The City of Stillwater is exploring the creation of a downtown social district, a designated area where individuals can purchase and consume alcoholic beverages while walking through the defined zone. This initiative follows authorization granted by the Minnesota Legislature in 2024, permitting Stillwater to establish such a district.
City staff are actively seeking feedback from residents and local businesses to assess the viability and community interest in implementing a social district. During June and July, the city is conducting a survey and hosting a public open house to gather input. The open house is scheduled for Wednesday, July 16, 2025, from 4 to 6 p.m. in the Margaret Rivers Room at the Stillwater Library.
The proposed social district would likely encompass the downtown area, extending from the St. Croix River a few blocks westward. Specific boundaries, as well as the days and hours of operation, would be determined based on community feedback and further planning.
In a social district, licensed establishments would sell alcoholic beverages in official containers, which patrons could then consume within the district’s public spaces, including sidewalks and parks. Participating retail businesses could also allow patrons to bring these beverages into their establishments.
Following the community engagement period, city staff will present a summary of the feedback to the City Council on August 5, 2025. If the decision is made to proceed, a pilot program could be launched in the fall of 2025, with a full implementation potentially beginning in the spring of 2026.
Residents and business owners are encouraged to participate in the survey and attend the open house to share their perspectives on this initiative.