Why Sioux Falls Won't Have A 4th Of July Parade In 2025

For the first time in years, Sioux Falls will not see the annual 4th of July parade. According to the City of Sioux Falls website, the parade will not take place in 2025, citing a "low number of parade entrants."

However, there are still many activities families can partake in during America's Independence Day celebration, such as watermelon rolls, community lunch, swimming, fishing, live music, and an Open Street event. (details below)

"Due to the low number of parade entrants, the Independence Day Celebration Parade in downtown Sioux Falls will not be held this year. This adjustment aims to encourage residents to participate in other July 4 events, like the Levitt concert or the Open Streets event."

READ MORE: Experience Open Streets Block Parties In Downtown Sioux Falls!

Here are a few of the events going on in Sioux Falls during the 4th of July weekend:

Friday, July 4 (Independence Day):

11 a.m. | Community Lunch (Levitt Bandshell Downtown Sioux Falls): Lunch for the first 2,000 attendees on Phillips Avenue.
3:30-5 p.m. | Free Swimming at Terrace Park Family Aquatic Center: Complimentary admission including Wibit inflatables and other games with a patriotic theme.
5-8 p.m. | July Open Streets (Phillips Avenue between 6th and 7th Streets): Pedestrian activation with various games and activities brought to you by Downtown Sioux Falls and South Dakota AARP.
7 p.m. | Andrea Ross and her Orchestra at the Levitt at the Falls: Free performance by acclaimed vocalist Andrea Ross as a part of the 2025 Levitt Concert Series.

Saturday, July 5:

9-11 a.m. | Free Fishing Fun at Family Park: Free fishing opportunity brought to you by SD Game Fish and Parks. Poles/bait provided on a first-come, first-served basis.
1-3:30 p.m. | Watermelon Roll at Tuthill Park! Bring your watermelons for a rolling competition. Prizes will be awarded to the top three watermelons that achieve the farthest and shortest rolls.