ANOKA, Minn. — Editor's note: The video above first aired on Sept. 6, 2023.
Social opportunities should be plentiful in Anoka this spring, summer and fall, as city leaders expand on a pilot program that debuted on the city's riverfront last year allowing visitors to drink alcoholic beverages in public.
Anoka announced that a five-month Social District pilot program will be in place starting May 1 and ending Oct. 6. It allows visitors 21 and older to buy beer, wine and cocktails at approved vendors and then take them outside while wandering a defined area of streets, sidewalks, parks and other common areas.
The boundaries of the 2024 Social District now extend north along the Rum River from E. Main St. to Harrison St., and then east along Jackson St. to 3rd Ave. To increase pedestrian safety in crossing Main Street, the tunnel under the Main Street Bridge is now included in the district, along with the municipal parking lot at Bridge Square.
Here is a list of establishments that are currently licensed to participate in the 2024 Social District program and activities.
- 10K Brewing - 2005 2nd Ave.
- 201 Tavern & Grill - 201 Jackson St. #102
- Ambi Wine Bar - 2015 2nd Ave.
- Anoka Hardware Store - 201 Jackson St. #101
- Casa Rio Tex Mex - 201 Jackson St
- Club 300 & Nucky’s Speakeasy - 300 E. Main St.
- Ibiza West - 227 E. Main St.
- MaGillycuddy’s - 2016 1st Ave.
- Serum's Good Time Emporium - 213 Jackson St.
Organizers say window clings will be displayed at each business licensed as part of the Social District. Those not taking part can display a different window cling indicating whether they welcome social district cups inside their establishment.
Signs will indicate where patrons have to stop if they are carrying alcoholic beverages or face sanctions.
The expanded Social District calendar comes after what city leaders call a successful 30-day trial run last summer. Music and other events will take place in the district throughout the spring, summer and fall.
For more information on Anoka's expanded Social District program, including rules for taking part, check out the city's website.
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