hills Volkssport Association, Larry Thovson. 12 Gold Dust Road, Hill City, SD 57745-6532
Admission: Yes General: $3 credit $2 walkers, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: Yes
This 6.2-mile volksmarch takes place on the Mickelson Trail. Start walk at Englewood Trailhead. Register at Boondocks Store on Highway 385 near Deadwood.

5/15 - 10/31 Pierre Lewis and Clark Volksmarch - Pierre
www.pierrechamber.com
Email: contactus@pierrechamber.com
Phone: Toll-Free: 800-962-2034
Contact: Pierre Chamber of Commerce, PO Box 548, Pierre, SD 57501
Admission: Yes, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
This 10K volksmarch follows a prairie trail around La Framboise Island (called ‘’Good Humored Island’’ by Lewis and Clark). There is an opportunity to purchase a Lewis and Clark Trail patch.

3-5 Southeastern South Dakota Threshing Show
Lennox
www.sesd-threshers.org
Phone: 712-737-2671
Contact: SESD Threshermen`s Association, Frank Tullar, 714 Albany North East., Orange City, IA 51041
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
Activities include a tractor pull, threshing show, plowing demonstrations, parades, on-going flea market, and more. Held at Goeman`s Auction Pavilion north of Lennox.

11 Walk in the Park: Befriending Bats
Pierre, Farm Island Recreation Area
www.sdgfp.info/Parks/Regions/OaheSharpe/FarmIsland.htm
Email: parkinfo@state.sd.us
Phone: 605-223-7722
Contact: South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks, Pat Thompson, 1301 Farm Island Road, Pierre, SD 57501
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: No, Entrance License Req: Yes
Take a walk on Farm Island and learn about the bats that live there, how are they helpful and where they live. Starts at 9 p.m. at Farm Island Recreation Area.

11 Walk in the Park: Owl Moon
Yankton, Lewis and Clark Recreation Area
www.sdgfp.info/parks
Email: parkinfo@state.sd.us
Phone: 605-668-2985
Contact: Lewis and Clark Recreation Area, Shane Bertsch, 43349 SD Highway 52, Yankton, SD 57078
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: No, Entrance License Req: No
Come and learn about the animals of the night. Listen to the owls and learn to identify them by their sounds.

11 Gettysburg`s Walk in the Park: Finding Your Way
Gettysburg, West Whitlock Recreation Area
www.sdgfp.info
Email: parkinfo@state.sd.us
Phone: 605-765-9410
Contact: South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks, Ryan Persoon, 16157A West Whitlock Road, Gettysburg, SD 57442
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: Yes
Come and learn about GPS and then try your hand at finding different objects around the park. This event will be held at West Whitlock at 7 p.m.

15 Nature Day Camp: Nature Crafts
Custer, Custer State Park
www.sdgfp.info
Email: parkinfo@state.sd.us
Phone: 605-773-3930
Contact: South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks, Brad Block, 13329 US Highway 16A, Custer, SD 57730
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: Yes
Kids like to be active, they like to use their imagination and they enjoy the challenge of creating something out of nothing. This nature day camp focuses on recycling and how to use everyday things.

18 Walk in the Park: An Evening with the Owls
Fort Pierre, Oahe Downstream Recreation Area
www.state.sd.us/gfp/sdparks/oahedownstream/oahe.htm
Email: parkinfo@state.sd.us
Phone: 605-223-7722
Contact: Oahe Downstream Recreation Area, Pat Buscher, 20439 Marina Loop Road, Fort Pierre, SD 57532
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: No, Entrance License Req: Yes
Take a walk at night to see whooo is out and about in the trees. We will discover the types of owls located in the park and what they each sound and look like. Starting at 8:30 p.m.

18 Come Hang with Us...Bat Festival
Custer, Custer State Park
www.sdgfp.info
Email: parkinfo@state.sd.us
Phone: 605-255-4515
Contact: South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks, Brad Block, 13329 US Highway 16A, Custer , SD 57730
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
This event allows participants to learn about bats and the on going research with he various species. Participants will be able to help biologist capture live bats.

25 Walk in the Park: Shannon`s Survival Hike
Yankton, Lewis and Clark Recreation Area
www.sdgfp.info
Email: shane.bertsch@state.sd.us
Phone: 605-668-2985
Contact: South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks, Shane Bertsch, 43349 SD Highway 52, Yankton, SD 57078
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: No, Entrance License Req: Yes
Learn about Private Shannon, who became lost for two weeks near this area while on the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Find out how he survived, what edible plants he encountered. This is a one-mile hike on a nature trail at the Lewis and Clark Recreation Area.

8/31 - 9/2 LifeLight Outdoor Music Festival
Sioux Falls
www.lifelightfest.com
Email: vicki@lifelightfest.com
Phone: 605-338-2847
Contact: LifeLight Communications, Rachelle Greene, PO Box 89327, Sioux Falls, SD 57109
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
Nation’s largest free outdoor Christian music festival. Held annually Labor Day weekend. All styles of music, exhibition sports, children’s activities, seminars, extreme games, merchandise vendors, on site camping (fee), water park and adventure land activities, paintball, batting cage, and more.

September
4/1 - 9/30 Englewood Trail Seasonal Volksmarch
www.ava.org/clubs/bhva
Email: lctapr@bhws.com
Phone: 605-574-3278
Contact: Black Hills Volkssport Association, Larry Thovson. 12 Gold Dust Road, Hill City, SD 57745-6532
Admission: Yes General: $3 credit $2 walkers, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: Yes
This 6.2-mile volksmarch takes place on the Mickelson Trail. Start walk at Englewood Trailhead. Register at Boondocks Store on Highway 385 near Deadwood.

5/15 - 10/31 Pierre Lewis and Clark Volksmarch - Pierre
www.pierrechamber.com
Email: contactus@pierrechamber.com
Phone: Toll-Free: 800-962-2034
Contact: Pierre Chamber of Commerce, PO Box 548, Pierre, SD 57501
Admission: Yes, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
This 10K volksmarch follows a prairie trail around La Framboise Island (called ‘’Good Humored Island’’ by Lewis and Clark). There is an opportunity to purchase a Lewis and Clark Trail patch.

8/31 - 9/2 LifeLight Outdoor Music Festival
Sioux Falls
www.lifelightfest.com
Email: vicki@lifelightfest.com
Phone: 605-338-2847
Contact: LifeLight Communications, Rachelle Greene, PO Box 89327, Sioux Falls, SD 57109
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
Nation’s largest free outdoor Christian music festival. Held annually Labor Day weekend. All styles of music, exhibition sports, children’s activities, seminars, extreme games, merchandise vendors, on site camping (fee), water park and adventure land activities, paintball, batting cage, and more.

1 Walk in the Park: Dessert Hike
Platte, Snake Creek Recreation Area
www.sdgfp.info/parks/Regions/Heartland/SnakeCreek.htm
Email: parkinfo@state.sd.us
Phone: 605-337-2587
Contact: Snake Creek Recreation Area, Dave Enke, 35316 SD Highway 44, Platte, SD 57369
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: Yes
Come take a walk and learn about the area. What the history is and why the park was created. Also enjoy some dessert as we show you how to do some outdoor cooking. Starts at 6 p.m.

8 Beef `n Fun Day and Threshing Bee
Mobridge
www.mobridge.org
Phone: 605-845-2055
Contact: Mobridge Chamber of Commerce, Margie Reinbold, PO Box 443, Mobridge, SD 57601
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
Activities include a craft fair, children`s games, ranch rodeo, threshing bee, car and motorcycle show, a free beef barbecue feed and more. Held at the Klein Museum and the Mobridge Rodeo Grounds.

9 September in the Park®
Howard
www.septemberinthepark.com
Email: nancy@winker.net
Phone: 605-485-2698
Contact: September in the Park®, Nancy Winker, PO Box 523 , Howard, SD 57349
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
Annual event featuring arts and 100 craft booths, food vendors, music, jugglers, clowns, evening entertainment and much more. Held at the Miner County Fairgrounds. Outdoor movie theatre held at sundown the night before.

14-16 Mickelson Trail Trek
Lead, George S. Mickelson Trail
7 a.m.
www.sdgfp.info
Email: parkinfo@state.sd.us
Phone: 605-584-3896
Contact: South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks, Shannon Percy, 11361 Nevada Gulch Road, Lead, SD 57754
Admission: Yes, Handicap Access: No, Entrance License Req: No
This annual, three-day event began in 1997. Enjoy a trailride that covers the entire Mickelson Trail through the heart of the Black Hills. Cyclists ride the 114-mile trail and enjoy the scenic valleys, old railroad tunnels and historic mining towns including Lead, Deadwood, Edgemont, Custer and Hill City. (Pre-registration is required for riders.)

16 Walk in the Park: Tree ID with Technology
Lake Preston, Lake Thompson Recreation Area
10 a.m.
www.sdgfp.info
Email: parkinfo@state.sd.us
Phone: 605-847-4893
Contact: Lake Thompson Recreation Area, John Christenson, 21176 Flood Club Road, Lake Preston, SD 57249
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: Yes
Learn how to use a GPS and how to identify trees. Two great skills that you will use for a lifetime. Takes place at Lake Thompson Recreation Area.

22 Walk in the Park: Fall Foliage Hike
Lake City, Sica Hollow State Park
10 a.m.
www.sdgfp.info/Parks/Regions/GlacialLakes/SicaHollow.htm
Email: parkinfo@state.sd.us
Phone: 605-448-5701
Contact: South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks, Dave Daberkow, 11907 434th Avenue, Lake City, SD 57247
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: Yes
Come and take a walk and enjoy the beautiful fall foliage and the great colors of this area. You’ll also hear stories of the past. Starts at 2 p.m. at Sica Hollow State Park.

October
5/15 - 10/31 Pierre Lewis and Clark Volksmarch - Pierre
www.pierrechamber.com
Email: contactus@pierrechamber.com
Phone: Toll-Free: 800-962-2034
Contact: Pierre Chamber of Commerce, PO Box 548, Pierre, SD 57501
Admission: Yes, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
This 10K volksmarch follows a prairie trail around La Framboise Island (called ‘’Good Humored Island’’ by Lewis and Clark). There is an opportunity to purchase a Lewis and Clark Trail patch.

6 Walk in the Park: Candlelight Walk
Canton, Newton Hills State Park
7 p.m.
www.sdgfp.info
Email: parkinfo@state.sd.us
Phone: 605-987-2263
Contact: Newton Hills State Park, Mark Steck, 28771 482nd Avenue, Canton, SD 57013
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: Yes
Take a walk along the paved lower trail at Newton Hills State Park. Walk is lit by candles the entire way. Stop along the way to enjoy music and skits. Great fun for the whole family.

6 FestiFall
Canton, Newton Hills State Park
www.state.sd.us/gfp/sdparks/newton/newton.htm
Email: parkinfo@state.sd.us
Phone: 605-987-2263
Contact: Newton Hills State Park, Mark Steck, 28771 482nd Avenue, Canton, SD 57013
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: Yes
Come join the activities for the whole family. There will be games, pumpkin catapulting, crafts and music. Great fun for the whole family. Held at Newton Hills State Park.

13-14 Habitat Trek: A Workshop for Educators
Custer, Custer State Park
www.sdgfp.info
Email: parkinfo@state.sd.us
Phone: 605-255-4515
Contact: South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks, Brad Block, 13329 US Highway 16A, Custer, SD 57730
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: Yes
Teachers are invited to learn about various habitats in Custer State Park. Using newly created educational knapsacks, the participants will work together as a team toward developing new ideas for field trips in natural settings. Pre-registration is required 605-255-4464.

19-20 Family Halloween Hike
Sioux Falls, Outdoor Campus
www.outdoorcampus.org
Email: toc@state.sd.us
Phone: 605-362-2777
Contact: The Outdoor Campus, Thea Miller Ryan, 4500 S Oxbow Avenue, Sioux Falls, SD 57106-4114
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
Call ahead and reserve a spot for one of the craziest hikes around. This is a non-scary hike for the whole family. Meet the critters in our park and learn about South Dakota’s outdoors while you hike ours trails with a guide. Held at the Outdoor Campus.

27 Walk in the Park: Annual Spooktacular Trail
Brandon, Big Sioux Recreation Area
5 p.m.
www.sdgfp.info
Email: parkinfo@state.sd.us
Phone: 605-582-7243
Contact: South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks, Jason Bauman, 410 Park Avenue, Brandon, SD 57005
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: Yes
Come and enjoy an educational Halloween hike along a paved trail. Learn about the outdoors and get fun saftey items along the way.

27 Witch House
Lake City, Fort Sisseton State Park
www.sdgfp.info
Email: parkinfo@state.sd.us
Phone: 605-448-5474
Contact: South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks, Dave Daberkow, 11545 Northside Drive, Lake City, SD 57247
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: Yes
Come enjoy this Halloween costume party at Fort Sisseton. Let the kids do crafts and take a lantern tour.

28 Walk in the Park: Trick or Treat Trails
Pierre
www.sdgfp.info/parks/Regions/OaheSharpe/LaFramboiseIsland.htm
Email: parkinfo@state.sd.us
Phone: 605-773-2885
Contact: South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks, Pat Thompson, 1301 Farm Island Road, Pierre, SD 57501
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
Bring the whole family for a walk on the island and see the characters of the past, present and future. Also pick up some great treats along the way. Held at 4:30 p.m. on La Framboise Island.

November
16 Winter Wonderland Kick-Off
Sioux Falls
www.siouxfallscvb.com
Email: sjensen@siouxfalls.com
Phone: 605-336-1620
Contact: Sioux Falls Convention and Visitors Bureau, Sherri Jensen, 200 N Phillips Avenue Suite 102, Sioux Falls, SD 57101
Please come join us for the flipping of the switch. Mayor Munson will turn on the lights at 6 p.m. Enjoy the beauty of Falls Park lit up for the holiday season. Santa and Mrs. Claus will make a special visit. Enjoy refreshments and holiday music.

11/16 - 1/1 Winter Wonderland at Falls Park
Sioux Falls
www.siouxfallscvb.com
Email: sjensen@siouxfalls.com
Phone: 605-336-1620
Contact: Sioux Falls Convention and Visitors Bureau, Sherri Jensen, 200 N Phillips Avenue Suite 102, Sioux Falls, SD 57101
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
Enjoy the beauty of Falls Park lit up for the holiday season. Free trolley rides from downtown Sioux Falls to Falls Park. Enjoy the music that fills the park with holiday cheer.

23 Aberdeen Parade of Lights
Aberdeen
www.aberdeendowntown.org
Email: bid@nvc.net
Phone: 605-226-3441
Contact: Aberdeen Downtown Association, Georgia Smith, 224 1/2 S Main Street, Aberdeen, SD 57401
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
Holiday lights twinkle and shine as a parade of beautifully decorated floats herald Santa’s arrival. Hayrides, caroling and children’s activities prior to the parade start.

23 Parade of Lights
Huron
www.huronsd.com
Email: cvb@huronsd.com
Phone: 800-487-6673
Contact: Huron Chamber and Visitors Bureau, Barb Bauer, 15 4th Street SE, Huron, SD 57350
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
This annual holiday parade features more than 40 floats with lights galore traveling through Huron`s downtown area.

24 Festival of Lights Parade
Brookings
www.brookingssd.com
Phone: 605-692-6125
Contact: Chamber of Commerce, Jennifer Lichty, 2308 6th Street, Brookings , SD 57006
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
Come on downtown and enjoy the lights and floats.

24 Festival of Lights Parade
Rapid City
Email: suem@caseypeterson.com
Phone: 605-348-1930
Contact: Festival of Lights, Sue McCormic, PO Box 8172, Rapid City, SD 57709
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
This dazzling nighttime parade through downtown Rapid City includes floats, music and other entries decorated in lights! The glow of horse-drawn carriages and holiday scenes on flatbed trucks brings the community together to celebrate the spirit and magic of the holiday season. The season`s brightest event.

11/26 - 12/10 Brookings Festival of Trees
Brookings
Email: artscouncil@brookings.net
Phone: 605-692-4177
Contact: Brookings Arts Council, Vicki Schuster, 524 Fourth Street, Brookings, SD 57006
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
Each year 22 individuals and/or organizations decorate Christmas trees around a particular theme. Gift certificates are given away to the best youth tree and the best adult tree.

29 Hatchery Holidays
Spearfish
Phone: 605-642-7730
Contact: Booth Society, Inc., Roger E. Blunk, 423 Hatchery Circle, Spearfish, SD 57783.
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
Tours of the historic D.C. Booth house decorated for Christmas shopping. Santa story time around the museum fireplace. Held at the D.C. Booth Historic National Fish Hatchery.

December
11/16 - 1/1 Winter Wonderland at Falls Park
Sioux Falls
www.siouxfallscvb.com
Email: sjensen@siouxfalls.com
Phone: 605-336-1620
Contact: Sioux Falls Convention and Visitors Bureau, Sherri Jensen, 200 N Phillips Avenue Suite 102, Sioux Falls, SD 57101
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
Enjoy the beauty of Falls Park lit up for the holiday season. Free trolley rides from downtown Sioux Falls to Falls Park. Enjoy the music that fills the park with holiday cheer.

11/26 - 12/10 Brookings Festival of Trees
Brookings
www.brookingssd.com
Email: artscouncil@brookings.net
Phone: 605-692-4177
Contact: Brookings Arts Council, Vicki Schuster, 524 Fourth Street, Brookings, SD 57006
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
Each year 22 individuals and/or organizations decorate Christmas trees around a particular theme. Gift certificates are given away to the best youth tree and the best adult tree.

1 Centerville Parade of Lights
Centerville
www.centervillesd.org
Phone: 605-563-2291
Contact: Centerville Chamber of Commerce, Doug Voss, PO Box 266, Centerville, SD 57014
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
This annual parade to celebrate the holidays features beautifully lighted floats.

1 Annual Community Library Open House
Centerville
Email: mary_library@yahoo.com
Phone: 605-563-2540
Contact: Centerville Community Library, Mary Ferwerda, 421 Florida Street, Centerville, SD 57014
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
Open House with refreshments and free entertainment at 7:30 p.m. Held at the Community Library.

2 Brandon Holiday Tour of Homes
Brandon
www.brandonsd.com
Email: brancofc@alliancecom.net
Phone: 605-582-7400
Contact: Brandon Valley Area Chamber of Commerce, Susan Carpenter, P.O. Box 182, Brandon, SD 57005
Admission: Yes - Adults: $5.00, Handicap Access: No, Entrance License Req: No
Seven very different local homes all decorated for the holidays open their doors for tours.

3 Annual Christmas Festival
Vermillion
Phone: 605-677-5227
Contact: Friends of the W.H. Over Museum, Maxine Johnson, 414 East Clark, Vermillion, SD 57069
Admission: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
Arts, crafts, talent, Christmas trees, bake sale, hospitality table and more. Held at the W. H. Over Museum.

7-9 Christmas in the Hills
Hot Springs
www.hotsprings-sd.com
Email: khammel@gwtc.net
Phone: 605-745-5642
Contact: Christmas in the Hills, Kathy Hammel, RR 1 Box 108, Hot Springs, SD 57747
Admission: Yes - Adults: $1 or can of food Children: Free, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
Christmas tree lighting ceremony, parade of lights, craft fair, home decorating contest, children`s activities, tour of homes, living nativity, and more. Held at the Mueller Civic Center and other locations in Hot Springs.

8 Winged Wonderland
Sioux Falls
www.sertomabutterflyhouse.org
Email: kimh@sfsertomabutterflyhouse.org
Phone: 605-334-9466 or Toll-Free: 800-349-4152
Contact: Sertoma Butterfly House, Kim Henderson, 4320 Oxbow Avenue, Sioux Falls, SD 57106
Admission: Yes - Adults: $6 Children: $4 (aged 4-12), Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
Start a new holiday tradition at the Sertoma Butterfly House. Come and make a butterfly ornament and a butterfly gift bag. You can also enjoy a puppet show, festive decorations, holiday treats and even finish your holiday shopping at our gift shop. Held from 12 noon until 3 p.m.

15-31 Jingle in the Jungle at Reptile Gardens
Rapid City
www.reptilegardens.com
Phone: 605-342-5873
Contact: Reptile Gardens, John Brockelsby, PO Box 620, Rapid City, SD 57709
Admission: Yes - Adults: $6 Children: $3, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
Reptile Gardens fills their sky dome with more than 1,000 poinsettias and 20,000 lights. It is absolutely beautiful.

31 First Night Sioux Falls
Sioux Falls
www.firstnightsiouxfalls.org
Email: info@firstnightsiouxfalls.org
Phone: 605-521-9406
Contact: First Night Sioux Falls, Shannon Barnes, 2201 West 6th Street # 314, Sioux Falls, SD 57104
Admission: Yes - Adults: $6 Children: $6, Handicap Access: Yes, Entrance License Req: No
First Night is a city-wide, non-alcoholic New Year’s Eve celebration that features visual and performing arts in numerous venues across the city. Includes a childrens’ festival of music, theatre, books and puppet shows. Includes a downtown parade and a grand finale with midnight fireworks. Celebrate the arts while you ring in the New Year with family and friends.