Join us for attendee engagement experiences designed specifically for on-the-spot learning, networking and fun. Limited space is available for each activity.
Sign up is now closed - visit the Main Street Fun booth at the Summit for available tickets!
Main Street Community Market
Day 1 | Tuesday, Oct. 29 | 4:30-7 PM
Join local makers, crafters and producers for an authentic Community Market experience. This is an opportunity to network after the conference, enjoy Bismarck-Mandan culture and get a head start on holiday shopping! Come to make friends, meet local entrepreneurs and listen to some great music!
Interest Group Convenings
Day 1 | Tuesday, Oct. 29 | 5-6 PM
Do you own a business in one of these industries, are thinking about starting one, or wish your community had one? Join a conversation about what it takes to create a community that supports local businesses and hear tips and tricks from industry experts from around the state. This is an opportunity to network, learn and be inspired! They will not conflict with any breakout sessions; other concurrent activities include Smart, Efficient Infrastructure Bus Tour and Main Street Community Market.
- Public Health: Bismarck Burleigh Public Health - Sponsored by NDPHA (ND Public Health Association) and NDSACCHO (ND State Association of County and City Health Organizations)
Register Here - Breweries: Laughing Sun Brewery - free food and drinks sponsored by Dakota Business Lending
Arts & Culture: Join the Arts and Culture Community from near and far for a creative gathering at BAGA (Bismarck Art & Gallery Association, 422 E. Front Avenue) Light appetizers will be provided, before you find your way to a special dinner at one of Bismarck's great restaurant. - sponsored by Dakota Business Lending - Downtown Retail: Lillians Bismarck - free food and drinks sponsored by Dakota Business Lending
- Coffee Shops: Brick Oven Bakery - free food and drinks sponsored by Dakota Business Lending
- Local Food: Main Street Community Market (Bismarck Event Center) - no registration required
Smart, Efficient Infrastructure Bus Tour
Day 1 | Tuesday, Oct. 29 | 5-6 PM
This tour will feature information pertaining to infill re-development, Renaissance Zone, transportation infrastructure and more. The tour will depart from the Bismarck Event Center and return at the end of the route. It is led by City of Bismarck staff. It will not conflict with any breakout sessions; other concurrent activities include Interest Group Convenings and Main Street Community Market.
Mandan Creepy Crawl
Day 1 | Tuesday, Oct. 29 | 7-8:30 PM
Bar crawl + scavenger hunt + spooky theme = a night of FUN in Downtown Mandan! Come on out and start exploring the rich history and epic vibrancy of our very own Main Street Community. Yes, there will be prizes! Pick up your Creepy Crawl Card at Black Lions (200 W Main Ave, Mandan) 6:30-7:30 to start the hunt!
Healthy, Vibrant Community Walking Tour
Day 2 | Wednesday, Oct. 30 | 9:30-11:15 AM
This tour will feature a route that allows participants to interact with everything that makes Downtown Bismarck vibrant. The tour is led by the Bismarck Downtowners and will cover topics such as small businesses, community spaces, historic vibrancy and public art. This tour takes place during two sessions of breakouts.
Downtown Mandan Vibrancy Bus/Walking Tour
Day 2 | Wednesday, Oct. 30 | 1:15-3:30 PM
Mandan, ND is a poster child for the Main Street Initiative. In recent years, the community has completed projects related to workforce, infrastructure and quality of life. This tour will include a route that highlights each of these three pillars. Learn about what it takes to be a vibrant community! Transportation to and from the Bismarck event Center provided.
Main Street Social
Day 2 | Wednesday, Oct. 30 | 6:30-8 PM
You're invited to join us for the Main Street Social. This networking event will take place the evening of October 30th in Mandan at Harvest Events (308 W Main Street, Mandan). This is an opportunity to enjoy delicious local food and drink and continue conversations from the day. Space is limited so don't forget to add your event ticket to your registration. (If you have already registered for the Summit, don't fear, you can still sign up for the social separately) This event is 21+. Tickets are $40.
Young Leaders Social
Day 2 | Wednesday, Oct. 30 | 6:30-8 PM
Attendees of the Summit that are under 21 are invited to network and play games at their own Young Leaders social. This event will be held at the Mandan Depot (401 W Main Street, Mandan) and is open to middle, high school, college students and young adults. To RSVP or for more information, contact Ally at amcarson@nd.gov or 701.328.7253.
21st Century Workforce Tour - NISC
Day 3 | Thursday, Oct. 31 | 2:30-4:00 PM
This tour includes transportation to and from NISC in Mandan for a facility tour and presentation. Topics will include methods that have made NISC a preferred workplace and strategies in workforce attraction and retention. This tour takes place during the last session of breakouts. The bus will pick-up and return participants to the Bismarck Event Center.
21st Century Workforce Tour - CTE Center
Day 3 | Thursday, Oct. 31 | 2:30-4:00 PM
This tour includes a facility tour of the Career and Technical Education Center. The CTE Center provides career and technical to high school students in Bismarck, Mandan and beyond. This tour will highlight the value of early career education as well as the importance of giving youth opportunities like this. The bus will pick-up and return participants to the Bismarck Event Center.
Haunted Fort
Day 3
All Summit attendees will receive 30% off a ticket to the Haunted Fort on the evening of the 31st. If you’ll be in town and want something fun and festive to do, you should definitely check out the Haunted Fort! Discount code will be shared at the Summit.