Dakota News Now - Chislic Festival Returns on July 31st
Following the success of the first two years of the South Dakota Chislic Festival, the areas fastest-growing event is coming back — and it is better than ever.
The South Dakota Chislic Festival is set to make its much-anticipated return to the Prairie Arboretum in Freeman, SD, on July 31st, 2021, after the pandemic halted last year’s celebration. This year’s festival is shaping up to be the biggest and best yet, with more bands playing, more activities for all ages, and a custom brew crafted by Ben’s Brewing Company to pair perfectly with the star of our show, Chislic.
“We want to establish a community festival that is based on our rich local heritage. Chislic is always a social experience. Who does not love great music, food, craft drinks, and activities for the whole family?” says Jay Hofer, Chairman of the South Dakota Chislic Festival. “We strive to gather all enthusiasts of chislic, to celebrate the history of South Dakota’s State Nosh that runs deep in our community.”
The pop culture intersection that is the South Dakota Chislic Festival — ranges from the historical to culinary aspects. Guests can meet Keith Breedlove, celebrity chef who will be judging the Chislic cooking competition. Enjoy “Slic” the custom brew specifically designed by Ben’s Brewing Company to pair perfectly with Chislic.
New to the festival in 2021, Helicopter Rides by Ride in the Sky Helicopters based out of Sioux Falls, SD. They will be providing scenic helicopter flights. With over 15 years in helicopter flying experience, your Ride the Sky pilot will make sure that festival goers will have an unforgettable flight.
Although the festival was on track to return last year, the COVID-19 pandemic forced plans to change, but that unforeseen pause also allowed organizers more time to contract additional talents, perfect the chislic experience, and put together a dream lineup of musical talent.
“2020 was a trying year for all of us and we certainly missed not being able to have the festival,” Abby Streyle (South Dakota Chislic Festival Board VP) said. “We’re making up for it in 2021 by having more music, more activities and enough amazing chislic and beer to constantly keep your stomach and glass full.”
Stay tuned to see what else is in store for this summer’s most exciting festival: http://www.sdchislicfestival.com.
Schedule of Events
Friday, July 30
5-8 pm: Freeman Lions Club BBQ Stop by the Community Center at 224 S. Wipf Street and support the Freeman Lions Club (a SDCF Sponsor) at their annual event. Pork loin sandwiches, baked beans, cole slaw, chips, drink and dessert available for a freewill donation. Take-out available!
Saturday, July 31
7:30 am: Mutton Run: 10k, 5k & 1 mile walk/run Salem Mennonite Home, 106 W 7th St, Freeman
Following events are all at the Prairie Arboretum
10 am: Opening Ceremony
10 am-9 pm: Chislic, Chislic, Chislic! Along with a wide variety of food items, craft beer by Ben’s Brewing Company, domestic beer by Freeman Fire Department & other beverages.
10 am-7 pm: BINGO
10 am-7 pm: The Kid Zone by First Church of God
10:30 am: Live Music: Uncle Roy & The Boys
11 am: ‘Shashlic, Not Your Daddy’s Chislic’ Presented by Ian Tuttle and Marnette Hofer. Hear the history of chislic and taste delicious samples, while supplies last! Presentation also at 1 pm, 3 pm & 5 pm
12 pm: Live Music: Sioux Falls Country Tempo
2 pm: Live Music: Maggie In the Meantime
4 pm: Chislic Judge Introduction & Contest Winners
4:30 pm: Live Music: Jim River Band
6:30 pm: Live Music: Mogens Heroes
Around town
10 am-6 pm: Heritage Hall Museum & Archives Adjacent to the Prairie Arboretum. Visit the amazing exhibits this hidden treasure has to offer, with your paid admission.
9 pm-1 am: Hootz Bar, Live Music: Uncle Roy and the Boys
Main Street & More - Hours vary by business Take time to explore all Freeman has to offer. Stop by our local businesses and our sponsors.