Yankton, Capital of the Dakota Territory, is celebrating the beginning of South Dakota's 125th Anniversary Saturday afternoon and evening.(Photo history at end of article.)

During the afternoon, on the streets of downtown Yankton, characters will be dressed in period garb, telling stories about Yankton, the territory, and the state.

Saturday evening at the Riverfront Event Center, the official kickoff party will be held. Social from 6 to 7 pm, a special statehood anniversary program from 7-7:30pm, and then dancing and fun for the rest of the evening.

Governor Dennis and LInda Daugaard, Lt. Gov. Matt and Karen Michels will lead the festivities.

Period dress is welcome, but not required. This is a family friendly event, and it's

FREE !

The photo is of the Dakota Territorial Capitol Building in 1866. It was built in 1862.

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