Oktoberfest began with a royal wedding celebration in Bavaria more than 200 years ago. This Saturday, the tradition comes to downtown Mitchell with German-themed food, music, contests, wiener dog races and the 301 Rodz & Ridez Car Show.
Mitchell has a packed weekend of events Sept. 18-20, including the Dakota Oyate Challenge, 301 Rodz & Ridez Car Show, Palace City Farmers Market and Dakota Wesleyan University athletics.
Saturday, September 19, 2026, DWU will host a unique astronomy event in the Corrigan Health Sciences Center from 7 to 8:30.
Registration is open for Dakota Wesleyan University’s 2026 Blue and White Days homecoming parade, set for Oct. 10 on Mitchell’s Main Street. Businesses, organizations and clubs can register through Oct. 9.
South Dakota-made feature film “Thread Bound,” shot on location in Aberdeen, begins its statewide theatrical run Sept. 17, with screenings planned in Mitchell and communities across the state.
Mitchell will mark the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks with two upcoming events, including a Nation of Patriots motorcycle tour ceremony and a 9/11 memorial workout and stair climb.
The Streff Family Corn Maze near Salem, South Dakota, will open for just two weekends in September with an America 250-themed design featuring Mount Rushmore. Free-will donations will be accepted, with all proceeds benefiting Salem City Park.
Mitchell High School will celebrate football and a tradition connected to the Corn Palace when the 11th annual Kernel Bowl returns Saturday at Joe Quintal Field.
Lake Area Technical College will host an Open House and 5K Run/Walk on October 3rd.
September brings a full slate of community events to Mitchell, with sports, music, cars and seasonal celebrations giving residents plenty of reasons to get out and enjoy the community.