This guide was researched in spring 2026. Timing below describes when events usually happen, not confirmed dates. For this year's dates, prices and vendor details, see the listed upcoming events or check the organizer's website before you go or apply. How we verify events

Craft Shows & Fairs in Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Sioux Falls is the hub of South Dakota's eastern craft show circuit, anchored by the Sioux Empire Arts & Crafts Show — a twice-yearly event with 199+ exhibiting members and a strict 100% handcrafted standard. Craft shows in Sioux Falls run from the spring and holiday Sioux Empire shows at the W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds to The Black Market's monthly variety markets and a calendar of holiday markets. The Sioux Empire show draws exhibiting members from 15 states.

Sioux Falls Craft Show Scene

The Sioux Empire Arts & Crafts Show is the signature event, organized by Black Inc Events. Two editions run each year. The spring show (mid-March) fills the W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds Expo Building with 199+ exhibiting members on Friday noon-8pm and Saturday 9am-5pm. The holiday show (November 13–14, 2026) is also at the W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds, opening Friday at noon. Both editions enforce a 100% handcrafted standard — pottery, jewelry, housewares, candles, rugs, holiday decor, furniture, and toys. No resale goods, no commercial products.

The Black Market (formerly Benson's Flea Market) is an indoor variety market at the W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds Expo Building, generally the first full weekend of each month from October to April. Antiques, collectibles, and household finds are the focus, alongside some crafts.

The Sioux Empire Fair is the city's traditional county fair, held at the W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds with agricultural exhibits, entertainment, and vendor areas. Experience Sioux Falls promotes craft and antique shows across the metro.

Holiday markets in November and December fill the pre-Christmas shopping season with indoor handmade events. The W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds hosts the November Sioux Empire show.

Country Fairs & Regional Events

The Sioux Empire Fair at the W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds is Sioux Falls' home fair, with agricultural exhibits, livestock, and entertainment. The South Dakota State Fair in Huron (approximately 110 miles northwest) runs in early September with fine art, needlework, quilting, and agricultural programming — it has been held since 1885.

Brookings (55 miles north, home to South Dakota State University) and Vermillion (60 miles south, home to the University of South Dakota) host their own community events and county fairs.

Best Times to Visit Sioux Falls for Craft Events

March is the peak spring month — the Sioux Empire Arts & Crafts Show spring edition runs at the W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds. November brings the holiday Sioux Empire show at the same fairgrounds. Holiday markets fill November and December. Summer is a quieter period between the two main show seasons.

Nearby Cities for Craft Shows

Rapid City — ~350 miles west; Main Street Square seasonal markets; marketplace pop-ups at The Monument; gateway to Black Hills events
Deadwood — ~390 miles west; Wild Bill Days (June); Deadwood Jam (September); gallery scene
Custer — ~400 miles west; Buffalo Roundup & Arts Festival (September, 100+ artists)

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best craft shows in Sioux Falls?

The Sioux Empire Arts & Crafts Show is the premier event — 199+ exhibitors, 100% handcrafted standard, running twice yearly (spring and holiday editions at the W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds). The Black Market runs monthly from October to April with antiques, collectibles, and some crafts. Holiday markets fill November and December with gift-focused handmade events.

When do craft shows happen in Sioux Falls?

The Sioux Empire Arts & Crafts Show spring edition runs in March at the W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds. The Black Market runs monthly at the same venue from October to April. The holiday Sioux Empire show runs in November at the W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds. Holiday markets fill November and December. The Sioux Empire Fair runs in summer.

Are Sioux Falls craft shows handmade only?

The Sioux Empire Arts & Crafts Show enforces a 100% handcrafted standard — 199+ exhibiting members with pottery, jewelry, housewares, candles, rugs, holiday decor, furniture, and toys. No resale or commercial goods. The Black Market is a variety market with antiques and collectibles, so its vendor mix is broader. Other community events may have broader vendor mixes.

Are there country fairs near Sioux Falls?

The Sioux Empire Fair at the W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds is the local fair. The South Dakota State Fair in Huron (110 miles northwest) runs in early September with agricultural exhibits and fine art programming. Minnehaha County and Lincoln County fairs serve the Sioux Falls metro area.

Find Events in Sioux Falls

CraftShow Events covers craft shows, artisan markets, and fair listings in Sioux Falls and across South Dakota. Search by date and event type to find the Sioux Empire Arts & Crafts Show, The Black Market, holiday markets, and everything in between.