Cosmos and Cocktails Event Blends Science and Art in Sioux Falls

Explore the night sky and enjoy specialty drinks at the Washington Pavilion's after-hours experience.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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The Cosmos and Cocktails event in Sioux Falls, South Dakota offers adults a unique opportunity to experience science, art, and astronomy in an elevated, 21-and-over setting. The event features hands-on exhibits, art galleries, and captivating planetarium shows, all while guests can sip specialty cocktails, wine, or beer.

Why it matters

Cosmos and Cocktails provides a rare chance for adults to rediscover their sense of wonder and curiosity about the universe, without the distractions of children. The event blends educational elements with an upscale social experience, appealing to science enthusiasts and those looking for a unique night out in Sioux Falls.

The details

The Cosmos and Cocktails event takes place on Thursday, February 26 from 6 to 8 PM at the Washington Pavilion in downtown Sioux Falls. Guests can explore three floors of hands-on science exhibits, wander through eight art galleries, and enjoy planetarium shows, all while indulging in specialty cocktails, wine, and beer. The highlight of the evening is the live planetarium presentation "From Your Backyard to the Deep Universe" led by Dr. Ken Murphy, a professor of physics.

  • Cosmos and Cocktails takes place on Thursday, February 26, 2026 from 6 to 8 PM.
  • Planetarium shows are scheduled at 6:15 PM and 7:15 PM.

The players

Dr. Ken Murphy

A professor of physics at Southwest Minnesota State University who will lead the live planetarium presentation.

Washington Pavilion

The venue hosting the Cosmos and Cocktails event, which includes the Kirby Science Discovery Center and Visual Arts Center.

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The takeaway

Cosmos and Cocktails provides an engaging and sophisticated way for adults in Sioux Falls to explore science, art, and astronomy in a social setting, blending educational elements with an elevated cocktail experience.