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Member Highlight: Owatonna partnership brings fun for everyone!

Below is a contribution from GMPT Member the City of Owatonna. For more information, please visit owatonna.gov.


It Pays to Partner!

Owatonna Parks & Recreation partners each year with the Owatonna Chamber of Commerce and Main Street to provide a wide range of events for the public. These summer events showcase the historic and beautiful Central Park, entertaining people of all ages!

11 at 7 — Owatonna Business Partnership and Main Street bring 11 nights of entertainment featuring local acts to Central Park during the warmer months, each one kicking off at 7 PM. It’s the perfect way to enjoy great performances, soak up the lively atmosphere, and connect with the community.

Farmer’s Market — The city provides the park; the vendors provide the product, and Main Street brings the entertainment several times throughout the summer.

Cinco de Mayo — Alliance for Greater Equity and Main Street host Cinco de Mayo for the entire community. Enjoy Hispanic music, traditional food and beverages, and fun activities for kids, like bounce houses, face painting, and train rides. It’s a great way to experience culture, meet others, and enjoy a fantastic day.

Downtown Thursdays — On the first Thursday of June, July, August, and September, Downtown Owatonna comes alive with Downtown Thursdays!  Stroll through street vendors, savor local food and drink options, enjoy live entertainment, and let the kids have a blast with free activities. This event attracts an average of 3000 attendees.

Gem Days — In August, Owatonna Business Partnership, along with Main Street, hosts a weekend of fun! Enjoy downtown sales, live music, food trucks, and vendors. Plus, take part in Kids Day, which is packed with excitement, including a parade, activities in the park, contests, and more.

Other park-centered events and collaborations include the hanging of flower baskets, the holiday-lighted parade, summer and winter weekends out, Bold & Cold, and much more! Establishing a great relationship between the city’s Parks & Recreation Department and the Chamber of Commerce has really enhanced the park and opportunities for citizens and visitors alike!

Contributing Authors:

Lisa Cochran, Owatonna Main Street

Mary Jo Knudson, Owatonna Parks & Recreation