Annual Mural Makeover At Mitchell's Famous Corn Palace Underway

Okay, kids, buckle up. Who wants to visit the World’s Only Corn Palace?! And guess what? It’s only 72 short miles from Sioux Falls. That’s practically next door in Midwest terms!

Sounds like something Clark Griswold would holler as he loads up the Wagon Queen Family Truckster for a classic American road trip, right? But if you live in South Dakota, chances are you’ve either been there, planned to go there, or been guilt-tripped into going there at least once in your life.

Yes, I'm talking about Mitchell’s legendary Corn Palace, that glorious corn-covered gem that proudly holds the title of “Agricultural Showplace of the World.” And guess what? It’s makeover season again!

Get our free mobile app

The Corny Tradition Lives On

Every year around this time, a crew of about 20 dedicated artists and workers set out to refresh the Corn Palace’s iconic murals.

The palace boasts seven giant murals, each lovingly "painted" with dozens of shades of corn. No, really. This is basically a giant, life-sized paint-by-numbers, but with vegetables.

And this isn’t just any decorating gig; it’s a full-blown operation. The artists spend roughly three months assembling this husk-tacular display, and they aim to wrap it up by the end of October. It’s like Extreme Makeover: Cob Edition.

With America turning the big 2-5-0 in 2026, the Corn Palace is going patriotic for its next theme. According to Dakota News Now, the palace’s 2026 mural design will honor “250 Years of America.”

There Have Been a Multitude of A-MAIZE-ing Themes Through the Years

Over the decades, the Corn Palace has paid tribute to just about everything under the sun. Previous themes have included:

The Old West
South Dakota history
Military heroes and epic battles
Hunting, exploration, and everyday heroes
Wonders of the world
Good ol’ American pride

Let’s just say, if it’s ever been celebrated, the Corn Palace has probably slapped some corn on it and displayed it over the years.

Grab Your Popcorn and Catch the Corny Progress in Action

Curious to see how this year’s murals are shaping up? You can track the progress of the new “250 Years of America” murals as they take form, one cob at a time, right "ear", I mean, here.

5 Things South Dakota Gave the World

South Dakota may not get much respect. We get a blizzard and it's a footnote on the national scene, but if Florida gets a bit chilly it's breaking news. But, maybe it's fine to be forgotten about. We kind of like being left alone on our quiet piece of the plains.

South Dakota has given a lot to the world though. Not just giant mountain carvings and settings for HBO shows, but awesome things that the rest of the world should thank us for.

Gallery Credit: Ben Kuhns