S.D. CHISLIC FESTIVAL RETURNS NEXT WEEK

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 Freeman Prairie Arboretum next Saturday, July 31 after the pandemic halted last year’s celebration. Organizers say this year’s festival, which runs from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., 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 the show — chislic.

“We want to establish a community festival that is based on our rich local heritage,” said Jay Hofer, chair of the South Dakota Chislic Festival board of directors. “Chislic is always a social experience; who does not love great music, food, craft drinks, and activities for the whole family? 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 cultural intersection that is the South Dakota Chislic Festival ranges from the historical to culinary aspects. Guests can meet Keith Breedlove, a celebrity chef who will be judging the chislic cooking competition, and also enjoy “Slic” — the custom brew specifically designed by Ben’s Brewing Company for this year’s festival.

New to the festival in 2021 will be helicopter rides by Ride The Sky Helicopters based out of Sioux Falls, which will be providing scenic flights. With more than 15 years in helicopter flying experience, the 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,” said Abby Streyle, vice president of the festival board. “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.”

For more information, visit sdchislicfestival.com.

And watch for a full preview in next week’s Courier.