Every year, the heart of South Dakota beats a little louder as the iconic South Dakota Snow Queen Festival unfolds at the Aberdeen Civic Theatre, a historic hotbed for community gatherings since its establishment. This year’s festival, running from January 4 to January 11, 2025, was no exception. The festival not only celebrates beauty and talent but is also a cherished tradition rooted deeply in South Dakota’s community spirit, dating back to post-World War II times.
On Saturday, January 11, amid cheers and applause, Katie Leadabrand was crowned as the 2025 South Dakota Snow Queen. A vision she held even before the event, her dream came true as she stood on stage representing Watertown, adorned with the prestigious title. Competing as Miss Watertown, Katie wasn’t just the winner of this respected title but was also named Miss Congeniality, underscoring her charismatic presence.
Katie now shoulders the responsibility of representing South Dakota in various national events, including the St. Paul Winter Carnival and the Minneapolis Aquatennial. This role not only puts her town, Watertown, in the limelight but also underscores the vibrant community life that South Dakota is known for.
Katie Leadabrand
Joining her in the line-up was Everleigh Kirk from Sisseton, who was crowned the 2025 South Dakota Junior Snow Queen. Everleigh, alongside Ava Bjerke from Webster, who was honored as the 1st Runner-Up, showcased the emerging youth talents that South Dakota proudly fosters. The 2nd Runner-Up, Amyah Wilson from Northwestern, also captured the hearts of many by being named Miss Congeniality, echoing Katie’s win in the adult category.
This traditional festival is more than just a pageant; it is an embodiment of South Dakota values. Each year, six promising young women are awarded scholarships, offering them opportunities to pursue higher education and contribute positively to their communities. As the South Dakota Snow Queen and Junior Snow Queen continue their reign, they make appearances promoting awareness and embodying the pride of South Dakota’s culture.
The festive week included not only the Snow Queen and Junior Snow Queen coronations but was also graced by a Talent Contest and the Snow Princess Crowning. Everly Hilgemann was accorded the honor of being the 2025 South Dakota Snow Princess, adding another jewel to the festival’s glorious lineup. With each coronation, new chapters of hope, opportunity, and community achievements are written, enriching the lives of those involved.
Everleigh Kirk
The Aberdeen Civic Theatre has seen generations of talent and community members gather for this time-honored event, with the festival being an ever-present highlight in its history since the first queen was crowned back in 1947. This annual celebration in Aberdeen, a city rich in culture and community spirit, brings together inhabitants from across the state, honoring traditions while fostering new friendships and collaborations.
The South Dakota Snow Queen Festival is a significant driver for promoting the state’s rich cultural heritage and community values. It effectively showcases the potential and achievements of young women across South Dakota, bringing them to the foreground as vital contributors to the state’s social fabric.
Being crowned at such a prestigious platform is not just about wearing a crown; it’s about carrying the honor of representing South Dakota’s vibrant communities. This year’s winners, including Katie Leadabrand and Everleigh Kirk, are set to inspire, representing the beautiful amalgamation of grace, intelligence, and goodwill.
The festival’s underlying objective continues to be alive and impactful: celebrating South Dakota’s vibrant communities and the talents of its young women. As new queens assume their roles, they remind us of the state’s unwavering spirit and communal achievements, and just like every snowflake is unique, so are the dreams and aspirations nurtured here.
Community of Aberdeen
South Dakota awaits the new journeys these queens will embark upon, and as they grace national platforms representing the state, they bring along stories of a region deeply committed to nurturing its youth. The future shines brightly as these queens spearhead representing the essence and vibrance of South Dakota.