There’s nothing like lights, merry music, and the smells of pine and peppermint to get you in the holiday spirit. But South Dakotans have their own set of holiday habits. Here are 4 of our favorites:
Celebrated for more than 35 years, this Pierre tradition features 100 twinkling trees on 3 floors of the Capitol building from Thanksgiving to New Year’s. The spectacle’s centerpiece is a grand 3-story Christmas tree that towers over the Rotunda’s glass prism floor.
It’s the “white gold” of the Black Hills that brings big grins to adventure seekers on the slopes. Terry Peak and Deer Mountain are South Dakota’s best known ski areas with peaks around 7,000 feet and more than 75 trails combined through the forest of spruce trees.
For hunters, the last minute dash doesn’t end up at a retail store. November and December are prime time to fetch pheasants as they bunch up in the colder weather after harvest. Try these pheasant recipes for your next holiday feast.
Each holiday season a troupe of talented musicians gather and travel the state spreading good will, good cheer and good music. Holiday Jam with the Hegg Brothers play holiday classics and contemporary arrangements across South Dakota, continuing the longtime tradition begun by A South Dakota Acoustic Christmas.
No matter what traditions you celebrate this holiday, spending time with friends and family is sure to supply the seasonal smiles.