Winter Wonderland: Guide to Sioux Falls' Holiday Lights

Come experience a magical Sioux Falls holiday tradition as Falls Park transforms into a Winter Wonderland filled with charming animated light displays, color-changing spotlights, hundreds of decorated trees and 300,000-plus twinkling lights. Now in its third decade, this cherished event has grown to span more than 29 miles of lights, 260 festive trees, garland for miles (literally), and other whimsical holiday touches.

Discover everything you need to know about attending the event — plus more Sioux Falls winter activities to pair with your visit.

When is Winter Wonderland in 2025?

This year, Winter Wonderland runs from November 21, 2025 through January 5, 2026. The show starts every evening at 5 p.m. and goes until midnight. 

Where is Winter Wonderland held?

Winter Wonderland is hosted in Falls Park in Sioux Falls. Located along the Big Sioux River, Falls Park is home to a series of scenic waterfalls that cascade throughout the length of the park. In wintertime, these falls freeze into massive formations, which are then transformed into a rainbow of colors as spotlights illuminate them during Winter Wonderland.

Do I need tickets for Winter Wonderland?

No, Winter Wonderland is a free event. Falls Park is open to visitors year-round at no cost.

What's the best way to experience Winter Wonderland?

Stroll along the trails in Falls Park to take in the holiday lights and array of colors, and get different viewpoints from numerous overlooks along the way. If you’re driving through the displays, turn your radio to 97.7 FM for a soundtrack of holiday music to enjoy while you sightsee. 

Want the best view of these glittering holiday lights? Stop by the Visitor Information Center, where you can marvel at 360-degree views of the park from the five-story tower.

What other activities are there at Falls Park?

Start your Falls Park adventure during the day with a stop at the historical horse barn near the Visitor Information Center for the Stockyards Ag Experience. Adults and kids alike will love uncovering Sioux Falls' agricultural heritage through interactive exhibits and educational displays.

After seeing the lights, visit the Falls Overlook Café to warm up with a bowl of hot chili, indulge in a steaming cup of cocoa topped with ice cream, or sip an adult beverage as you take in the views.

Note: Call ahead to confirm holiday hours before your visit.

Discover more wintry fun in Sioux Falls

As South Dakota's biggest city, Sioux Falls offers countless ways to round out your visit to Winter Wonderland. The holiday season officially kicks off with the Annual Sioux Falls Parade of Lights, held the Friday after Thanksgiving, as dozens of lighted floats make their way down Phillips Avenue to the delight of the crowds.

When it comes to winter family fun, what’s more classic than gliding across the ice as fluffy flakes fall? Check out beloved outdoor rinks at Tuthill Park and Memorial Park, where you’ll find warming houses and weather-dependent ice skating. Don't miss the new Jacobson Plaza outdoor skate ribbon, featuring a winding skating loop adorned with festive lighting, music and firepits perfect for chilly nights. Less than 20 minutes from downtown, Great Bear Ski Valley is a great place to make memories with family-friendly winter activities. Carve your way through 14 downhill runs, book a ski or snowboarding lesson, take part in an adaptive ski class, break out your snowshoes to explore snowy trails, or whoop and holler as you zip down the snowtubing hill.

Head downtown to experience Sioux Falls' buzzing dining scene, from the romantic ambiance and gourmet fare at Crawford’s and Parker’s Bistro to the lauded Mexican flavors of BibiSol. Families will love the kid-friendly environment at Grille 26, while CRAVE Food & Drink’s expansive menu, including a large selection of vegan and gluten-free items, will tantalize everyone in your group. Follow it with holiday-themed drinks at The Hello Hi or decadent desserts and craft cocktails at The Treasury. 

For theater and music fans, the season also brings can’t-miss holiday shows to the Washington Pavilion. Snag tickets for events ranging from Broadway musicals to concerts by the South Dakota Symphony. Or head to Denny Sanford PREMIER Center to watch the hometown hockey heroes, the Sioux Falls Stampede, battle it out on the ice.