Watertown Chamber Gears Up for Action-Packed Spring 2026
- Steve Jurrens
- Feb 25
- 2 min read
Northeast Radio SD News - Watertown, SD - Fresh off a record-breaking Farm Show, the Watertown Area Chamber of Commerce is maintaining its momentum with a full slate of community events. Chamber leaders Mackenzie Ries (Director of Ag Engagement) and Karen Aiken (Director of Membership Engagement) recently shared a packed March calendar, featuring the conclusion of a local culinary tradition, a massive St. Patrick’s Day celebration, and the launch of professional development programs.
Final Days of the Watertown Burger Battle
The clock is ticking for local foodies as the Watertown Burger Battle officially concludes this Saturday, February 28. Residents are encouraged to visit participating restaurants to try unique creations that give back to the community.
Participants must turn in their punch cards to the Watertown Chamber office by Tuesday, March 4, to be entered for various prizes, including gift cards from the participating restaurants. Even if the card isn’t full, it is still eligible for the drawing. Votes for the “People’s Choice” winner can be cast via QR codes at the restaurants or online.
St. Patrick’s Day: Parade, Prizes, and a $500 Pot of Gold
Watertown’s St. Patrick’s Day celebration is set for Saturday, March 14, 2026. The day is packed with activities, including:
· Pancake Feed: Hosted by the Knights of Columbus from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM.
· Run for the Gold 5K: Registration begins at 9:00 AM at Dempsey’s Pub.
· St. Patrick’s Day Parade: Lineup starts at 11:30 AM with the parade kicking off at noon from the IC Church.
· Pet Contest: A festive pet outfit competition held at Happy Tails K9 following the parade.
The Chamber is also selling commemorative buttons for $5 each (or 5 for $20). These buttons enter buyers into a drawing for high-value prizes, including $500 in Watertown Bucks, a 21-mph adult electric scooter, a Blackstone griddle, and an Apple Watch.
Developing Future Leaders
Registration is currently open for two premier professional development series:
· Leadership Watertown: Starting March 31, this 8-week course meets Tuesdays from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. It includes community tours, networking, and professional headshots for a tuition of $400. Leadership Watertown - Watertown Area Chamber of Commerce
· Leadership Lab: Beginning March 2 at Mount Marty University, this $600 course is led by Dr. Melissa Meidinger. It focuses on hands-on leadership theory and self-assessment. Leadership Lab - Watertown Area Chamber of Commerce
