13 Magical Festivals In South Dakota That Prove Spring Has Sprung

Head to the little town of Freeman for the 60th annual Schmeckfest. This delicious, family-style dinner includes lots of great German/Swiss food. It serves as a fundraiser for Freeman Academy, and has gotten bigger and better every year. March 16th and 17th, and March 23rd and 24th.

For more details, read our full article about Schmeckfest here.

South Dakota's biggest party of the year is held on St. Patrick's Day weekend. Head to Deadwood for the pub crawl on March 16th and 17th from 5 PM to 8 PM.

If you're looking for a more family-friendly St. Patrick's Day, head to Watertown on March 17th. The event includes a 5k race, pancake breakfast, Little Miss Shamrock and Little Leprechaun contest, and parade. The fun starts at 9 AM.

If you love wings, you don't want to miss this festival. Purchase a deluxe ticket that allows you to taste 18 different wings and enjoy unlimited beer, then vote for your favorite. March 24th from 1 PM to 4 PM.

Eggstravaganza is a free event, held on the Saturday before Easter. Meet the Easter Bunny and participate in a huge egg hunt. March 31st from 11 AM to 3 PM.

Bramble Park Zoo hosts the annual Easterpalooza festival on March 31st from 1 PM to 3 PM. Events include an egg hunt, arts and crafts, and an appearance by the Easter bunnies who live at the Zoo.

Is there anything better than delicious food, excellent wine and craft beer? Enjoy all three at the festival on April 6th and 7th.

One of Aberdeen's largest events of the year, Winefest gives participants the opportunity to taste dozens of wines. There's also a silent auction. The event benefits the Boys & Girls Club of Aberdeen Area. April 7th, 6:30 PM to 10 PM.

The Elks Theater in Rapid City hosts this festival that showcases films hosted by National Geographic and The North Face. The festival is held April 21st and 22nd.

Celebrate Earth Day at the Great Plains Zoo in Sioux Falls. The party includes tons of fun, educational activities and plenty of furry friends. April 21st from 1 PM to 4 PM.

This year marks the 9th anniversary of the Black Hills Film Festival, which promotes local independent filmmakers. April 25th through the 29th.

May 3rd is the anniversary of the day that Korczak Ziolkowski moved to the Black Hills and agreed to work as the sculptor for the Crazy Horse Memorial. Come participate in an all-day celebration at the memorial.

The Frühlingsfest & Spring Market is held this year on May 5th from 11 AM to 3 PM. Enjoy live music, tons of great food and craft beer.