Things to Do in Sioux Falls This Weekend: Family-Friendly Events and Local Fun

If you’re looking for things to do in Sioux Falls this weekend, there’s a strong mix of family-friendly outings, downtown events, arts programming, and easy ways to enjoy spring around town. Whether you want to keep the kids busy, plan a casual date night, or just get out and explore, this weekend has plenty to offer.

Here’s a roundup of upcoming Sioux Falls events worth adding to your weekend plans.

Family-friendly events to check out

Downtown Open Streets: Art & Wine Walk

Downtown Sioux Falls is kicking off its 2026 Open Streets season on Friday, May 1, with an Art & Wine Walk. The event is designed to be family-friendly, with downtown streets closing to vehicle traffic so people can walk, shop, and explore more comfortably. It runs from 5 to 8 p.m., making it an easy after-work or after-school outing even if you only have an hour to spare.

For families, this is a great option because it combines local energy, walkability, and room to move around downtown without the usual traffic. If you’re headed out with kids, go earlier in the evening for the most relaxed experience.

Parades, Picnics & Pageants: South Dakota Celebrates Exhibit

If you want something flexible and low-pressure, the Old Courthouse Museum has an ongoing exhibit called Parades, Picnics & Pageants: South Dakota Celebrates. Because it runs all day, it works well for families with unpredictable schedules or visitors who want an indoor stop between other weekend plans.

This is a solid choice for anyone looking for a more laid-back activity that still feels local and educational.

AudaTours Sioux Falls Audio Tour: Echoes and Icons of Downtown Legends

For families with older kids, couples, or visitors wanting to explore the city at their own pace, the AudaTours Sioux Falls Audio Tour is another all-day option. The downtown tour gives you a reason to slow down and experience the city in a different way while still leaving room for coffee stops, shopping, or dinner.

It’s especially good if you want a self-guided activity that doesn’t lock you into one specific time.

Spring Fling at Five Generations Fresh

If you’re willing to make a short trip outside Sioux Falls, Five Generations Fresh in Hartford is hosting a Spring Fling event this weekend featuring a coffee truck, petting zoo, seedlings, and local vendors. That combination makes it one of the more naturally family-friendly options in the area, especially for younger kids who love animals and open space.

This one is a nice pick if your ideal weekend looks more relaxed and outdoorsy than packed and downtown.

Arts, books, and community events

Zine Folding Party at Startup Sioux Falls

Looking for something a little different? A Zine Folding Party is planned for Friday, May 2 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Startup Sioux Falls. It’s a creative, community-centered event that offers a casual daytime option for people who enjoy local media, art, and hands-on projects.

If your schedule is flexible during the day, this is a fun way to do something local that feels a little more offbeat than the standard weekend event lineup.

Beyond the Books

Book lovers may want to check out Beyond the Books, a two-day event happening Friday and Saturday through Our Savior’s Lutheran Community Library. The event includes author presentations, book signings, a vendor fair, and a broader celebration of literature.

This is a good option for adults, teens, and families with older readers who want something quieter but still engaging.

Emily’s Hope Youth Art Showcase

Community members can also support local students at the Emily’s Hope Youth Art Showcase, which highlights art from middle and high school students. This year’s theme, “Rise Above,” focuses on using creativity and positive expression to overcome challenges.

It’s a meaningful local event and a good reminder that a weekend out in Sioux Falls can include both fun and community connection.

More weekend ideas in Sioux Falls

Live theater and performing arts

If you want to mix in a classic night out, Sioux Falls’ event calendar also includes productions like Grease: School Version at Roosevelt High School and Meredith Willson’s The Music Man at the Washington Pavilion heading into the weekend. These are especially good picks for families with theater-loving kids or anyone wanting a more traditional evening plan.

Sports and big-event energy

The first weekend in May also brings the 101st Annual Howard Wood Dakota Relays, a signature Sioux Falls event that adds major energy to the city. If your family enjoys track and field, school spirit, or community sporting events, it’s one to keep on your radar.

Tips for planning your weekend

• For younger kids: prioritize Spring Fling, museum time, or Open Streets earlier in the evening.
• For teens: youth arts, downtown events, theater, and literary programming may be a better fit.
• For visitors: pair an event with downtown Sioux Falls favorites like Falls Park, SculptureWalk, or a local brunch stop.
• For flexible plans: all-day offerings like the Old Courthouse exhibit and AudaTours make it easy to build your own schedule.

Final thoughts

Sioux Falls has a good mix of big community events and lower-key activities this weekend, which makes it easy to build a plan around your family, your budget, and your energy level. If you’re hoping to get out of the house without overcomplicating things, start with one anchor event and leave room to explore.

From downtown walkable events to creative community gatherings and family-friendly stops, there are plenty of ways to make the most of the weekend in Sioux Falls.

Note: Event details can change, so it’s smart to confirm times and ticket information directly with the event organizer before you go.