Frequently Asked Questions
Your Bingo Questions, Answered.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned player, this FAQ is your go-to guide for how bingo works at Giving Hope Bingo in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. And don’t worry, our friendly team is always on hand to guide you through the process, answer questions, and make sure you’re ready for game day. It’s our job to help you feel confident, included, and excited to shout “Bingo!”
BINGO 101
What time does Bingo start?
We offer multiple sessions throughout the week. Here’s a typical evening flow:
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Doors Open: 5:00 PM
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Happy Hour Bingo: 5:45 PM
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Warm-Up Games: 6:30 PM
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Regular Session: 7:05 PM
Saturday afternoons follow a similar rhythm, starting at 11:00 AM.
Can kids play Bingo?
Yes! Giving Hope Bingo is proud to be family-friendly:
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Kids 7 and older can play in the main hall with a paying adult.
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Kids under 7 are welcome during Family Day or private events, but must stay in the back room during regular sessions.
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We recommend ages 6 and under attend only on Family Day or for special fundraisers.
What’s a Bingo Session?
A bingo session is a full round of games played during a set time. Each session includes:
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Warm-up games
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Regular bingo rounds
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Special features like “U Pick ’Em” and our Progressive Jackpot
Do I have to come for Happy Hour or Early Bird games?
Nope! You’re welcome to join us whenever it works for you.
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Happy Hour Bingo and Early Bird games are optional warm-ups before the main session.
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If you prefer to arrive later and play just the regular session, that’s totally fine. We do request that you are in your seat by 7pm for regular session.
Every part of the session is designed to be fun and flexible.
How do I get started?
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Arrive early to plan the package you’d like and any daubers or supplies, grab your seat, and check out our awesome food menu.
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Listen for game instructions; our callers will guide you through each round.
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Mark your cards or watch your screen as numbers are called, and shout “Bingo!” when you win!
How do I know what these bingo terms mean?
- 6-Pack: A pattern made by covering six connected squares. Your caller will show you the shape before the game starts.
- Blackout: Cover every square on your card to win.
- U Pick ’Em: You choose your own numbers between 1-75, if they’re called, you win!
- Early Bird / Warm-Up: Quick games before the main session starts.
- Happy Hour Bingo: Games offered prior to the WarmUps & Early Birds
- Regular Games: The core of the session, classic bingo with great prizes.
- Hardway Bingo: The word “hardway” means the free space cannot be used to complete a winning pattern.
What are all these special games, and why do they all have different jackpots?
Special games add variety and excitement to each session. You’ll notice different prize amounts because:
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Some patterns are harder to complete.
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Some games have call limits, if you win within a certain number of calls, you hit a Progressive Jackpot.
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Some games include raffles, bonus rounds, or player-selected numbers.
Each game is explained before it starts, so you’ll always know what to expect.
What does it mean that Giving Hope Bingo is a nonprofit?
Giving Hope Bingo operates as a nonprofit organization, whichmeans every dollar earned supports local causes and community programs. Instead of going to private owners, proceeds are donated to charities, schools, and service organizations that make a difference right here in our community. Learn More
How does Giving Hope Bingo give back?
Each session you play helps fund scholarships, youth programs, support, and other local initiatives. By joining us for bingo, you’re not just having fun, you’re helping make a meaningful impact and GIVING HOPE.
Can I host an event or use the meeting space?
Yes! Our facility is available for private events, fundraisers, and community meetings when regular sessions aren’t scheduled. Whether you’re planning a birthday party, team celebration, or organization gathering, our team can help make it special. Learn more about available dates, space options, and rates here
How long does a bingo session last?
Most regular sessions run about 3 to 3 1/2 hours.
Can I sit in the hall without buying in?
Yes, if you’re attending with a group, you’re welcome to sit with them even if you’re not playing. The only limitation is that you won’t be able to participate in special games unless you’re also playing the regular games that night. This keeps things fair for everyone who’s bought into the full session.
What are those bingo machines people use?
Some players enjoy playing multiple cards at once, so that’s where the bingo machines come in. This device tracks all of your cards. Then the machine will alert you when it’s time to yell bingo!
What do I do when I get a bingo?
Yell BINGO loud enough to stop play. If the caller doesn’t respond, yell again. A floor clerk will verify your bingo, and if its valid you will get your payout. If it’s not, that’s ok, it’s always better to yell than miss your chance.
Can two people bingo at the same time?
Yes, multiple winners can happen. In that case, payouts are split evenly based on each winner’s level of play.
