✨ Your Thanksgiving weekend plans, all in one place

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This week, Sioux Falls shows off what it does best.

Fred, a 1.8-pound pup with a big spirit, is about to steal hearts. A group of neighbors just gave $344,000 to build a playground where every kid belongs. And over at The Barrel House, the brisket’s hot and the cocktails come with names like Sugar Cookie Martini.

From downtown parades to kitchen-table stories, it’s a good week to look around and feel truly thankful.

🎁 Barrel-Aged Cheer, Served All Season

As Black Friday arrives, The Barrel House leans into its warm, wood-toned charm: where walleye fish and chips, farmhouse burgers, and that smoky brisket hoagie meet a lineup of seasonal cocktails worth lingering over.

From a Sugar Cookie Martini to a Caramel Apple Old Fashioned, there’s something for every toast. And their gift-card bonus? A smart way to check names off your list while treating yourself to a return visit. Learn more here.

🌸 Petals With a Playful Streak

In Flower has a way of pulling you in the moment you pass the window, especially with the holidays creeping closer and every table begging for something bright.

Stephanie’s knack for pairing unexpected blooms shows up in every bouquet, each one a little story in color. Shoppers rave about her dried arrangements and her fresh designs that land right in the center of family gatherings, sparking those happy “where’d you get that?” conversations. Learn more here.

🌳 Big Boost for Sertoma’s Inclusive Playground

The Gist: The Sertoma Legacy Playground is moving closer to reality thanks to three gifts totaling $344,000. The Sioux Falls Noon Sertoma Club shared that community donors Rick and Glenys Hull contributed $59,000, the Elmen Foundation added $275,000, and Premier Bank gave $10,000. The future playground will include accessible surfacing, sensory friendly areas, and equipment designed for children with mobility, sensory, and developmental needs.

Why It Matters: Families will have another welcoming place where every child can play comfortably. Construction is planned to begin in 2026. Read more here.

❄️ Rare Snowy Owl Draws Crowd Near Sioux Falls

The Gist: A hard to spot snowy owl made a surprise visit near the Canton exit Friday morning, pulling in birders from across the region for a quick glimpse and a few prized photos. These Arctic visitors only drift this far south on occasion, often after what experts call an irruption, when younger birds wander farther than usual. Folks on site called the sighting a special treat, since many birders go their whole lives without seeing one.

Why It Matters: Moments like this connect neighbors with the quiet wonders of our prairie home. Learn more here.

Meet Fred, a 2 month old Dachshund baby who weighs just 1.8 pounds!

He is already winning hearts with his brave spirit. This small boy is currently with Dakota Dachshund Rescue and is seeking a special adopter who can give him the care he needs while he continues healing. Fred is sweet, gentle, and full of determination.

To learn more about this adorable puppy, click HERE.

🎄 Jingle Bell Run | Fawick Park | Sioux Falls | 11/28 | More
5K/1.5-mile walk where runners dress in holiday gear to support arthritis awareness.

💫 Parade of Lights | Phillips Ave | Sioux Falls | 11/28 | More
A sparkling holiday parade with glowing floats lighting up downtown.

❄️ Coca-Cola Christmas Semi Stop | Sunshine Foods | Sioux Falls | 11/28 | More
A festive pre-parade stop with the iconic Coca-Cola Semi plus free Santa photo ops.

🍪 Cookie Decorating Class | Landscape Garden Centers | Sioux Falls | 11/29 | More
A cozy holiday workshop with guided cookie decorating and all supplies included.

⛪ Prince of Peace: The Christmas Story | Orpheum Theater Center | Sioux Falls | 11/29 | More
A sweeping musical retelling of the Nativity with classic carols and powerful original songs.

✨ Christmas at the Castle | Sanford Children’s Hospital | Sioux Falls | 12/2 | More
Enjoy a magical evening of holiday lights, entertainment, and support for young patients.

🎶 Friendsgiving Nightclub Pop-Up | Monick Yards | Sioux Falls | 11/28 | More
A 21+ Friendsgiving party featuring drinks, dancing, and a late-night set by Mr. Wobbles.

🎉 Wedding Showcase & Fashion Runway | Denny Sanford PREMIER Center | Sioux Falls | 11/30 | More
South Dakota’s largest bridal event with giveaways, décor inspo, and VIP seating options.

🎂 A Celebration of Local Food | 421 N Phillips Ave | Sioux Falls | 11/30 | More
Chefs Jorge Garcia & T.R. Fuentes craft a seasonal five-course meal with hometown flavors.

🎭 Christmas with C.S. Lewis | Belbas Theater | Sioux Falls | 11/29–11/30 | More
Step into Lewis’ Oxford home on Christmas Eve for warm storytelling, wit, and reflections.

🌵 Tequila Tasting Class | Dahlia Kitchen + Bar | Sioux Falls | 12/2 | More
A guided tequila journey featuring tastings, cocktail-making, and hearty kitchen snacks.

If you want to read any of our previous issues, check them out HERE on our website.