These 10 Unique Festivals In South Dakota Are Something Everyone Should Experience Once

No matter what time of year it might be, there are ALWAYS tons of festivals coming up at some point all over South Dakota. From exciting rodeos to outdoor music events, you have got to experience them yourself! Here are some of the downright best events and festivals in South Dakota that everyone ought to experience at least once:

1. Sturgis Motorcycle Rally - Sturgis

Whether you are a biker, motorcycle enthusiast, or just an observer, the annual motorcycle rally held in Sturgis is quite the sight to behold. Thousands of bikers from all over gather to take a scenic drive through the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota in one huge group ride. There are tons of things for everyone to see and do on main street in Sturgis each year.

2. Laura Ingalls Wilder Pageant - De Smet

Get the show of a lifetime out on the prairie stage. Every year, De Smet holds this pageant that draws hundreds of people to see the history of life in South Dakota played out in front of them in spectacular fashion. Other activities and events are held during the day. Take a trip to the past at this awesome event! Fan of North Dakota's history will be fans of this little event!

3. Wild Bill Days - Deadwood

This is the event that really packs them in to historic Deadwood, SD. Live music performances, shows, vendors, you name it - everything that makes a great festival is at Wild Bill Days. Just prepare for it to be busy!

4. Black Hills Stock Show & Rodeo - Rapid City

One of the biggest stock shows in South Dakota is held annually in Rapid City. Tons of events are held here every year. Rodeo sports like barrel racing and bull riding are some favorites. Hundreds of stock animals are bought and sold here, and there are plenty of vendors selling their wares: everything from delicious food to handmade art. Come to browse or come for the excitement of the rodeo; either way, you're in for a good time. If you're a fan of stock shows, you might also enjoy some of the amazing flea markets in South Dakota.

5. Jazzfest - Sioux Falls

Let the music overtake you at the annual Jazzfest in Sioux Falls. There is live music from local artists and national stars alike, all day. Even if you're not a jazz fan, you should check this one out at least once. It's an amazing experience! This event is one of those things to love about South Dakota we wish was all year long.

6. Fort Sisseton Historical Festival - Lake City

Thousands of people visit this historic state park in South Dakota each year to experience this festival, featuring live shows and plenty of other activities to make the day awesome. Discover history through the amazing performances at Fort Sisseton Historical Festival.

7. Days of '76 Rodeo - Deadwood

All the thrills of a rodeo packed into one awesome festival! The Days of '76 Rodeo is just loaded with awesome events and everything you could ever think of to be at a rodeo. Horses and riders especially show off in some intense competitions that will have you on the edge of your seat. It's just an all-around great time to be had. Besides, rodeos are just one of those things people from South Dakota are good at.

8. Yankton Riverboat Days & Summer Arts Festival - Yankton

Enjoy a summer day out in the sun while browsing through tons of beautiful works of art by many artists and vendors from all over the place. It's also a great way to see picturesque Yankton. Be sure to get there in time for the parade through town at this iconic summer festival in South Dakota.

9. South Dakota State Fair - Huron

The best time of the year for many is the annual state fair, and South Dakota's state fair does not disappoint. All the carnival rides and stand favorites everyone knows and loves and some amazing events take place every year in Huron, South Dakota. Don't forget about the fair food - you'll be stuffed by the end of the day! This is one of those things to do in South Dakota before you die if we ever saw one.

10. Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup - Custer

This really needs to be seen in person to get the true experience, but check out this video of a roundup from a few years ago! The giant herd of bison in Custer State Park is moved annually, and you can get a front-row seat to this exciting event that will put you right back into the old west.

What are some other awesome events and festivals in South Dakota you look forward to every year? Tell us your thoughts in the comments!