BISMARCK, N.D. – A group of 35 community members representing a broad cross section of the Bismarck community participated in a meeting today organized by the city of Bismarck to make plans to celebrate Bismarck’s anniversary or sesquicentennial, 150 years since the city was founded. The city was established on May 14, 1872. 

Mayor Steve Bakken issued a proclamation designating 2022 as a celebration of the 150th anniversary and the City Commission asked Assistant City Administrator Jason Tomanek to organize a committee to develop plans for the celebration.

Tomanek said the city’s goal is to facilitate and encourage community conversations connecting individuals, organizations and businesses to develop ways to celebrate Bismarck’s 150th anniversary and rich history throughout the summer of 2022.   

Eight subcommittees were established and community stakeholders in attendance were assigned to subcommittees that included: arts and culture, business representatives, communications and media, food and beverage, fund raising and resources, history, music and entertainment, and sports and leisure. “There was a lot of excitement in the room where lively and engaging conversations took place in each group as they reported the outcome of their conversations. Many creative ideas were generated at the meeting today,” said Tomanek.

Preliminary plans are in place to create a web site landing page for the city’s 150th anniversary with links to resources, and a media kit and brand standards to help promote the celebration by co-branding new and existing community events. The community stakeholder group plans to meet again within the next three to four weeks to move forward with plans and activities to celebrate Bismarck’s 150th Birthday and rich heritage.