The Sioux Empire Water Festival, annually held at the University of Sioux Falls, is an educational event where area youth learn about all things water. This is done through a variety of hands-on exhibits, classroom presentations, and other opportunities available throughout their time spent at the festival. It is hoped that all who attend leave understanding water is a precious resource and central factor in all aspects of our lives, which is why the goal of this event is increasing awareness of our many interactions with water to inspire preservation of its quality for future generations.

At this time, the Sioux Empire Water Festival is for 4th grade students only, in order to best utilize space, funding, and volunteers.  The presentations and exhibits are geared to the 4th grade level to help introduce concepts they will further explore as they continue into 5th grade. Students attend through having their teachers register for the event with their school, with emails being sent to area teachers in late Fall. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.

The Sioux Empire Water Festival happily boasts that we are celebrating our 34th year in 2027! Every year, we share this experience with over 2200 students, and look forward to welcoming the our next group of 4th graders this year. 

The next Sioux Empire Water Festival will be held March 2-3, 2027.