Courtesy of Darrin Johnson
Is there anything better than sampling mouth-watering food, sipping on thirst-quenching libations, jamming to local performers, and browsing unique products and services? We don’t think so. At Minnesota Monthly’s Best of Minnesota Party on Wednesday, Dec. 4, you and over 1,000 other hearty Minnesotans will experience everything that makes Minnesota so wonderful, which includes restaurants, drinks, talent, and, of course, businesses.
Hosted at Aria, one of Minneapolis’ premier event venues, the Best of Minnesota Party takes place from 6-9 p.m.—we pulled out all the stops on this one, so you and your friends will want to make a night of it.
What to Expect
If you haven’t had the opportunity to join in on the Best of Minnesota Party before, you may be wondering what to expect. Here’s a brief rundown on the talent, food, drinks and vendors.
Kat Perkins
Kat Perkins, Minnesota resident and former contestant on “The Voice,” will rock the house at the Best of Minnesota Party. Perkins, who grew up in Scranton, North Dakota, moved to Minnesota to pursue music. After enduring vocal surgery, Kat auditioned for “The Voice” in 2014, turning three chairs during her blind audition. Her stellar rock song covers won the hearts of fans back home, and Perkins quickly became a household name around the Twin Cities. Since her stint on the show, Perkins has played sold-out venues all across America.
Perkins has also become a successful speaker, who shares her thoughts on following your dreams and living a fearless life. Her speaking career is what led her to begin The Rising Star Foundation, a nonprofit that provides scholarships and opportunities for aspiring musicians.
Cade Bittner
Minnesota’s own Cade Bittner, a local songwriter and recording artist, will serenade guests with his smooth, jazzy voice. Bittner spent 10 years honing in on his passion while attending college in New York City, eventually returning to Minnesota to launch a Kickstarter campaign to fund his debut EP in 2012. Since then, he’s released a Christmas album and a second jazz-centered album, which released this past September.
Courtesy of Darrin Johnson
Sip and Sample
As you peruse the venue, stop by the impressive collection of exhibitors for tasty samples. We have so many extraordinary participating businesses this year including:
Food
- North Mallow — Better marshmallows
- The Oceanaire Seafood Room
- You Betcha! Box — Subscription box
- Tria
- Pazzaluna
- Spinning Wylde — Gourmet cotton candy
- Sünabloom — Nogurt
- Kendall’s Tavern & Chophouse
- Grand Café
- Eastside Eat & Drink
- Lake Ave. Restaurant & Bar
Drink
- Bronco Wine Company
- Bent Paddle Brewing Co.
- Lakes & Legends Brewing Company
- Soul Boxer Cocktail Co.
- Vikre Distillery
- Bravazzi Hard Italian Soda
- Round Lake Vineyards & Winery
- Sociable Cider Werks
- Surly Brewing Co.
- City Girl Coffee Co.
- Bentwing Brandy
- The Sexton Single Malt
- Milk & Honey Ciders
- Proper Twelve Irish Whiskey
- Jackson Morgan Southern Cream
- Western Son Vodka
- Fentimans — Botanically brewed beverages
- Mathilde Liqueur
- Mozart Chocolate Liqueur
- The Kraken — Black Roast Coffee Rum
- Palm Bay International — Wine & Spirits
- Granite City Brewery
Vendors
Not all of the vendors are food and beverage related. We have several excellent businesses who will be participating in the event such as:
- Renewal by Anderson — Window Replacement
- Go Radio
- Studio Veil — Wedding planning service
- Bunker Hills Event Center
- Project in Person — A DIY Experience
If that doesn’t sound like a night to remember, we don’t know what does! Don’t miss your chance to enjoy the best Minnesota has to offer at the Best of Minnesota Party. Click here to grab your tickets. We can’t wait to see you there!
Still have questions about the event? Our FAQ can help.
