With winter kicking into gear, the City of Sioux Falls is embracing the cold and holiday season. That includes its annual Winter Wonderland at Falls Park and a brand-new attraction.
Sioux Falls is taking full advantage of the 22nd annual Winter Wonderland with a “lighting up The Falls” event beginning 5pm Friday, followed by fireworks at 6 pm. The lights will continue to stay on through Jan. 5, 2026.
Josh Johnson is the Parks Operations Manager for the city. He said Winter Wonderland has gained popularity over the years, so the city has stepped up its game accordingly.
“You will see over 29 miles of lights with over 300,000 light bulbs spanning 260 trees, 215 light poles and over one mile of garland. These numbers have grown significantly over the years. In 2003, we started with 10 miles of light strands, 170,000 individual lights, 184 trees and 182 lighted poles," Johnson said. "New features over the recent years include light-up arches, spheres, mini trees and a large ornament.”
In addition to Winter Wonderland, residents and visitors have the new Jacobson Plaza at their disposal. That includes an ice-skating ribbon in downtown Sioux Falls.
Jackie Nelson is the city’s recreation manager. She said they’re looking at the pairing of Winter Wonderland and Jacobson Plaza as an economic bonus for local tourism.
“You know we’re already getting good traction just on what we’re putting on social media today. Just, you know, not only seeing residents of Sioux Falls commenting, but also those around the area that look forward to this every year,” Nelson said. “I mean it’s really one of the largest displays we have across our region. So, yeah, from an economic perspective, things are looking up.”
The city hasn’t set an official date for the ice ribbon’s opening, largely because it’s weather dependent on cooler temperatures and dry conditions. However, Nelson said they're hoping for Friday. The city will announce the official opening date once known via social media. Ice skating costs $5 for time, plus a $3 skate rental option if needed.
Brett Kollars is the assistant director with Sioux Falls Parks and Recreation. He said Falls Park attracts about 1 million annual visits. Of that, 50-60% are people who traveled at least 50 miles. However, Kollars said the data shows Jacobson Plaza thus far has largely been a boon to locals.
“When we were at our peak, we’re seeing 3,000 people a day, 5,000 on a weekend day. So, it was packed out here,” Kollars said. “The neat thing about it is 80% of that was residents to Sioux Falls. So, we’re seeing people downtown who may not have otherwise made that trip."
Friday's event includes collaboration with The Steel District. The first 150 guests to show up at The Steel District receive one free blanket per family. That's located at Brioux Falls and the District Tower lobby. Local businesses at the Steel District are getting in on the festivities as well. Brioux Falls is serving hot chocolate and apple cider. Torrent Coffee Bar is serving grab and go food with hot drinks. Alcove is hosting a holiday basket giveaway and offering a free gift with purchases over $100. Big Sioux Burger and Ironwood Steakhouse is opening the patio for the event.
Falls Overlook Café will be open from 5 to 9 p.m. during the grand opening of Winter Wonderland, offering free ice cream while supplies last and a chili bar with cinnamon rolls and hot chocolate available for purchase. The Lodge at Jacobson Plaza will also be open until 10 p.m. with food and beverage options. For more information, visit siouxfalls.gov/winter-wonderland.
