Schmeckfest in Freeman, South Dakota is an annual celebration that began in 1959 as a “festival of tasting.” The event takes place on the Freeman Academy campus, and proceeds support Freeman Academy. Since 1967, each evening ends with a musical production performed by community members.
Schmeckfest includes indoor activities across multiple campus buildings connected by sidewalks. Attendees can visit food preparation demonstrations, craft demonstrations, fine arts performances, and historical presentations. The buffet-style meal is served nightly and has been part of the event since the beginning. Sausage-making can be viewed on-site, and sausage is sold to take home.