Rapid City, SD — The holiday season is officially in full swing, and this weekend brings a packed lineup of festive events across the city — from sing-alongs and dazzling light displays to comedy, live music, floral design, and a full Christmas-themed bar crawl downtown. Here’s your complete guide to what’s happening around town.
FRIDAY EVENTS
Holiday Sip & Sing With Nick Linn at Firehouse Wine Cellars — 5 PM
Firehouse Wine Cellars invites the community to step into a cozy Christmas evening with their annual Holiday Sip & Sing-along, led by local pianist Nick Linn. The event returns on Friday, December 5th and 19th from 5–7 PM, offering guests a songbook full of classic and modern holiday favorites.
Attendees can sip mulled wine, request their favorite carols, and join in a lively, heartwarming sing-along perfect for fans of all ages. Organizers say the event is designed as “a merry night with friends old and new… guaranteed to get you glowing.”
Storybook Island Christmas Nights of Lights — 5:30 PM
Storybook Island transforms into a winter wonderland once again with its beloved Christmas Nights of Lights. Visitors can stroll among thousands of sparkling displays, enjoy hot cocoa, and browse holiday shopping options — all while supporting the park’s mission to remain admission-free during the summer season.
Admission is $5 per person (children age 1 and under are free), with the event running from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM.
Ryan Niemiller at West River Comedy Club — 7:30 PM
Comedy fans will recognize Ryan Niemiller, the “Cripple Threat of Comedy” and a standout finalist from America’s Got Talent Season 14. Known for his sharp wit, self-deprecating humor, and comedic honesty about navigating the world with a disability, Niemiller brings a high-energy set covering dating, employment, acceptance, and everything in between.
He has become a staple in clubs and colleges across the country — a testament to a career built on resilience, punchlines, and impeccable timing.
Holidazzle Big Band Experience at The Performing Arts Center — 7:30 PM
For those craving a classic holiday sound, the Black Hills Symphony League presents the Holidazzle Big Band Experience featuring Shaun Johnson Big Band. This joyful performance blends big-band energy with seasonal favorites, creating a festive night for music lovers at the Performing Arts Center.
SATURDAY EVENTS
Bloom Bar at Victoria’s Garden — Opens at Noon
Victoria’s Garden invites guests into their lower-level Bloom Bar, where workstations are fully stocked for a create-your-own floral arrangement experience. For a $5 studio fee plus individually priced stems, participants have complete creative freedom to design bouquets, wrapped arrangements, or vase displays.
A team of “Flower Goddesses” will be on hand to guide, assist, or inspire creators of all skill levels.
Potter Family Christmas at Open Bible Church — 5 PM
Open Bible Church hosts a free Christmas concert featuring the Potter Family, known for their rich harmonies and uplifting performances. The evening aims to usher in the wonder and hope of the season while supporting Creekside Christian School through a free-will donation.
Doors open at 4 PM, and seating is first-come, first-served.
Merry LITmas Bar Crawl Downtown — Starts at 6 PM
Downtown Rapid City goes full holiday-movie mode for the Merry LITmas Bar Crawl, starting at 6 PM at Lost Cabin Beer Co. Each participating bar embraces a different Christmas film theme — from Elf and The Grinch to Die Hard, Nightmare Before Christmas, and Christmas Vacation.
Participants will receive a stamp card and wristband at check-in (free to participate; 21+), then crawl through downtown collecting stamps by purchasing beverages, food, or merch.
The night ends on the Firehouse Brewing Co. patio with raffle drawings, festive chaos, and the “Most LIT(up) Costume Contest” at 11 PM. Costumes — from ugly sweaters to full movie characters — are strongly encouraged.
Youth & Family Services: Holiday for Fiddles at The Performing Arts Center — 7 PM
Holiday for Fiddles returns for its fourth year with an impressive lineup of musicians including Kenny Putnam, Tom Schaefer, Brian and Kaija Bonde, Mike Connor, Boyd Bristow, Al Remund, and Larry Rohrer.
The 90-minute concert blends fiddles, acoustic instrumentation, and original vocal performances to create a warm, nostalgic, and festive holiday atmosphere. A matinee and evening performance are both offered in the Historic Theatre.
For full details on these events and more happening across the Black Hills, visit RapidCityPost.com.
We’ll see ya in the moonlight. 🌙
