It’s Not Christmas in South Dakota Until You Do These 12 Enchanting Things

The Christmas season is such an enchanting time in South Dakota! From exquisite light displays to magical sleigh rides, the holiday spirit is alive and well. The following are 12 South Dakota holiday activities/attractions we feel are the most exciting. While a few of them don’t pertain strictly to South Dakota, we feel that Christmas isn’t as merry without them!

1. Attend your town/city’s local holiday parade.

(Pictured is the 25th Annual Parade of Lights in Downtown Sioux Falls.)

2. Visit Storybook Island in Rapid City.

"Christmas Nights of Light" at Storybook Island is a delightful experience for the whole family. Munch on Christmas goodies, sip on hot chocolate, and enjoy the magic. It's open November 25th-27th, December 2-4, 9-23, 26-31. To meet Santa AND see live reindeer, visit December 9-18. Storybook Island is located at 1301 Sheridan Lake Rd, Rapid City, SD 57702.

3. Enjoy shopping in your town’s (or city’s) magically decorated downtown.

(Pictured above is Main Street in Mitchell.)

4. Experience a Frontier Christmas at Fort Sisseton State Park.

Join this festive celebration and learn how to make traditional Christmas ornaments, old-fashioned ropes, egg-baked bread and more. Visitors can also sit back and enjoy a sleigh or wagon ride. Join in on the festivities December 10th from 10:00 AM-4:00 PM at 11907 434th Ave, Lake City, South Dakota 57247.

5. Go see "Christmas at the Capitol."

Meander through the Capitol Building’s halls and marvel at nearly 90 stunningly decorated Christmas trees. Music and entertainment will be provided as well! "Christmas at the Capitol" is held November 22nd through December 26th at 500 E Capitol Ave, Pierre, SD 57501.

6. Grab your car keys and explore your festive town/city.

We all have our favorite neighborhood lights!

7. Visit your local zoo and marvel at the dazzling lights.

Many of South Dakota’s zoos are magically decorated during the holiday season. The Great Plains Zoo in Sioux Falls, for instance, is hosting "Breakfast with Santa" that also includes an opportunity to meet Santa and Mrs. Clause and, of course, plenty of animals! There will also be delicious food, gorgeous holiday decorations, crafts, exciting activities and a puppet show. The event takes place December 3rd from 8:30 AM-1:00 PM at 805 S Kiwanis Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57104.

8. Go ice-skating at one of the many ice rinks in South Dakota.

(Pictured is the Main Street Square Ice Rink in Downtown Rapid City.)

9. Pay a visit to “Winter Wonderland” at Falls Park.

This incredible display is a beloved annual event in the city of Sioux Falls. For a list of more spectacular light display in South Dakota, click

here.

10. Decorate your Christmas tree with all of the ornaments from your childhood.

Handmade Christmas ornaments just never go out of style.

11. Enjoy a magical ride on the Holiday Express in Hill City.

Take a festive train ride from Hill City to the North Pole to meet Santa! This year an adult only ride with spiked hot cocoa is also available. Holiday Express runs November 25th-26th, December 10th, December 17th-18th and December 22nd-23rd. For more information, click here.

12. Make tons of holiday treats.

The season just isn't the same without some festive, holiday baking.

What are other Christmas activities you look forward to each year in South Dakota (or just in general)? We would love to know what’s on your Christmas bucket list!