By Scout Nelson
The Pride of Dakota Showcase is set to return to the State Fair Center in Minot on October 24-25, bringing together more than 100 local companies offering unique, North Dakota-made products.
Hosted by the North Dakota Department of Agriculture, this annual event celebrates local creativity, craftsmanship, and entrepreneurship.
“This year’s Pride of Dakota Showcase features more than 100 companies offering unique, North Dakota-made products,” Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring said. “Shoppers will find thousands of products to choose from, including gourmet food, wine and spirits, books, jewelry, apparel, personal care, pottery, quilting, photography and framed art, children's items and more.”
The event is open Friday from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission, parking, and shopping bags are free, thanks to sponsorship from the Bank of North Dakota College SAVE Plan.
New attractions this year include a Food and Wine Experience on Friday evening, Gourmet Chef cooking demos, and an Ag in the Classroom area with fun make-and-take activities for kids. Shoppers can also participate in hourly drawings and enter for a chance to win a $200 shopping spree.
Retail stores are invited to attend as well. “This is a great opportunity to purchase a few items to try in your store before establishing a wholesale order. Plus, retailers can support a fellow North Dakota small business in the process. It’s a chance to begin a working relationship that could be beneficial for many companies and local retail stores,” said Goehring.
In addition to the Minot event, Holiday Showcases are planned in Grand Forks (Nov. 14-15), Fargo (Nov. 21-22), and Bismarck (Dec. 5-6).
The Pride of Dakota program, administered by the state’s Department of Agriculture, supports over 500 local companies through cooperative marketing, education, and promotional events, helping small businesses grow across the state.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-steve-baccon
Categories: North Dakota, Business