Mitchell Sports & Events Authority

The Sports & Events Authority promotes and sells the Mitchell community, its facilities and accommodations to the sports and events marketplace for the purpose of bringing a variety of events to Mitchell, in order to improve the quality of life in the Mitchell region and to further the Mitchell economy.

The Sports & Events Authority Advisory Committee reviews funding applications from organizations that are interested in bringing new events, or expanding existing events in the Mitchell community; focusing on those events that will increase overnight hotel stays in the Mitchell community.

Meetings are typically held on the second Tuesday of the month at 2pm in City Hall - Council Chambers.

Mitchell, South Dakota is a small city in eastern South Dakota located along Interstate 90, about 75 miles west of Sioux Falls. With a population of around 15,000, Mitchell offers a unique blend of rich Native American history, and small-town charm that makes it a memorable stop in the heart of the Midwest.

The city’s most iconic attraction is The World’s Only Corn Palace, a whimsical yet impressive building adorned annually with murals made entirely from corn and other grains. Serving as both a cultural landmark and a multipurpose venue for concerts and sporting events, the Corn Palace draws over 500,000 visitors annually from all over the country who are curious to see this one-of-a-kind expression of agricultural art.

Beyond the Corn Palace, Mitchell invites visitors to explore The Mitchell Indigenous Archaeological Site & Museum, an active archaeological site that provides a glimpse into life more than a thousand years ago. Guests can view excavations in progress under the Archeodome, walk through reconstructed Native lodges, and learn about the area's first inhabitants through fascinating museum exhibits.

Nearby, the Dakota Discovery Museum offers an in-depth look at prairie life and pioneer history, with historic buildings, Native American artifacts, and rotating art exhibits that highlight the region’s diverse cultural heritage.

For those interested in politics or social history, the McGovern Legacy Museum tells the story of George McGovern, a South Dakota native who became a significant figure in American politics during the 20th century.

Art lovers and history buffs alike can also visit the Carnegie Resource Center, which houses local art, genealogical records, and works by renowned Dakota artist Oscar Howe.

If you're in the mood for a stroll and love being outdoors, Lake Mitchell provides a peaceful setting for walking and biking on the many Lake Mitchell trails, birdwatching, fishing and boating, and camping and picnicking.

Also, Mitchell, SD houses two strong educational institutes - Dakota Wesleyan University and Mitchell Technical Institute.

Dakota Wesleyan University (DWU) was founded in 1885 and is a private liberal arts institution affiliated with the United Methodist Church. It offers a broad range of majors including education, business, communication, criminal justice, multimedia, the arts, nursing, and more, emphasizing development of the whole person — intellectually, socially, spiritually, and in leadership. The campus is relatively small — under 1,000 students — which tends to produce a more close‑knit, supportive environment for students and faculty.

Mitchell Technical College (Mitchell Tech) opened in 1968 as part of South Dakota’s technical education network and was renamed in 2020 (from “Institute” to “College”). It is a public two‑year institution focused on applied and technical education, offering dozens of certificate and associate degree programs. The campus occupies about 80 acres on the southeast side of Mitchell, and since its founding has graduated over 19,000 students. Mitchell Tech is known for having strong employment outcomes — a very high percentage of its graduates get jobs or continue their education soon after finishing.

Last of all, Mitchell’s vibrant downtown adds to its appeal, with locally-owned shops, diners, and cafés that reflect the friendly spirit of the community.

Check out the seasonal events like the Corn Palace Festival, the Palace City Pre-Sturgis Party, parades, and small-town rodeos which give visitors a taste of traditional South Dakota hospitality and celebration. Whether you're passing through or planning a short stay, Mitchell offers a surprising variety of things to see and do, all wrapped in authentic Midwest character.

Our office is located in City Hall, which is conveniently connected to The World's Only Corn Palace.

A customized, event-specific micro-site will be created on Playeasy if your event is awarded Sports & Events Authority Grant funding!

Also, check out the SEA 'Ear of Corn' Promotional Coupon (in the PHOTOS section) that will be available and distributed to all Sports & Events Authority events.

• Scan the QR Code to view current promotions at local businesses in Mitchell, SD during your event!

Did you utilize hotel & lodging accommodations during your visit?

• Take a moment to click on, review, and submit the Mitchell SEA-QR Code Hotel Survey, so we can hear more about your visit and stay in Mitchell, SD!

Last of all, check out Mitchell SD - Events Calendar for a comprehensive listing of other events and activities going on during your stop in Mitchell, SD!