It's an exciting week in Sioux Falls thanks to the annual Sanford International Open. The Sioux Empire is hosting PGA Tour Champions players and their caddies to one of the biggest sporting events in Sioux Falls.

Some surprises happened on and off the golf course. One occurred at breakfast earlier this week at local Sioux Falls restaurant.

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Read More: Here to Stay: Sanford Intl Extends to 2030 in Sioux Falls

Loyal patrons of The Original Pancake House in Sioux Falls had a shocking guest sitting inside for breakfast. 1992 Masters Champion, 15-time PGA TOUR winner, 14-time PGA Tour Champions winner, and World Golf Hall of Famer Fred Couples paid a visit to The Original Pancake House on West 41st street. Staff posted the photo of this epic moment in a Facebook post.

This is golf royalty at the The Original Pancake House in Sioux Falls. Freddy (Also Known as "Freddy Boom Boom") is one of the many highlights that are part of this year's Sanford International at the Minnehaha Country Club.

Tom Hauck, Getty Images
Tom Hauck, Getty Images

Read More: Golf Pro Padraig Harrington Covers Giant South Dakota Bar Tab

Sioux Falls golf enthusiasts have plenty of reasons to get excited for the Sanford International. Players part of the event this year not only include Fred Couples, but also Zach Johnson, Michael Block, crowd favorite John Daly, returning champion Steve Stricker, Darren Clarke, KJ Choi, Bernhard Langer, and more legends with the PGA Tour Champions.

Sanford International - Round Two
Getty Images

Don't forget about the EMC Greats of the Game! The EMC Greats of the Game is a "can’t-miss 9-hole exhibition pairing the greats of the game in a fun and competitive showdown. Shortly after the final tournament group tees off on Hole 10 (approx. 2:30 pm), this unique event is your chance to witness four icons of the entertainment world, up close and in action." This match features Two-Time US Open Champion and Sanford International Host Andy North, and former Minnesota Vikings stars Kyle Rudolph and John Randle.

You can still get your tickets for the tournament by clicking here.

Here's How to Get Free Stuff on Your Birthday in Sioux Falls.

We've added even MORE birthday freebies from Sioux Falls businesses.

Everyone loves free stuff, especially on your birthday. Most of the freebies require you to sign up for their rewards program, e-mail list, or mobile app, so make sure you plan ahead. Some of the offers are good just on your birthday, while others are good for a week or longer.

Of course, this is just a small list. There are many more businesses that offer free stuff for your birthday right here in Sioux Falls. You just need to ask! Or, choose your favorite business, check out their website, and sign up for their e-mail club. All offers are subject to change at any time. Call ahead or check their website for more details.

*List updated 1/31/2025 - Individual businesses may change their policies at any time.

Gallery Credit: Karla Brown

17 Animals You Can Hunt All Year in South Dakota

South Dakota loves to hunt. It's not only one of the state's most popular pastimes, but it's also big business. Especially South Dakota's famous Pheasant season.

There are seasons for hunting deer, antelope, turkey, and even bison. Plenty of opportunities to get that freezer in the garage stocked up.

The South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks Department is the place to go for info about hunting licenses and specific rules and regulations for hunting in South Dakota.


Hunting most game in South Dakota is restricted to specific hunting seasons. Like deer and pheasant seasons in the fall.

But there are also animals you can hunt year-round in South Dakota.

There are still some rules to follow, like where exactly you can hunt. South Dakota has millions of acres of public and private land to hunt on. And you'll still need a hunting license.

So, always check with the South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks Department for the latest information and regulations.

Gallery Credit: Ben Kuhns

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