Good morning, Sioux Falls.

Xcel Energy Sioux Falls Service Center employees have volunteered for local nonprofits and hosted blood drives, packing produce for families and donating 35 units of blood while logging 3,500 volunteer hours during their Day of Service—an effort that has made a $120,000 economic impact. The Xcel Energy Foundation also awarded $5,000 grants to Carthage, Ramona, Tea and Monroe to support projects like a new storm safety siren, ballpark upgrades, a digital sign and ball field lighting.

Baumgartner's Christmas Trees in Sioux Falls is celebrating 70 years this holiday season by serving over 1,100 families and showing that 93-year-old Jerry Baumgartner still works with his family to keep the tradition alive—ensuring each tree is carefully prepped and secured in customers’ vehicles. Located at 1701 W. Madison, the long-running business continues to bring festive joy to the local community.

Travel South Dakota is working to bring more international visitors to the state—its team meets with tour companies abroad, hosts events in Rapid City and reaches out to travel writers to showcase local outdoor adventures and sites like Sioux Falls.

The three part effort includes public relations, digital outreach and trade meetings to help spread visitor spending throughout the state.

The Sioux Metro Growth Alliance Growth Summit will be held on Dec 9 at Sanford Event Barn from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.—experts will present on data centers, nuclear energy, renewables, and economic development challenges.

Speakers will outline modern incentive policies and vital energy strategies to shape future growth in the region.

In November, Sioux Falls issued $35 million in new building permits, led by a $10.4 million permit for the butterfly garden addition at the Great Plains Zoo + year-to-date building activity reached $1.25 billion, which outpaced the same period in the past two years despite fewer single-family permits.

Sioux Falls saw nearly 5 inches of snow over Thanksgiving, marking its heaviest 24-hour snowfall since January 2024—city plows are still clearing roads to keep drivers safe.

Open enrollment on healthcare.gov runs until Dec.

15 for coverage beginning Feb. 1—those who lack employer insurance should review their options. Avera Health Plans warns that delays may lead to higher out-of-pocket costs—prompt action is advised before premium increases take effect.

A luxury two-story home located at 2508 W.

Sleigh Creek Circle in south Sioux Falls was renovated with six bedrooms + five baths and over 6,100 square feet of living space built with classic craftsmanship—modern amenities. The property sits on a private 0.8-acre lot and features details such as a Wolf range + Sub-Zero refrigerator while being listed for $1,950,000.

Cherapa Place nears final completion 20 years after a famous demolition event reshaped downtown and now offers office space, condos, and shops with special celebration deals.

Local officials say the mixed-use project sparked lasting change—Sioux Falls continues to benefit from its transformative vision.

Holiday for Fiddlers Concert

7:00 – 8:30 p.m. — Mary W. Sommervold Hall — $57.73 — Enjoy a festive concert featuring top South Dakota fiddlers and their unique instrumental harmonies.

Tonic Sol-Fa Holiday Farewell Concert

Evening show — Mary W. Sommervold Hall — $52.87 – $124.49 — Experience Tonic Sol-fa's final holiday performance alongside Shaun Johnson Big Band Experience in a night of memorable music and nostalgia.

Christmas with Lorie Line 2025

Time TBA — Mary W. Sommervold Hall — Cost info not provided — Celebrate the Christmas season with Lorie Line's elegant piano arrangements and heartwarming stories.

South Dakota Symphony - Tis the Season

7:30-9 p.m. — 301 S Main Ave, Sioux Falls, SD — Tickets may apply — Celebrate the holiday season with the renowned South Dakota Symphony Orchestra and Chorus featuring tenor Ben Gulley's festive performance.

Temptations & Tempranillo

6-9 p.m. — Harvester Kitchen by Bryan — $ — Embark on a bold flavor journey as Chef Bryan pairs innovative dishes with rich Tempranillo wines.

Matthew Mayer Concert

7-10 p.m. — Orpheum Theater Center — $77.59 — Enjoy an intimate evening of solo piano music and storytelling from South Dakota's own Billboard charting artist Matthew Mayer.

Candlelight Concert: Queen vs. ABBA

6:30-7:45 p.m. — The Social — Tickets required — Experience the iconic music of Queen and ABBA illuminated by candlelight in an enchanting atmosphere.

Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical

Dec 23-27 — 301 S Main Ave, Sioux Falls, SD — Ticket prices vary — Experience the magical musical that brings the Grinch's heartwarming story to life with beloved songs and vibrant sets.

Feast of the Seven Fishes

5-9 p.m. — Harvester Kitchen by Bryan — Cost varies — Celebrate the Italian-American Christmas Eve tradition with a memorable feast of seafood delicacies.

Winter Blitz Flag Football Tournament

8 a.m. - 5 p.m. — Sanford Sports Complex — $225 per team — Enjoy a fun and competitive environment for young athletes in grades 1-8.