Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Lion Todd Smith about the Pancake Days.

From AI:

The 69th Annual Sioux Falls Lions Club Pancake Days is scheduled for Tuesday, April 14, and Wednesday, April 15, 2026, taking place at the Denny Sanford Premier Center (formerly the Sioux Falls Convention Center). 

Event Details and Schedule The event operates on a two-day schedule with extended hours to serve the community:

• Tuesday, April 14: 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM

• Wednesday, April 15: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM 

Scale and Operations This massive fundraiser serves over 10,000 people across 16 hours, featuring approximately 60,000 pancakes and 38,000 sausages cooked on 11 grills by trained volunteers.  Despite the high volume, the line moves quickly with a typical rush-hour wait time of only 20 to 25 minutes. 

History and Purpose Originally known as Aunt Jemima Pancake Days, the tradition began in April 1957 and has grown from a 4-griddle operation to a 69-year community staple.  The proceeds support local charities, including vision and hearing impaired initiatives, the McCrossan Boys Ranch, and eyeglass recycling programs. 

Ticket Information Tickets are available for purchase in advance at Lewis Drug, Hy-Vee, and Ace Hardware locations, or at the door. 

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