RAPID CITY, S.D. — Rapid City’s calendar is packed this weekend with culinary pairings, live music, theater, dance, drag, and community-centered events. From early afternoon tastings to late-night performances, there’s something happening for nearly every interest on Friday, January 16, and Saturday, January 17.
Friday, January 16
Chef Pairing Experience at The Market
Friday afternoon begins with a curated culinary event at The Market Health Food Store.
From 2 to 4 p.m., guests can enjoy a wine and appetizer pairing led by in-house Chef Chris McConnell, featuring thoughtfully crafted combinations designed to elevate familiar flavors. The event offers a relaxed way to ease into the weekend while sampling unique pairings in an intimate setting.
Lucas Olson Returns to Firehouse Wine Cellars
Live music takes over Firehouse Wine Cellars at 5 p.m. as Lucas Olson returns to the cellar.
The Spearfish-based singer-songwriter blends R&B, soul, and psychedelic, jazz-influenced textures into a sound that’s both nostalgic and intimate. Olson has described his music as something meant for “late nights when you’re nostalgic for last summer,” and his performances often reflect that mood.
The show runs from 5 to 7 p.m., with Wine Down Happy Hour beforehand from 4 to 6 p.m., featuring $5 glasses of wine.
Paint, Music, and Live Entertainment Across Town
At 6 p.m., Coffee and the Cats hosts a Sip & Glow Paint Party, inviting guests to create artwork under UV lighting. The $25 ticket includes all painting materials, glow body paint, one mocktail, tea, or coffee, and access to the Kitty Cove. Participants can follow a template or paint a custom design.
Also at 6 p.m., Deep Fuzz takes the stage at Thirsty’s, delivering a high-energy set built around crowd favorites and easygoing party vibes.
Opening Night for “Calendar Girls”
Theatergoers can catch opening night of Calendar Girls at 7 p.m. at the Performing Arts Center of Rapid City, staged in the Studio Theater.
Written by Tim Firth and directed by Hannah Bowman, the play tells the true-inspired story of a group of women who create an unconventional calendar to raise money for charity after a hospital visit sparks action. The production balances humor with heartfelt moments and is based on the 2003 film of the same name.
The cast is led by Paula Kennison and Shannon Truax, alongside a large ensemble of local performers. The show contains mild language and adult themes and runs on select dates through early February.
Saturday, January 17
Brunch Made Me Sing It
Saturday morning starts with Brunch Made Me Sing It at Robbinsdale Entertainment Center at 11 a.m.
Described as a crowd-powered sing-along rather than karaoke, the event invites attendees to belt out favorite anthems — from throwbacks to modern pop hits — in a supportive, all-group atmosphere. The experience includes a brunch buffet, mimosas, and a focus on connection, laughter, and shared fun.
Propagated Plant Swap at Uplifted Winery
Plant lovers can stop by Uplifted Winery anytime during regular business hours for a Propagated Plant Swap.
Guests are encouraged to bring plant cuttings or potted propagations to trade, while the winery will also provide clippings to increase variety. The event is free to attend and designed to be casual, allowing visitors to browse, sip wine, and take home something new to grow.
Dance, Drag & Evening Entertainment
At 4 p.m., the Barefoot Dance Studios Annual Team Showcase takes place at the Performing Arts Center Historic Theater. The fundraising event features performances by competitive dance teams preparing for their upcoming season.
Later in the evening, ABY’s hosts Clueless: A Drag Show, inspired by the iconic 1990s film. Doors open at 6 p.m., with the show starting at 7 p.m.
The event features drag performers portraying characters inspired by Cher, Dionne, and Amber, serving high-fashion looks, pop hits, and throwback energy. Tickets are $15 at the door, and guests are encouraged to embrace their best ’90s-inspired outfits.
With food, music, art, theater, and community gatherings filling the schedule, Rapid City’s weekend lineup offers plenty of ways to connect and celebrate.
Find all this and a lot more at rapidcitypost.com — and as always, we’ll see ya in the moonlight. 🌙
