Anoka will soon be implementing Minnesota’s first pilot social district. In May of 2022 the State Legislature passed a law allowing Anoka to set up the first social district in the state. Anoka is following in the footsteps of Cornelius, NC, where a successful temporary social district was first established for Saint Patrick’s Day in 2022.
A Social District is a specific area within a town, where alcohol can be consumed in public. The Social District for Anoka will be in downtown Anoka, and will consist of Jackson St, part of 1st Ave., and part of 2nd Ave. Bars will be able to get a special license to sell alcoholic beverages in specific cups that can be taken outside during special events. For folks coming in October to the Halloween Capital of the World, this is a great way to add a little extra fun to the events in town, and continue to drive tourism business in the city.
The City Council will be having further discussions about the management and maintenance of the Social District at the council meeting on August 21st, with the intention of a trial period beginning September 6th and continuing through October 7th. We will be keeping an eye on this as it develops, please check back for more information after the City Council Meeting.
It is important to note that the Social District is specifically for beverages purchased from licensed vendors in the district. You cannot bring your own alcoholic beverages in, and you cannot leave the district with your purchased beverages.
Even if you are enjoying a few drinks, you are still in public and should behave as such. Plan a sober ride to avoid a DWI charge, know where your bathrooms are so you don’t get cited for public urination, make sure not to break anything so you aren’t responsible for property damage, and while you can have plenty of fun, don’t get rowdy enough to be charged with Disorderly Conduct or Assault.
If you do find yourself on the wrong side of Johnny Law, please give us a call at 763-421-6366 for a free case evaluation.