North Dakota statewide events

The 51st annual Badlands Circuit Finals Rodeo showcases the best cowboys, cowgirls, and livestock from the Northern Plains region12. This premier rodeo competition features traditional events like roping, riding, and barrel racing with special themed nights including "Night of the Cowboy" and "Military and Family Day.”

Bismarck’s World War Memorial Building transforms for a fun, family-friendly Halloween Carnival with games, refreshments, and prizes for kids and families to enjoy a safe and festive evening together.

The North Dakota State College of Science Performing Arts Department presents its inaugural seasonal concert featuring the Concert Choir, Jazz Band, and Wildcat Singers5. This free public performance moves between traditional and modern musical pieces, with the Jazz Band performing swing, rock, country, and jazz standards.

Roosevelt Park Zoo in Minot hosts Boo at the Zoo, a daytime trick-or-treat extravaganza where guests of all ages can dress up, collect treats, and enjoy themed activities surrounded by animals. It’s a beloved Halloween tradition for families in the region.

This free holiday marketplace at the Alerus Center showcases the best of North Dakota–made products from local entrepreneurs and artisans. Visitors can explore unique gifts including gourmet foods, handcrafted jewelry, home décor, and children's items while meeting Santa and enjoying live agricultural demonstrations for kids. 

The Bismarck Event Center hosts over 250 booths featuring handmade arts, crafts, and holiday treats from more than 160 talented exhibitors. This highly anticipated event offers unique, artisan–created gifts perfect for adding personal touches to holiday celebrations.

Downtown Grand Forks comes alive with this free community celebration featuring horse–drawn wagon rides, cookie decorating, and a spectacular parade of lights. The evening concludes with a breathtaking fireworks display, making it the perfect way to kick off the holiday season with family and friends.

Garrison's 31st annual celebration establishes itself as North Dakota's official Christmas capital with three weekends of Victorian charm. Visitors can enjoy live entertainment, the whimsical Fruitcake Toss, craft vendors, and rides on the authentic English double–decker "Queen Elizabus." Event dates are November 28-29, December 5-6 and 12-13.

The Bismarck Event Center features over 100 local entrepreneurs showcasing gourmet North Dakota foods, plus live cooking demonstrations at the new Culinary Stage. Visitors can sample Pride of Dakota products while learning recipes and meeting local artisans who create everything from specialty sauces to handcrafted chocolates and baked goods.

Williston Parks & Recreation hosts this elegant gala featuring beautifully decorated trees alongside gourmet food vendors and local culinary delights. The event includes live music, silent auctions, and specialty food stations showcasing regional cuisine, making it a perfect combination of food and visual splendor.

The Empire Arts Center hosts this spectacular holiday concert experience blending traditional carols with high–energy rock anthems in glowing candlelight. The performance features guest vocalists, a live choir, and virtuosic arrangements that blur the line between elegance and edge.

The Bismarck Event Center presents this unique theatrical experience as part of the Broadway in Bismarck season. This high–energy show combines pub songs, live music, and theatrical storytelling in an immersive performance celebrating camaraderie and community.

The West Fargo Park District launches its inaugural winter celebration with Rec on the Snow outdoor activities and the exciting Bouncin' Bash. The week–long festival includes coloring contests, Silver Snowflake hunts, senior luncheons, and numerous family–friendly winter activities.

The Empire Arts Center hosts a script-in-hand reading of Michael Frayn's Tony Award-winning drama exploring the mysterious 1941 meeting between physicists Heisenberg and Bohr in Copenhagen. This thought-provoking performance examines nuclear power ethics and features post-show discussions with local scientists covering topics from physics to marine biology, offering audiences both theatrical excellence and scientific dialogue in the intimate "living room" setting.

The North Dakota Museum of Art hosts GRAMMY® winner Imani Winds featuring Brandon Patrick George, Toyin Spellman–Diaz, Kevin Newton, Mark Dover, and Monica Ellis in an intimate concert setting. This free community event showcases some of the most ambitious and exciting wind instrument talent today.

Downtown Fargo's annual winter warmup features samples from over 20 unique stops throughout the downtown area. Participants explore local shops, restaurants, and businesses while enjoying coffee, cocoa, and tea tastings during this cozy Valentine's Day adventure.