You have heard the song a million times, but have you really ever gone “walking in a winter wonderland?” While the snow atop the Black Hills may look and feel super enchanting (because, well, it really is!), there is nothing that beats the walking in a winter wonderland that is the garden Christmas light displays at McCrory Gardens, the best Christmas lights in South Dakota!

McCrory Gardens are located at 631 22nd Ave. on the campus of South Dakota State University in the town of Brookings.
Google/Carolyne Hart
Without a doubt, the annual McCrory Gardens Garden Glow is one of the most popular Christmas light displays in South Dakota.
This one-of-a-kind winter display is truly nothing short of magical.
McCrory Gardens Facebook
While here, you'll wander through over 25 acres of spectacular display gardens and an additional 45 acres of arboretum space, all of which are made even more beautiful amidst the thousands of colorful lights. In general, it is one of the best places to visit in the state!
Once nighttime arrives, the Garden Glow takes on a storybook-like ambiance.
McCrory Gardens Facebook
If you think about your favorite childhood or family outings in South Dakota, this ranks among the best of them!
There are so many enchanting places here to sit back and take it all in.
Google/Michelle Ellis
If you’re on a date, this is definitely ones of the most romantic places to come together.
This annual event is arguably one of the best holiday photo ops in the state. 
McCrory Gardens Facebook
So be sure to bring your camera and your best sense of holiday adventure!
In addition to the lights, the Garden Glow offers a number of other festive activities. including trolley rides, visits with Santa, tasty hot chocolate, and more.
McCrory Gardens Facebook
Think trolley train rides, visits with Santa, tasty hot chocolate, and more.
Are you still looking for that perfect gift for that special someone?
McCrory Gardens Facebook
You are sure to find it at the McCrory Gardens gift shop, which has everything from locally-made foods to books, home décor, and apparel. 
Although it is magical here, winter is not the only time to visit the McCrory Gardens. 
McCrory Gardens Facebook
The $4.2-million facility Visitor Center here is in and of itself a wonderful cultural stop in South Dakota. You’ll find an auditorium, meeting spaces, and a coffee shop.

So if you’re looking to do Christmas in South Dakota, be sure that the McCrory Gardens Garden Glow is on your holiday itinerary! You can find out more about this and other events on their website, as well as on their Facebook page.

Have you had a chance to visit the McCrory Gardens’ Garden Glow? We would love to see your pictures in the comments!

For even more colorful Christmas fun, be sure to check out the biggest Christmas store in the state: The Christmas Village.

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Holiday Time in South Dakota

Lysa Allman-Baldwin | October 24, 2022

Where can I see other exciting holiday light displays in South Dakota?

Great question. Exciting holiday light displays are dotted all over the state. A few to get you started include the Watertown Optimist Club Winter Wonderland, Sioux Falls Annual Parade of Lights, and the Santa Day Parade of Lights in the town of Wessington.

We are looking for some unique winter activities in South Dakota.

Have you ever tried ice bumper cars? It is one of the most fun things that you can do when the winter season rolls around. In South Dakota, you can enjoy it at the Mitchell Activity Center in the town of Mitchell. It's great fun for kids and adults alike!

Are there any Christmas towns in South Dakota?

Yes! South Dakotans love to celebrate the Christmas holidays and you'll find numerous Christmas towns where you can enjoy the season. Among them are Brandon, Pierre, Huron, Deadwood, Spearfish, Brookings, and Custer, just to name a few. Each offers its own unique take on Christmas in South Dakota so you really can't go wrong at either of them.

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McCrory Gardens Drive, Brookings, SD 57006, USA