Christmas Markets South Dakota 2025: Complete Guide to Holiday Shopping and Festivities
Table of Contents
- 1 Find the Best Accommodations
- 2 171)Onida Holiday Celebration
- 3 172) Clark Winter Market
- 4 173)Dell Rapids Holiday Fest
- 5 174)Yankton Festive Market
- 6 175) Brookings Winter Showcase
- 7 176)Clear Lake Holiday Market
- 8 177) Redfield Winter Fest
- 9 178)Mina’s Holiday Fest
- 10 179)Wilmot Winter Wonderland
- 11 180)Gregory Holiday Market
Find the Best Accommodations
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171)Onida Holiday Celebration
Every year, Onida turns into a winter wonderland for its annual holiday celebration. Main Street glows with lights and decorations, creating a cozy vibe all over town.
Local artisans line the street with booths full of handmade crafts and fresh-baked treats. You can browse for unique gifts and support small businesses at the same time. The vendor marketplace has everything from wooden ornaments to cookies that smell way too good.
Kids gather when Santa shows up for photos and hands out gifts. Musical performances pop up all weekend, with local choirs singing classic carols. The tree lighting ceremony brings everyone together as the town’s centerpiece lights up the night.
Grab a hot drink and wander between activity stations—it’s a great way to warm up. The event really brings out that small-town community spirit, and even visitors feel welcome. A lot of families come back every year, making it their own tradition.
The festival lasts three days in early December, so you’ve got a few chances to catch the fun. Most of it happens outdoors, so definitely bundle up.
Event Details | Information |
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Dates | December 7-9, 2025 |
Location | Main Street, Onida, SD |
Hours | 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
Admission | Free |
Nearby Lodging | Fort Pierre accommodations |
Website | Contact local chamber |
172) Clark Winter Market
Every December, the Clark Winter Market brings festive energy to this small South Dakota town. Local artisans fill the market with handcrafted items and seasonal treats.
The market pops up in downtown Clark, where you can check out vendor stalls and catch live performances from community choirs and musicians. Honestly, the entertainment helps take the edge off the winter chill.
Family Activities and Entertainment
Santa Claus stops by the market, and kids love sharing their Christmas wishes. Beverage vendors sell hot cocoa and mulled wine, perfect for staying warm as you browse.
Twinkling lights hang between stalls, giving the whole place a magical winter vibe. Local musicians keep the day lively with performances.
Vendor Offerings
Handmade crafts, baked goods, and one-of-a-kind gifts from regional creators fill the stalls. You won’t find these items in big stores—Clark’s artistic community really shows up.
Practical Planning Tips
Dress warm, because everything happens outside. The market stays open no matter the weather, so expect classic South Dakota winter temps.
Dates | Times | Location | Cost | Nearby Lodging | Website |
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December 1-24, 2025 | 10 AM – 6 PM | Clark, SD 57225 | Free Admission | Budget Host Inn, Watertown | Visit Clark SD Tourism |
173)Dell Rapids Holiday Fest
Dell Rapids goes all out for its annual holiday celebration. This winter event brings the community together for two days of seasonal fun. The town feels extra welcoming, and visitors can soak up local crafts and holiday traditions.
Vendor Marketplace
Local artisans set up booths with handmade ornaments, jewelry, and seasonal decorations. Many vendors create holiday-specific items, so you’ll spot things you won’t see any other time of year. The marketplace supports regional creators and gives you great gift options.
Family Activities
Kids get their own entertainment areas. Santa visits for photos and chats with the little ones. Face painting and interactive games keep families busy all day. The Christmas at the Dells celebration offers activities for all ages.
Food and Beverages
Festival food vendors serve up hot chocolate, coffee, and spiced drinks—basically, all the warm comfort you want in winter. Baked goods and holiday snacks come from local food providers.
Tree Lighting Ceremony
The festival kicks off with a community tree lighting. As soon as the lights come on, the whole festival area feels magical. Dell Rapids Christmas festivities keep the seasonal mood going downtown.
Date | Time | Location | Cost | Nearby Accommodation | Website |
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December 2-4, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Dell Rapids City Park | Free | Search Dell Rapids hotels on Booking.com | cityofdellrapids.org |
174)Yankton Festive Market
Downtown Yankton really turns into a winter wonderland for the holidays. The festive market pulls in locals and visitors with its decorated booths and local vendors.
You’ll find handcrafted ornaments, cozy winter clothing, and specialty foods. The market creates a welcoming spot right in the heart of the city.
Local artisans show off their work, and food vendors serve up seasonal treats. Hot chocolate and fresh-baked goodies are everywhere—seriously, it’s hard to resist.
Families have plenty to do. Kids can get their faces painted or pick up balloon animals. Santa’s Workshop is nearby, so children get a chance to meet Santa.
Live music fills the air as local musicians and community groups perform holiday songs. The performances set the mood as you wander between stalls.
The market sits in downtown Yankton, so it’s easy to get around and check out other attractions while you’re there. The Holiday Festival of Lights is also happening around the same time, adding to the festive buzz.
Dates | Times | Location | Cost | Nearby Hotels | Website |
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December 1-24, 2025 | 10 AM – 8 PM | Downtown Yankton, SD | Free Entry | Best Western Kelly Inn | Visit downtown Yankton |
175) Brookings Winter Showcase
Brookings gets a holiday makeover during the Winter Showcase. Local artisans fill downtown with handcrafted items and seasonal decorations.
You’ll find booths packed with homemade crafts and holiday treats. Community vendors bring unique gifts and decorations you won’t see anywhere else. Food stands serve seasonal specialties that help you fight off the December cold.
Live music and performances keep things lively all weekend. Families have activities for every age group. The free admission means everyone can join in.
The showcase runs for three days in early December. Hours are convenient, so you can fit a visit into your schedule. Downtown Brookings has plenty of parking, and everything’s walkable.
Details | Information |
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Dates | December 8-10, 2025 |
Times | 10 AM – 8 PM |
Location | 1321 6th Street Brookings, SD 57006 |
Cost | Free Admission |
Nearby Hotels | Search accommodations on Booking.com |
Website | Contact local visitor bureau for details |
176)Clear Lake Holiday Market
Clear Lake feels extra festive in winter. This South Dakota town hosts a Christmas market that draws in visitors for local crafts and treats.
The market sets up in the town center and attracts families from all over the region. You’ll find handmade items from local artisans—think crafts, decorations, and gift ideas you won’t find in big box stores.
Food stands serve warm drinks and snacks, which honestly, you’ll probably want while shopping. The market really focuses on supporting local businesses and creators.
Families bring their kids for activities just for them. The whole vibe feels more personal than bigger commercial events. Parking’s available close by, so no stress there.
Event Information
Date | Location | Hours | Entry Fee | Nearby Hotels | Website |
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December 7, 2025 | Clear Lake Town Center | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Free | Hampton Inn & Suites Watertown | Visit Clear Lake SD |
December 14, 2025 | Clear Lake Town Center | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Free | Holiday Inn Express Watertown | Visit Clear Lake SD |
December 21, 2025 | Clear Lake Town Center | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Free | Country Inn & Suites Watertown | Visit Clear Lake SD |
The market pops up on three weekends in December. Plan your visit to catch the market and maybe check out other winter activities around town.
177) Redfield Winter Fest
The Redfield Winter Fest brings holiday cheer to this small South Dakota town every December. Local craft vendors and artisans set up shop with handmade gifts, and food stalls dish out warm treats for the chilly weather.
Live music and dance performances keep visitors of all ages entertained. Kids can meet Santa Claus, get their faces painted, and play holiday-themed games.
Bright light displays line the winter streets, making for some great photo ops. The lights really set the mood once the sun goes down.
Vendors sell unique items perfect for holiday gift shopping. You’ll find crafts and decorations made by people right in the area. The market has a laid-back vibe, so you can browse at your own pace and just enjoy the season.
Date | Time | Location | Cost | Where to Stay | Website |
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December 7-9, 2025 | 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM | Main St, Redfield, SD 57469 | Free Admission | Check booking.com for nearby hotels | Contact local tourism office |
178)Mina’s Holiday Fest
Mina’s Main Street lights up with one of South Dakota’s most welcoming winter celebrations. Locals and visitors gather for the festival, creating a cozy community vibe during the holidays.
Vendor Booths and Shopping
You’ll spot dozens of artisans selling handcrafted gifts and seasonal trinkets. Regional artists bring woodwork, pottery, jewelry, and textile crafts. Some vendors even let you personalize items right there.
Food and Refreshments
Throughout the day, you can grab holiday refreshments like hot chocolate, apple cider, and fresh baked treats from community groups. Local restaurants set up stands offering warm meals and classic seasonal snacks.
Entertainment and Activities
A central stage hosts live performances. Local musicians, school choirs, and theater groups fill the air with holiday songs. Kids get in on the fun with craft activities and games run by volunteers.
Santa Visit
Santa shows up in the afternoon for family photos. Don’t forget your camera. He usually sticks around for about two hours.
Date | Address | Time | Cost | Nearby Lodging | Website |
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December 15, 2025 | Main Street, Mina, SD | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Free | Aberdeen hotels (45 miles) | Contact city hall |
179)Wilmot Winter Wonderland
Every December, Wilmot transforms into a festive little town. Twinkling lights line the streets, and local vendors fill the downtown with holiday booths.
You’ll find handcrafted goods and regional foods at the stalls. Hot cocoa stands pop up to keep everyone warm on those chilly nights. The Christmas markets in South Dakota really do feel like a slice of local life.
Live performances keep things lively. Musicians play holiday tunes, and families gather around to listen. The decorated streets are perfect for snapping a few photos.
Santa stops by over the weekend. Kids can share their wish lists, and adults often join the fun too.
The Farmers Market of Wilmot hosts the main action. Parking is scattered throughout downtown, and honestly, you can walk everywhere in just a few minutes.
Locals pitch in to organize the activities, making the event extra friendly for visitors. The holiday events in South Dakota show off the area’s hometown traditions.
Dates | Times | Location | Cost | Website |
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December 15-16, 2025 | Sat: 10am-6pm, Sun: 12-4pm | 123 Main St, Wilmot, SD 57279 | Free Entry | Contact local chamber |
180)Gregory Holiday Market
Fair Information
Each winter, Gregory Memorial Auditorium fills up with local vendors and holiday shoppers. The indoor space hosts dozens of booths with handmade crafts and unique gifts.
Families come to finish their holiday shopping. Santa makes a scheduled appearance from noon until 2:00 p.m., and parents snap plenty of photos with him.
Shoppers from all over the region show up for this market. You’ll see artwork, seasonal decorations, and plenty of handcrafted items. Local artisans display their creations all through the auditorium.
The Gregory Mid-Winter Fair gives everyone a warm place to gather during the cold months. You can grab lunch in the community room while you shop.
Date | Times | Location | Cost | Nearby Hotels | Website |
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November 30, 2025 | 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. | Gregory Memorial Auditorium | Free admission | Check Booking.com for Gregory area lodging | cityofgregory.com |
Christmas Market Closures
Due to econonic conditions and tariffs, some Christmas Markets may cancel their events due to lack of vendors. If you are aware of a closed market,or find errors on a listing or an image, please reach out on our Contact Us page so that we may update this post.