BISMARCK, N.D. – The City of Bismarck will celebrate "150 years of Tradition and Innovation" with a series of exciting kick-off events beginning May 13. Bismarck’s 150th Anniversary community stakeholders comprised of city employees, members of civic and historical organizations, and private business owners, have been developing a series of events to celebrate the city’s rich history and cultural significance.
Bismarck’s 150th Anniversary celebration will begin with a Band Night Parade, May 13, at 6:30 p.m. On Founders Day, Saturday, May 14, the Bismarck Event Center has a full line-up of activities including the “Best of Bismarck Show of the Century…and a Half,” featuring acclaimed local talent North Dakota residents have come to know and love. There will be two shows, one at 2 p.m. and another at 7 p.m., in the Event Center Arena. Former Bismarck Mayor, performer and talent coordinator, Bill Sorensen, will serve as emcee of the shows. General Admission tickets are $1.50, and reserved tickets are $15.00. A Community Barbeque will take place at 4 p.m. in the Bismarck Event Center Parking Lot B. Both ticket options include a meal at the community barbeque.
Additionally, on both May 14 and 15, Bismarck Event Center Exhibit Halls A and B, will feature a variety of exhibits from the past 150 years, North Dakota Historical Society exhibits, a teepee and more. Bismarck Hometown History films will be shown throughout the day May 14 and 15, in the Prairie Rose Rooms. “There is something for everyone. We invite you to be a part of the celebration by attending events with your friends, family and neighbors,” said Charlie Jeske, Bismarck Event Center Director. A detailed schedule of Bismarck 150th Anniversary kick-off events will soon be available at: https://www.bismarckeventcenter.com/events/2022/city-of-bismarck-150th-anniversary-kickoff-events.
Also, on May 14, a “History & Mystery Scavenger Hunt,” will take place. This will be a series of virtual scavenger hunts whereby area residents can explore the city’s history using an augmented reality (AR) platform called Yondar. The platform will provide local and visiting explorers with an entertaining and engaging way to guide them to people and places of Bismarck’s history, while they gather clues to become eligible for prize drawings at the end of the celebration.
“Over the coming months, please join fellow Bismarckians to honor our history as we reflect upon what Bismarck has become over the course of 150 years, and celebrate the vibrant, growing community our residents are proud to call home,” said Bismarck Mayor Steve Bakken.
As the year progresses, there will undoubtedly be more official and unofficial summer-long celebrations, activities and events for residents and visitors to enjoy. For more information and updates visit www.bismarcknd.gov/bismarck150.