Welcome to the Washington Pavilion — the region’s home for the arts, entertainment and science. Situated in the heart of downtown Sioux Falls, our facility resides within a beautifully renovated historic building. Here at the Washington Pavilion, a fusion of performing arts, visual arts, interactive science and educational opportunities come together seamlessly under one roof.
Our establishment boasts two state-of-the-art theaters including the Mary W. Sommervold Hall and Belbas Theater, eight spacious art galleries within the Visual Arts Center, over 100 interactive science exhibits inside the Kirby Science Discovery Center and ongoing film showings in the Wells Fargo CineDome & Sweetman Planetarium. Additionally, the Washington Pavilion offers quality educational events and programs through the Education Department and Graham Academy Preschool and delectable delights at The WP.
Functioning as a private, 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization, the Washington Pavilion is committed to the betterment of the community through both earned and contributed support.
Our work revolves around integrating art and science into the daily lives of countless individuals, encompassing a wide spectrum of ages and backgrounds. Our extensive programming includes:
- Broadway Tours and intimate Chamber Recitals presented within the Mary W. Sommervold Hall and Belbas Theater.
- The Kirby Science Discovery Center's three levels, housing over 100 hands-on interactive science exhibits.
- Rotating educational films, live space launches and enchanting stargazing evenings within the distinct Wells Fargo CineDome & Sweetman Planetarium.
- A diverse range of regional and national exhibits showcased in the Visual Arts Center, spanning from South Dakota artists to internationally acclaimed figures.
- The Education Department and Graham Academy Preschool, offering top-tier educational classes, camps and schooling experiences.
Beyond these enriching experiences, the Washington Pavilion champions the community through various additional initiatives:
- Free First Friday: Extending complimentary museum admissions every first Friday of the month, welcoming over 8,000 visitors annually.
- Live & Local: Providing an affordable platform every 3rd Thursday for local artists to captivate audiences with their talent and creativity.
- Dakota Academy of Performing Arts: Cultivating the talents of young individuals, preparing them for exceptional music and theater performances.
- Special Events: Offering distinctive and affordable spaces for birthdays, weddings, corporate gatherings and more, guided by our dedicated Events Team.
- Cultural Partnerships: Collaborations with esteemed entities such as the South Dakota Symphony Orchestra, SculptureWalk, South Dakota Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the South Dakota African American History Museum.
With the vast array of high-quality programming and educational activities available at the Washington Pavilion, visitors can rely upon the organization to entertain, educate and enrich. Experience your Washington Pavilion today.
Celebrating 20 Years