Brookings Gets A Little 'Tipsy' During 2026 Downtown Pub Crawl

Every year around St. Patrick’s Day, or shortly after spring break when cabin fever has officially reached dangerous levels here in South Dakota, the city of Brookings hosts an event that could best be described as equal parts celebration, tradition, and controlled chaos: it's their annual Pub Crawl.

And judging by what happened last weekend, “controlled” might not be the best way to frame up this year's event.

It’s no secret that plenty of us South Dakotans enjoy getting a little “tipsy,” as country star Shaboozey likes to say. After surviving another long, windy, frostbite-friendly winter on the frozen prairie, people are more than ready to get out and have some fun.

Get our free mobile app

That energy was definitely on full display in Brookings on Saturday, March 28.

According to Dakota News Now, the Brookings detention center reported 32 arrests between Friday evening and Sunday morning during the Pub Crawl festivities. To put that into perspective, that number actually topped the combined arrest totals from last year’s Pub Crawl and Hobo Day weekend, and anyone who has lived in South Dakota for more than five minutes knows Hobo Day can get a little rowdy on occasion.

Brookings Police say the arrests made included three for assault, six for DUI, 18 for false identification, and one for felony DUI.

The Pub Crawl itself has become something of an unofficial spring tradition in the home of South Dakota State University. Downtown bars along Main Avenue typically open early and roll out the red carpet with breakfast specials, themed drinks, and drink specials, turning the area into a full-day party zone packed with students and locals alike.

If you’re trying to picture it, think of the classic movie Animal House on steroids, but set in a South Dakota college town with people wearing parkas, lots of Jackrabbits gear, chugging down copious amounts of White Claws and Fireballs.

It definitely has that type of vibe.

One thing’s for sure: when South Dakotans finally get in the mood to shake off winter, we don’t do it halfway. And small towns like Brookings certainly know how to lead the way.

10 Most Dangerous Cities in South Dakota

Cities on the east and west side of the Missouri River have made the latest list of South Dakota's Most Dangerous Cities for 2021.

Roadsnacks recently released its most 'Dangerous Cities' list and here in The Mount Rushmore state there are a few surprises, especially at the top. To determine the most dangerous cities in the state, Roadsnacks looked at the FBI's report on the latest violent crime, along with property crime statistics.

And surprisingly, the town with the most murders per capita in the state has less than 3,000 residents. Take a look at the list below.

For a look at the detailed list, visit roadsnacks.com Story Source: Roadsncaks