Families Enjoy Pride of Dakota Showcase

By Scout Nelson

The Pride of Dakota Holiday Showcase returns to the community as a two-day event that brings together local products, family activities, and festive holiday fun. This annual showcase highlights more than two hundred companies that create unique items made across the state.

Shoppers can explore thousands of goods such as gourmet food, wine, books, jewelry, clothing, personal care items, pottery, quilts, photos, art pieces, and children’s products. The event supports local creators and gives families a chance to discover new favorites.

The showcase is open from noon to eight on Friday and from nine to five on Saturday. Admission is free, and shoppers also receive free bags, which are sponsored by a statewide savings program. The event focuses on making holiday shopping easy, enjoyable, and affordable for everyone.

A popular part of the showcase is the visit from a real bearded Santa. Families can meet Santa and take photos during his scheduled hours each day. He will take short breaks to care for his reindeer, adding a fun and festive touch for children.

This year brings new additions, including a culinary stage with live cooking demonstrations on both days. There is also an Ag in the Classroom stage designed for kids, offering hands on activities that teach basic agriculture knowledge in an engaging way.

Retail store owners are encouraged to attend the showcase as well. The event is a helpful chance for retailers to try new products, support local businesses, and build long term partnerships with state-based creators. Many companies across the region benefit from these connections.

Parking is free in designated lots, and guests are guided to enter through a marked door on the west side of the event center. A full list of participating companies is available online for shoppers who want to plan their visit.

The event is part of a larger state supported program that helps more than five-hundred-member businesses through marketing, education, and promotional opportunities throughout the year.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-steve-baccon