Christmas Markets South Dakota 2025: Complete Guide to Holiday Shopping and Festivities

Winter holiday shopping in South Dakota just hits different when you check out the seasonal markets. These gatherings bring together local artisans, food vendors, and families who want to soak up the season together.

You’ll spot dozens of markets all over the state. Rapid City and Sioux Falls host some big ones, but you’ll also find festive markets in smaller towns like Tea and Harrisburg.

Each spot shows off handmade crafts, regional foods, and live entertainment that feels true to the community.

1)Main Street Square, Rapid City

When the holidays hit, downtown Rapid City really comes alive at Main Street Square. The square turns into a go-to spot where families and visitors experience holiday traditions in the Black Hills.

You can wander through booths packed with locally crafted goods and unique gifts from area artisans. Vendors bring out one-of-a-kind holiday finds that really show off the region’s creative side.

Hot drinks and seasonal snacks are everywhere as you check out the stalls.

The Winter Market at Main Street Square features an outdoor ice rink surrounded by glowing holiday lights. The rink opens at noon, so you get extra time to skate before the main market starts.

The event lines up with the Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony, where the mayor lights up a giant Christmas tree. Since 2011, this tradition has kicked off Rapid City’s holiday season.

Date	Address	Times	Cost	Website
November 30, 2025	526 Main Street, Rapid City, SD 57701	2:00 PM – 6:00 PM	Free admission	visitrapidcity.com

You can browse for free, but each vendor sets their own prices for food and gifts.

2)Falls Park Holiday Light Display, Sioux Falls

Every winter, Falls Park turns into a stunning holiday destination. Over 25 miles of LED lights cover 260 trees and 215 light poles all across the park.

You can check out this free light show nightly from 5 p.m. until midnight. The Winter Wonderland at The Falls runs from late November through early January.

This 21-year tradition grew from a simple display into one of the state’s biggest light shows.

The park’s waterfalls and rocks make a perfect backdrop for the holiday lights. You can walk through the displays or drive through some areas.

The visitor center’s five-story observation tower gives you a bird’s-eye view of the whole show.

Key Details:

• Duration: Plan for at least 2 hours
• Parking: Free on-site parking
• Accessibility: Paved walkways in most areas
• Weather: Bundle up—it gets cold out there

Dates	Times	Location	Cost	Website
November 22, 2025 – January 5, 2026	5 p.m. – Midnight	Falls Park, 131 E Falls Park Dr, Sioux Falls, SD 57104	Free	City of Sioux Falls Events

3)Downtown Christmas Market, Spearfish

If you’re looking for one of South Dakota’s favorite holiday gatherings, check out downtown Spearfish. Every December, the area turns into a winter wonderland.

More than 75 local vendors fill the downtown with handmade crafts, unique gifts, and specialty items from regional artists. The market focuses on supporting local businesses and the community.

Family Activities make this market a hit. Kids love the face painting and craft areas set up just for them.

Santa stops by throughout the day for photos and holiday cheer.

Food vendors serve up hot drinks and seasonal treats. You can grab hot cocoa, fresh baked goods, and other comfort foods while you wander.

The Holiday Market in Spearfish even brings out food trucks and concession stands.

You can easily walk between all the vendors in the downtown area. Holiday lights and decorations make the whole place feel extra festive, especially in the evening.

Everything’s within a few blocks, so it’s easy to explore.

Market Details:

Date	Time	Location	Cost	Nearby Hotels	Website
December 7, 2025	10 AM – 4 PM	Downtown Spearfish, SD	Free admission	booking.com search results	visitspearfish.com

Locals and visitors from all over the Black Hills come out for this event. Parking’s available downtown during the market.

4)Belle Fourche Holiday Light Parade

Every November, the Belle Fourche community turns its downtown into a winter wonderland. Local businesses and organizations build glowing displays that roll down the main streets.

The Belle Fourche Chamber of Commerce puts together this annual parade and families from all over western South Dakota show up.

You’ll see floats from local shops, schools, and community groups. About twenty floats join in every year.

Santa and Mrs. Claus always steal the show.

The route starts at the fire station on National Street. Floats travel down 8th Avenue, then turn onto State Street.

The whole thing usually lasts about an hour.

The night isn’t just about the parade. You can hop on horse-drawn carriage rides through downtown.

The evening wraps up with a tree lighting and fireworks.

Date	Time	Location	Cost	Website
November 29, 2025	6:00 PM – 7:00 PM	Downtown Belle Fourche, National Street	Free	bellefourchechamber.org

Downtown shops stay open late for holiday shopping. Vendors serve hot drinks and treats all evening.

5)Aberdeen Holiday Light Spectacle

Downtown Aberdeen lights up every December with a winter wonderland. The city sets up amazing light displays that draw families from all over.

The big event is on December 8, 2025, when decorated floats cruise down Main Street. The parade runs for about an hour in the evening.

Local businesses and groups join in with themed floats covered in thousands of lights.

You can also wander through neighborhoods around the city. Many residents compete to create the best displays, so walking tours get pretty popular.

Downtown gets professional lighting on lamp posts and trees. Local organizations raise money every year to make these displays even bigger.

The Aberdeen Downtown Association leads holiday decorating efforts.

Date	Location	Time	Cost	Website
December 8, 2025	Main Street, Aberdeen, SD	5:30 PM – 6:30 PM	Free	Visit Aberdeen SD

Visitors looking for a real small-town Christmas vibe will love it here. You can park downtown and walk to the best viewing spots.

6)Deadwood’s Holiday Celebration

Deadwood goes all out for the holidays, turning into a magical winter getaway. The historic town mixes Old West charm with festive celebrations that pull in visitors from all over.

You can try outdoor activities like ice skating and bumper cars at Outlaw Square. The rink opens every day with multiple sessions, so you’ll find a time that works.

Ice skating runs from 12-2pm and 5-7pm. Bumper cars roll from 2-5pm and 7-9pm. Even on Christmas Day, the venue stays open.

Deadwood’s signature event is the community tree lighting. Locals and tourists gather downtown for an evening packed with holiday spirit.

You’ll catch live entertainment, seasonal treats, and activities for all ages.

Getting around is easier during New Year’s Eve. Deadwood runs a trolley from 8 a.m. to 2 a.m., so you can hop between venues without worrying about parking.

Special holiday games bring a Western twist, like the Holiday Ho Ho Horseshoes event. It’s classic horseshoe throwing with a festive spin.

These activities really show off Deadwood’s frontier style while keeping the season bright.

Event Schedule

Event Name	Date	Location	Time	Cost
Community Christmas Tree Lighting	December 6, 2025	Downtown Deadwood	Evening	Free
New Year’s Eve Celebration	December 31, 2025	Historic Deadwood	All day	Varies
Ice Skating and Bumper Cars	December 21-31, 2025	Outlaw Square	12-9pm	Check venue website
Holiday Ho Ho Horseshoes	December 2025	TBD	TBD	TBD

7)Brookings Winter Market

The Brookings Winter Market is honestly one of South Dakota’s top holiday shopping spots. Over 100 local vendors and artisans gather indoors, so you’re never stuck freezing outside.

You’ll find all kinds of handcrafted items during the winter months. The market fills the Brookings Activity Center on Fifth Avenue with everything from clothing and jewelry to candles and home decor.

Local crafters set up booths with their creations, and you’ll spot plenty of unique finds. Food vendors serve up gourmet treats and baked goodies, making it tough not to snack while you shop.

The indoor venue means you can take your time, even when South Dakota’s weather turns brutal. A lot of families hang out for hours, wandering from booth to booth and chatting with the makers.

The Brookings Farmers Market keeps going through winter at the same Activity Center. It’s right next to the Children’s Museum of South Dakota, if you want to make a day of it.

The market runs on the first Saturday and third Thursday each month, from November through April. Local artisans sell gifts that support the community, and there’s something in every price range.

Admission? Totally free. That’s always a plus.

Date	Time	Location	Cost	Nearby Hotels	Website
First Saturday & Third Thursday monthly	9:00 AM – 12:00 PM (Sat), 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM (Thu)	Brookings Activity Center, 320 Fifth Ave, Brookings, SD	Free admission	Hampton Inn & Suites Brookings	Visit Brookings SD

8)Monthly Downtown Community Events

Vermillion puts on community gatherings every first Friday. These events show off local talent and small businesses right in the heart of downtown.

You’ll see new vendors, musicians, and artists each month. It’s never exactly the same twice, and that’s part of the fun.

You can wander through pop-up shops, catch live music, and grab a bite from local food stalls. The vibe is always changing, so you never know what you’ll find.

Local artists set up displays and chat with folks about their work. Families come out because there’s usually something planned for kids, too.

People catch up with neighbors, and visitors get a real taste of local culture. The monthly events bring everyone together in Vermillion’s downtown.

These nights support local entrepreneurs and make for a laid-back, entertaining evening. You can stroll at your own pace, checking out what you like.

Date	Address	Time	Price	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
January 3, 2025	Downtown Vermillion	5 PM – 8 PM	Free	Check booking.com	TBD
February 7, 2025	Downtown Vermillion	5 PM – 8 PM	Free	Check booking.com	TBD
March 7, 2025	Downtown Vermillion	5 PM – 8 PM	Free	Check booking.com	TBD
April 4, 2025	Downtown Vermillion	5 PM – 8 PM	Free	Check booking.com	TBD
May 2, 2025	Downtown Vermillion	5 PM – 8 PM	Free	Check booking.com	TBD
June 6, 2025	Downtown Vermillion	5 PM – 8 PM	Free	Check booking.com	TBD

9) Mitchell’s Holly Jolly Market

Mitchell’s Holly Jolly Market is a holiday tradition that really brings people together. The Mitchell and District Agricultural Society organizes it every year, inviting local artisans and shoppers to connect.

Each year, over 24 vendors fill the place with handcrafted gifts and seasonal decor. You’ll see all kinds of unique items and meet the folks who made them.

Admission is free, though the organizers gladly accept donations. If you chip in, you’re helping the local Food Bank, Toy Drive, and Community Care Fund.

You can spend a couple of hours wandering the stalls, talking with crafters, and searching for something special. The atmosphere feels friendly and relaxed, and you never know what you’ll stumble on.

Date	Location	Hours	Cost
November 19, 2025	Mitchell and District Agricultural Society, Mitchell, SD	10:00 AM – 3:00 PM	Free (donations welcomed)

The Mitchell Christmas market has that small-town holiday vibe. You get to support local makers and pick out gifts with a story.

10) Watertown Holiday Bazaar

Watertown’s Holiday Bazaar gathers local crafters and shoppers right in the city’s cozy downtown. You’ll find dozens of booths with handmade goods by regional artists.

Vendors focus on handmade jewelry, seasonal decorations, and artisan crafts. Every booth has something different, and you’re not going to see these pieces in big box stores.

Artists fill the indoor space with their work, so you’ll have plenty of options for gifts. Food vendors set up throughout the bazaar, offering up holiday cookies, hot chocolate, and other treats.

You can snack while you shop, which is never a bad thing. The choices keep everyone happy, especially if you’re there with family.

Kids get their own fun with craft stations where they can make holiday decorations. Story time sessions pop up, too, with seasonal tales that keep little ones entertained.

The event feels festive, with holiday music and decorations everywhere. There’s just something about small-town celebrations that feels extra special.

Event Details	Information
Dates	November 30 – December 3, 2025
Location	Carnegie Library, Watertown, SD
Hours	5:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Admission	Free
Nearby Hotels	Watertown accommodations on Booking.com

11) Huron’s Christmas Tree Display

Every December, the Huron Christmas Tree Display transforms the Huron Area Community Center into a winter wonderland. This annual event brings decorated evergreens to life, and it’s kind of magical.

Local organizations, schools, and businesses all sponsor their own trees. You can walk among rows of uniquely decorated trees, each with its own theme and style.

Every tree tells a story through its ornaments and lights. Families from all over the region come to see the creative displays.

Kids love checking out the decorations, and adults usually find some inspiration for their own homes. It’s a tradition that brings people together.

The Huron Area Arts Council runs the Christmas tree exhibition at the Huron Event Center.

Event Information

Dates	Location	Hours	Admission
December 1-31, 2025	Huron Area Community Center	9:00 AM – 7:00 PM	Free

12) Pierre’s Holiday Art Market

Pierre’s Holiday Art Market sets up a one-of-a-kind shopping experience for art lovers and anyone searching for gifts. The market takes over city streets, which get decked out for the season.

Local artists show off their handcrafted works all over the market area. You’ll find pottery, paintings, and creative pieces you won’t spot anywhere else.

Market Features:

• Handmade crafts from local artists
• Live entertainment with holiday music
• Food vendors with hot drinks and treats
• Family activities like craft stations for kids

The market stays lively all day. You can shop while listening to holiday tunes and sipping hot cocoa or cider.

Families appreciate the kid-friendly craft stations. Children get to make their own decorations, which helps keep them busy while adults browse.

The Pierre Christmas Market draws folks from all over. It mixes local art, food, and music with South Dakota’s holiday traditions.

Dates	Times	Location	Cost	Nearby Stay	Website
Nov 22 – Dec 26, 2025	10 AM – 6 PM	Main Street, Pierre, SD	Free Admission	Hotels via Booking.com	Local event listings

13)Chamberlain Holiday Market Festival

Every December, Chamberlain turns into a winter celebration hotspot that draws folks from all over South Dakota. The market brings energy to downtown, creating a festive spot where locals and travelers mingle.

Vendors line the streets with booths packed full of handmade crafts and seasonal treats. You’ll spot locally made ornaments, cozy winter clothes, and plenty of baked goodies. Artisans love to show off their talents during this three-day event.

Live music fills the air from outdoor stages. Food trucks roll in with hot chocolate, roasted nuts, and classic holiday meals. Kids stay busy with craft workshops and games set up just for them.

Organizers set up a temporary ice rink for skating. Walking tours wind past the town’s winter decorations and historic buildings. There’s honestly something for every family member.

The market stays free to enter, so anyone can drop by. Most vendors take both cash and cards.

Event Details	Information
Dates	December 15-17, 2025
Location	306 Cherry Lane, Chamberlain, SD
Hours	10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Admission	Free Entry
Nearby Hotels	Cedar Shore Resort, AmericInn Lodge
Website	Visit Chamberlain tourism office

14) Custer’s Traditional Holiday Celebration

When December rolls in, downtown Custer transforms into a cozy winter wonderland. Twinkling lights and festive decorations fill the streets, setting a small-town holiday mood. Local artisans pop up with booths selling handcrafted gifts you probably won’t find anywhere else.

You can hop on a horse-drawn carriage and ride through the decorated streets while carolers sing all the classics. The highlight comes with a community Christmas tree lighting that brings everyone together. Kids line up to meet Santa and whisper their Christmas wishes.

The smell of hot chocolate and fresh baked treats drifts through the event. This free celebration really captures that old-fashioned Christmas spirit. Christmas markets in Custer give visitors a taste of true Black Hills holiday traditions.

Date	Location	Time	Cost	Nearby Lodging	Website
December 13, 2025	Downtown Custer	5:30 PM – 7:00 PM	Free	Search Custer hotels on Booking.com	Visit Custer tourism website

15)Madison Downtown Market

The Madison Downtown Market brings a festive shopping vibe to Wisconsin’s capital. You’ll wander among dozens of vendors selling fresh produce, handmade crafts, and tasty specialty foods. It all happens inside the Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center, right on Lake Mendota.

Local farmers roll in with seasonal veggies and fruit—perfect for holiday recipes. Artisans fill tables with jewelry, pottery, and artwork, so you’re bound to find a unique gift or two. Food vendors keep you warm with hot chocolate and apple cider as you shop.

The market opens on select weekends throughout the holidays. Expect to see plenty of families and visitors exploring together. Shopping indoors means you can forget about Wisconsin’s icy winds for a bit.

Key Market Information:

Dates	Location	Hours	Entry Fee	Nearby Hotels	Website
November 15, 22, December 6, 13, 20, 2025	1 John Nolen Drive, Madison, WI	7:30 AM – 12:00 PM	Free	Graduate Madison, AC Hotel by Marriott Madison Downtown	visitdowntownmadison.com

The lakeside setting gives the venue a beautiful backdrop. Big windows let you look out over the water while you browse. Parking’s available at the convention center, but it fills up fast on busy days.

You can always pair your visit with other downtown Madison sights. The State Capitol is just a few blocks away—worth a look if you’ve got time.

16)Yankton’s Winter Festival

Each December, downtown Yankton hosts a lively winter festival that pulls in families and visitors from across South Dakota. The event fills the streets with energy and holiday cheer.

Local artisans set up booths all over downtown. You can check out handmade gifts, festive decorations, and all sorts of crafts from community members and small businesses.

Kids love the face painting stations and balloon artists. Inflatable attractions keep the little ones entertained. Live music plays on outdoor stages, adding to the festive mood.

Food vendors serve up hot drinks and seasonal snacks. You’ll find hot chocolate, coffee, and local treats to help you warm up. The food options mix classic holiday flavors with regional favorites.

The festival stretches over three days in early December. All the action happens in the downtown district, so it’s easy to wander from one attraction to the next.

Festival Details	Information
Dates	December 1-3, 2025
Times	10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Location	Downtown Yankton, SD
Cost	Free entry, individual items priced separately
Nearby Lodging	Historic Franklin Hotel
Website	Visit Yankton official tourism site

The Christmas celebration brings the community together with something for everyone.

17) Tea’s Christmas Fair

Tea’s Christmas Fair in 2025 brings together artisans, food vendors, and carnival games for a fun-filled event. The celebration runs for four days in June and packs in activities for all ages.

The Mighty Thomas Carnival sets up from June 12 to June 15, offering rides and games galore. You can join community picnics, catch live shows, or sign up for the 5K fun run.

Opening day kicks off with a free picnic at Trinity Lutheran Church from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm on June 12. Folks gather to see the crowning of Ma and Pa Tea Pot. The carnival opens the next day and keeps going from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm.

Local craftspeople display handmade goods, and food vendors serve up treats all through the fair. The event mixes holiday spirit with summer carnival fun, so it’s a bit of a twist on the usual.

Everything happens at Trinity Lutheran Church, 335 W. 1st St. Most activities are free, but some rides and food do cost extra. Families and visitors show up for shopping, games, and a good time.

Date	Address	Time	Cost	Nearby Stay	Website
June 12-15, 2025	335 W. 1st St., Trinity Lutheran Church	5:00 pm – 10:00 pm	Free (varies by activity)	Search Tea, SD hotels on Booking.com	Contact local chamber

18) Harrisburg Holiday Market

The Harrisburg Holiday Market gathers local artisans and crafters for a wintry celebration. You’ll find dozens of booths with handmade items, from knitted scarves to small-batch soaps. The market really focuses on local products that make great gifts.

Entertainment and Activities

Local musicians play throughout the event, filling the market with holiday tunes. Santa stops by for photos with families and kids.

Food and Beverages

Vendors offer warm drinks and seasonal sweets. You can grab a hot chocolate or coffee while you shop. Food trucks usually park near the main market area.

The market takes place outdoors, so bundle up for December weather. Parking’s free and right on site. The event attracts families and holiday shoppers from all over the region.

Details	Information
Dates	December 7-8, 2025
Times	10am-4pm
Location	5900 Linglestown Road, Harrisburg, PA
Cost	Free admission
Nearby Hotels	Hotels near Harrisburg
Website	Contact local tourism office for details

19)Hot Springs Winter Wonderland

Hot Springs lights up every December, turning into a festive winter destination. The town lines its streets with twinkling lights and seasonal decor, giving downtown a special holiday glow.

The Crafters Marketplace features handmade goods from local artisans. You’ll spot gifts that really reflect the area’s style. Over at the Food Court, you can grab seasonal treats and something warm to drink.

Kids can meet Santa for photos and a quick chat. Horse-drawn carriage rides roll through town when the weather cooperates, giving visitors that classic winter experience.

The evening brings Manger Melodies, a concert with a live Nativity scene. It adds a meaningful touch to the celebration. Venues across Hot Springs host these activities.

Date	Address	Times	Cost	Where to Stay	Website
December 2, 2025	Multiple Locations, Hot Springs, SD	9:00 AM – 9:00 PM	Free	Hotels available on Booking.com	Contact local tourism office

Try to plan your visit so you catch both the daytime and evening events. The Christmas celebrations in Hot Springs stick with you long after you leave.

20) Milbank’s Winter Holiday Festival

Milbank’s Winter Holiday Festival brings holiday cheer to town every December. Downtown glows with lights and festive decorations, setting a magical scene.

Local vendors fill booths with handmade gifts and holiday treats. Artisans from the area bring unique crafts, and you’ll find plenty of warm drinks to sip while you shop. Families love the chance to pick out one-of-a-kind presents.

Kids line up to meet Santa Claus and dive into holiday activities. Hot chocolate stands help everyone stay cozy. The festival creates a welcoming space where locals and visitors celebrate together.

The Milbank Hometown Christmas events include a tree lighting and a lighted parade. These draw big crowds to downtown every year.

Festival Details	Information
Dates	December 7-8, 2025
Times	10 AM – 5 PM
Location	1001 East 4th Ave, Milbank, SD
Cost	Free Entry
Nearby Hotels	Check Booking.com for availability
Website	City of Milbank Events