Northeast Radio SD News – Watertown, SD - Two of the community’s leading tourism and event‑industry professionals urged the City Council Monday night to take stronger action to stabilize and invest in the Watertown Event Center, warning that the facility’s economic impact is being undermined by aging infrastructure, unclear oversight, and a troubled management transition.

Watertown’s sales tax collections for the first six months of 2026 continue to trend upward, according to the city’s latest Sales Tax Comparison History report. Year‑to‑date figures show increases across the 1st Penny General Fund, 2nd Penny Capital Fund, and BBB (Bed, Board & Booze) tax, reflecting continued economic activity through mid‑year. 1st Penny – General Fund Up 4.23% Year‑to‑Date The city has collected $4,515,242 in first‑penny revenue so far in 2026, compa

Northeast Radio SD News – Watertown, SD - With the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally set for August 7–16, Watertown is gearing up for its annual Rally Rush, a community‑wide celebration running from late July through August that welcomes riders traveling to and from the world‑famous event.

Northeast Radio SD News – Watertown, SD - Visit Watertown marked a major milestone this week with a Ribbon Cutting and Open House at its new headquarters, drawing a strong turnout from community members, business leaders, and tourism partners. The celebration coincided with National Travel & Tourism Week, highlighting the growing impact of tourism in Codington County.

Northeast Radio SD News – Watertown, SD - Visit Watertown is joining destinations across the country in celebrating National Travel and Tourism Week, May 3–9, 2026, recognizing the travel industry’s role in economic growth, job creation, and community development.

Northeast Radio SD News – Watertown, SD - Tourism in Watertown is hitting a high note as city officials report consistent growth in sales tax revenue and a fresh chapter for the city’s tourism hub. Anjelica Uthe, Executive Director of Visit Watertown, joined Northeast Radio SD this week to discuss the city’s upward trajectory and several major milestones on the horizon for 2026.

Northeast Radio SD News – Watertown, SD - The local tourism landscape is about to look a little different. During a live broadcast on Monday, March 23, the leaders of Visit Watertown announced that they are officially moving their headquarters to the historic Goss Opera House and are now seeking nominations for the 2026 Tourism Awards.

Northeast Radio SD News - Watertown, SD - In a major announcement that signals a new chapter for the Watertown tourism industry, Executive Director Anjelica Uthe of Visit Watertown revealed that the organization will be relocating its headquarters to the heart of the city’s historic district. Starting April 1, 2026, Visit Watertown will take up residence in the historic Goss Opera House, moving into the space formerly occupied by Maud’s Mercantile.

Northeast Radio SD News - Watertown, SD - Today, February 19, marks Destination Professionals Day, a global nod to the behind-the-scenes experts who turn local culture into economic growth. To celebrate, Visit Watertown has announced a strategic move into the heart of the city’s historic district: the former Maud’s space inside the Goss Opera House.

Northeast Radio SD News - Watertown, SD - Staying connected to local events in Watertown has become more efficient as Visit Watertown highlights the ongoing success of its all-inclusive community calendar.

Northeast Radio SD News - Watertown, SD - The Glacial Lakes & Prairies Tourism Association (GLPTA) held its Annual Meeting on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at The Goss Opera House in Watertown, where the association celebrated its accomplishments and future initiatives while honoring Executive Director Rosie Smith.