Maybe you love the beauty of the area, or the fun local festivals, or the way everyone pulls together to support one another. Maybe you grew up in this town, or you vacation here, or you’ve only visited a few times but it made a lasting impression. Whatever your reason, Minnesota Monthly magazine needs your help in naming the best town in Minnesota.
The competition kicked off in September, when the magazine received 31 nominations for the honorary title. The list was whittled down to 10 based on submitted stories, photos, and criteria set by a board of editorial panelists. The 10 towns currently in the running are St. Cloud, Grand Marais, New Ulm, Hopkins, Waconia, Walker, Austin, Duluth, Bemidji, and Owatonna.
On Friday, October 13, the 2017 Best Minnesota Town competition will narrow down the list of finalists to the top five. The selection will be based on the Best of Minnesota Town questionnaire (completed by nominated Minnesota towns), qualitative and quantitative research, and the popular vote. That’s where you come in! You still have time to vote for your favorite here. Since the voting started September 18, there have been more than 200,000 votes by hopeful Minnesotans who believe their town is the best in the Land of 10,000 Lakes. Each voter is allowed up to 10 votes per day for their favorite spot.
The Best Minnesota Town will receive $50,000 towards an advertising campaign, a party in their city, and a multi-page editorial feature. The winner will also be celebrated on November 30 at the Best of Minnesota Extravaganza at the Lumber Exchange Building. The celebration will feature some of Minnesota’s best food, wine, and entertainment. General admission tickets are $50; VIP tickets are $60. Tickets to the “Best of” party can be purchased here.
Now go and vote!
