The 15 Most Magical Christmas Light Shows in South Dakota You Can’t Miss in 2025!

Christmas light shows in South Dakota bring families, friends, and travelers together to soak up the holiday spirit. Every year, cities and towns decorate parks and streets—sometimes with simple displays, sometimes with big, colorful setups.

I help readers figure out when and where to catch the best Christmas light shows across the state.

These shows often become traditions for local communities. Visitors come out to enjoy a winter evening under the lights.

I highlight important details about each event so planning your visit to South Dakota’s Christmas light displays in 2025 feels easy.

1) Lights on Lotta

I make a point to visit Lights on Lotta every holiday season. The show pops up at a single home in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

They use synchronized lights and music for effects that are simple but always catch my eye.

Most people find the show easy to get to since it’s tucked in a neighborhood. Cars line up along the street, and families watch from inside, cozy and warm.

The setup isn’t huge, but it draws a steady crowd of locals.

The show changes a bit every year—maybe a new song or a different arrangement. I recommend checking dates and hours before you head out, since times can shift depending on weather or other stuff.

Rating: 4.6 (15 reviews)
Location: 311 W Lotta St, Sioux Falls, SD 57105
Contact: (605) 880-5556

Dates	Times	Location Address	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby (Booking.com)	Website Address
Early Dec–Late Dec (confirm yearly)	Dusk–10pm	311 W Lotta St, Sioux Falls, SD 57105	Free	Nearby Hotels	Google Maps Link

2) Christmas Lights Display

Last winter, I checked out the Christmas Lights Display at Brande Park Circle in Sioux Falls. Several homes join in, decorating lawns, rooftops, and trees.

Each house usually has a theme—sometimes winter, sometimes classic holiday stuff.

Most people drive slowly down the street to see the lights from their cars. There’s space to park if you want to get out and walk around.

The street stays pretty quiet, even in December. No food vendors or kids’ activities here—just the lights.

The area is residential, so the lights are the main event. If you like simple, peaceful Christmas displays, this one is a good pick.

Rating: 4.9 (13 reviews)
Location: 7800 S Brande Park Cir, Sioux Falls, SD 57108

Dates	Times	Address	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
December	After sunset	7800 S Brande Park Cir, Sioux Falls, SD	Free	Hotels in Sioux Falls on Booking.com	N/A

3) Custom Christmas Lighting

I dropped by Custom Christmas Lighting in Sioux Falls to check out their holiday displays and services. They decorate homes and businesses with LED lights, wreaths, and garland.

Their team handles the setup and take-down, so you don’t have to mess with tangled lights.

They work with different local places—banks, churches, hotels, stores. Each display feels unique to the building, with different colors and styles.

Their work always looks neat and put together.

If you’re traveling, check their website for recent photos and info, since displays change from year to year.

Custom Christmas Lighting doesn’t run a public light show, but you can see their setups at partner businesses around Sioux Falls during the holidays.

Rating: 4.8 (11 reviews)
Location: 4521 S Wassom Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57106
Contact: (605) 421-0060
Website: Visit Website

Dates	Times	Location Address	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
Late Nov–Dec 2025*	Varies	4521 S Wassom Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57106	Free*	ClubHouse Hotel & Suites	http://yourxmaslights.com/

*Displays are at different partner locations, not at address above. Public viewing depends on participating venues. Check their website or partners for updates.
Cost and hotel details might change—always confirm before you go.

4) Night Lights Unlimited LLC

Night Lights Unlimited LLC in Sioux Falls has a different twist on holiday lights. They install permanent holiday lighting for homes and businesses, so you don’t have to climb ladders every year.

Their team takes care of everything, from installation to storage. Homeowners just get to enjoy the lights.

They also offer smart lighting systems. You can program your lights to turn on and off at certain times, change colors, or set up schedules for special days.

With their system, you control everything from your phone or device using Wi-Fi.

They do landscape and commercial lighting too. Their smart options make buildings or outdoor spaces stand out during Christmas or any event.

I noticed they also install video security systems to help keep properties safe.

If you want your home to join the Christmas light show scene, Night Lights Unlimited LLC gives you the tools—without all the hassle.

These lighting options work for both homes and businesses, and you can leave them up year-round if you want.

Rating: 5 (32 reviews)
Location: 1313 W Waterstone Dr, Sioux Falls, SD 57108
Contact: (605) 633-5225
Website: Visit Website

5) Sioux Falls Santa

I stopped by Sioux Falls Santa in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, to see how local families celebrate Christmas. Sioux Falls Santa brings live holiday entertainment to private gatherings, company parties, and children’s events.

It isn’t just about meeting Santa. Kids can sit on Santa’s lap, listen to stories, and join in activities that have become holiday traditions around here.

The focus stays on creating a real, joyful Christmas experience.

People usually book Santa’s appearances in advance for both small family events and bigger community gatherings.

More info about upcoming events is on their website, which they update regularly.

Rating: 4.8 (27 reviews)
Location: 1216 W Sunset Dr, Sioux Falls, SD 57105
Contact: (605) 212-1309
Website: Visit Website

Dates	Times	Location Address	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website Address
See website for event updates	Varies	1216 W Sunset Dr, Sioux Falls, SD	Varies	Booking.com Sioux Falls	http://www.siouxfallssanta.com/

6) Falls Park

Every December, I swing by Falls Park in Sioux Falls to see the Christmas lights. The park glows with thousands of lights strung across trees, walkways, and buildings.

Colored lights make the waterfalls look magical—seriously, it’s something you have to see in person.

The lights usually go up in late November and stay on through early January. Visitors can walk around or just drive through after dark.

There’s an observation tower and spots to sit or snap photos. Families and tourists love this place.

Parking is available right at the park. Admission is free, so you really can’t beat it.

Rating: 4.8 (13,161 reviews)
Location: Falls Park, Sioux Falls, SD
Contact: (605) 367-8222
Website: Visit Website

7) McCrory Gardens

I make it a tradition to visit McCrory Gardens each winter for their holiday light display. The gardens belong to South Dakota State University and cover about 25 acres of formal gardens.

For over sixty years, people have come to enjoy the plants and seasonal events.

During Christmas, the gardens put up thousands of lights. Pathways and trees glow in all kinds of colors.

I usually spot a new display or two every year. The gardens host special events during the holidays, sometimes with music or family activities.

Most activities need admission. They offer discounts for youth, seniors, military, and members.

Kids five and under get in free. Hours can change for special events, so I always check their website or call ahead.

Walking paths are accessible, and the spot is easy to get to by car in Brookings. Staff keep the gardens open even when it’s cold, but I’d recommend bundling up for those evening visits.

Rating: 4.7 (474 reviews)
Location: 631 22nd Ave, Brookings, SD 57007
Contact: (605) 688-6707
Website: Visit Website

8) 605 Holiday Lighting

605 Holiday Lighting in Sioux Falls covers both seasonal and permanent lighting. They work with homes and businesses, handling everything from holiday displays to landscape lights.

Their team designs, installs, removes, and stores holiday lights. I like that they take care of the whole process, so it’s pretty much hassle-free for anyone using their service.

They’re an authorized dealer for JellyFish Lighting, which means you can get permanent LED lights with cool features—dimming, color changes, and programmable settings. I can see these coming in handy for all sorts of occasions, not just the holidays.

For Christmas, they offer custom designs and respond quickly if something needs fixing. The staff gives free consultations and quotes before starting work.

After the holidays, they’ll even remove and store your lights, which honestly makes prepping for next year a whole lot easier. They serve Sioux Falls and plenty of nearby towns.

Rating: 5 (13 reviews)
Location: 1501 N Cleveland Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57103
Contact: (605) 951-0054
Website: Visit Website

9) Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Mount Rushmore National Memorial stands out in South Dakota, especially around the holidays. The massive carvings of four former U.S. presidents cut a striking figure against the Black Hills backdrop.

You won’t find a traditional Christmas light show here, but the winter scenery and seasonal touches draw plenty of visitors. When I go, I notice the place feels peaceful and a little magical in the snow.

The crowds thin out during winter, and the views are just as impressive. The memorial stays open all year, so you can walk the paths and take in the sights even during the holiday months.

The visitor center shares the story behind the monument and the people it honors. Even though there aren’t many holiday events, I always pick up something new about American history and spot holiday decorations in the main buildings.

Rating: 4.7 (52,551 reviews)
Location: Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Keystone, SD
Contact: (605) 574-2523
Website: Visit Website

Dates	Times	Location Address	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
Open year-round	5:00 am – 11:00 pm	Keystone, SD 57751	Parking fee only	Stay near Mount Rushmore	https://www.nps.gov/moru/index.htm

10) W. H. Lyon Fairgrounds

W. H. Lyon Fairgrounds hosts a big Christmas light show every December. Families from Sioux Falls and the surrounding area drive in for the event.

You can drive through displays made from thousands of lights. The show usually kicks off in the early evening and runs until about 10 p.m.

Cars move slowly through the fairgrounds, so everyone can enjoy the lights from inside. On some nights, you might catch carolers or pick up holiday treats.

Parking isn’t a problem—the fairgrounds have a big lot and a wide entrance. I find that getting in and out is pretty easy, even when it’s busy.

Some folks stay at hotels nearby to make things more comfortable, which makes sense if you’re coming from out of town.

Dates	Times	Location Address	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
Early December – late December	5:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.	100 N Lyon Blvd, Sioux Falls, SD 57107	Around $10-20 per car	Holiday Inn Sioux Falls, Hampton Inn Sioux Falls	Visit Website

Rating: 4.2 (1766 reviews)
Location: 100 N Lyon Blvd, Sioux Falls, SD 57107
Contact: (605) 367-7178
Website: Visit Website

11) Dakota Holidays

I check Dakota Holidays every year to find Christmas light displays around Sioux Falls. They collect info on local lights, events, and charities for the holiday season.

Their website acts as a handy guide if you want to see holiday displays without driving around aimlessly. Each year, Dakota Holidays updates its listings with addresses and routes for Christmas light shows and lanes.

I use their details to plan self-guided drives or walks through Sioux Falls neighborhoods. They cover central Sioux Falls and some nearby areas too.

The site also keeps me in the loop about local holiday charity projects. It’s a solid starting point if you want to support a cause or just find out what’s happening.

Location: 927 E 8th St, Sioux Falls, SD 57103
Contact: (605) 360-2259
Website: Visit Website

Dates (2025)	Times	Location Address	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
Dec 1 – Dec 31	Evenings (check site)	927 E 8th St, Sioux Falls, SD 57103	Free	Booking.com Hotels in Sioux Falls	dakotaholidays.com

12) Country Apple Orchard & Christmas Tree Farm

Country Apple Orchard & Christmas Tree Farm in Harrisburg puts on a holiday light show every year. The event starts on Black Friday and runs select evenings, with drive-through lights you can enjoy from your car.

Showtimes are 6 pm, 7 pm, and 8 pm, Wednesday through Sunday. The displays have different themes and scenes, creating a really festive vibe.

You can also buy Christmas trees at the orchard, which adds a classic holiday feel. Besides the lights, the farm has a country store where you’ll find baked goods, apples, and other treats in season.

There are family activities outside the holidays, but the light show is the main draw in winter. Parking is onsite, though weekends tend to get busier.

Rating: 4.2 (443 reviews)
Location: 27249 SD-115, Harrisburg, SD 57032
Contact: (605) 743-2424
Website: Visit Website

Dates (2025)	Times	Address	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
Starting Black Friday	6pm, 7pm, 8pm Wed-Sun	27249 SD-115, Harrisburg, SD 57032	Not listed	Hotels in Sioux Falls	http://www.countryappleorchard.com/

13) Holiday Lights on Main

I visited Holiday Lights on Main in Mandan and found it both efficient and friendly. The event sets up each season at Dykshoorn Park, right in the center of town.

The lights and displays are outdoors, so you can stop by whenever you want. The show is part of the community’s effort to bring people together for the holidays.

Local businesses back the event. I saw a lot of families and groups out for a calm, cheerful night.

Sometimes, you’ll find events like “Touch a Truck” or other community gatherings happening nearby. The Mandan Progress Organization manages the light show and other seasonal celebrations.

The displays focus on classic holiday themes. You can walk through the park and get up close to the lights.

Rating: 4.9 (7 reviews)
Location: Dykshoorn Park, 511 W Main St, Mandan, ND 58554
Website: Visit Website

Date(s)	Time	Address	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
Nov-Dec (annual event)	Nighttime hours	Dykshoorn Park, Mandan, ND 58554	Free	Nearby Hotels	mandanprogress.com

14) Storybook Island

I visit Storybook Island in Rapid City every year with my family, and it’s still a favorite for locals and travelers. The park features attractions based on characters and places from children’s books.

You’ll find over 50 play sets and interactive exhibits, so there’s something for everyone. During summer, the park opens daily.

Kids can ride the train or carousel for a small fee. After August 15th, the rides and ice cream shop may change their hours, so I always double-check before heading over.

The park is a non-profit and doesn’t charge admission. They post the rules at the entrance—no outside food, pets, or some types of gear.

There’s a simple ice cream shop inside, plus a gift shop for souvenirs.

Rating: 4.7 (2117 reviews)
Location: 1301 Sheridan Lake Rd, Rapid City, SD 57702
Contact: (605) 342-6357
Website: Visit Website

Dates	Times	Location Address	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website Address
May 24, 2025 – Sep 1, 2025	9am–7pm	1301 Sheridan Lake Rd, Rapid City, SD 57702	Free (rides $3 each)	See hotels	http://storybookisland.org/

15) Holiday Lights at the Fairgrounds

Every year, I swing by Holiday Lights at the Fairgrounds to catch the drive-through light displays. The show lights up the Red River Valley Fairgrounds in West Fargo.

You’ll see huge areas covered in creative light designs—some classic, some a little unexpected. They mix all sorts of shapes and holiday themes, which keeps things interesting.

The event only runs on certain nights in December. Honestly, you’ll want to double-check the fairgrounds website for the latest schedule since dates and hours seem to shift each year.

You drive your own car through the route, so families get to stay warm and cozy the whole time. It’s a pretty relaxed way to enjoy holiday lights, especially if you’re not a fan of the cold.

There’s parking right at the event, which is always a relief. Sometimes the fairgrounds offer extra activities—maybe some entertainment or other seasonal displays, but it really depends on the year.

Rating: 3.7 (14 reviews)
Location: 1805 Main Ave W, West Fargo, ND 58078
Contact: (701) 282-2200
Website: Visit Website

Dates	Times	Location	Cost	Where To Stay Nearby	Website
Select nights in December (see website)	Evenings (see website for hours)	1805 Main Ave W, West Fargo, ND 58078	Ticket required (see website for pricing)	Hotels near Holiday Lights at the Fairgrounds – Booking.com	https://www.redrivervalleyfair.com/