Name: 2026 ND Statewide Arts Convening
Start: 2026-10-06
End: 2026-10-07

The Elbow Room is a lively, no‑frills sports bar & pub in downtown Bismarck, ND, that combines classic comfort food, budget-friendly drinks, and a welcoming, social atmosphere. Their menu features American pub favorites — think char-broiled burgers (including builds like a Whiskey Mushroom Burger), crispy chicken wings, waffle fries, cheese curds, and hearty sandwiches like brisket or chicken cordon bleu. They also offer salads, fish‑and‑chips, and steak options, making it a go-to spot for a wide range of tastes.

When it comes to ambiance, The Elbow Room is built for fun and connection: with 13 TVs, pool tables, darts, and arcade games, it’s a place where you can watch the big game, play some games, or just hang out late into the night. On other nights you’ll find karaoke and trivia — perfect for a relaxed, friendly crowd.

What makes The Elbow Room special is its legacy and vibe: it’s one of Bismarck’s longest-running bars, deeply rooted in the community while keeping things fresh with a connected gastropub next door (Roundhouse) that adds a slightly elevated touch. Their daily drink specials and happy hours drive a fun, accessible energy, and while they don’t heavily promote catering, their flexible space is often used for private events or small gatherings.

The Elbow Room

Roberts Floral & Gift, located at 210 N 8th St in Bismarck, ND, has been a cherished local institution, offering vibrant blooms and delightful gifts to the community. Known for its wide array of high-quality flowers, the shop provides stunning floral arrangements suitable for every occasion, from weddings and anniversaries to simple just-because gestures. Their expertise in floral design ensures that every bouquet is crafted with elegance and attention to detail.

Beyond flowers, Roberts Floral & Gift features an eclectic selection of gifts, making it a one-stop destination for thoughtful presents. Whether you're searching for a unique piece to brighten up your home or a special memento for a friend, the store's diverse inventory is sure to inspire.

Catering to a wide range of customers, Roberts Floral & Gift appeals to locals and visitors alike with its friendly service and personalized shopping experience. Its longstanding presence in Bismarck speaks to its reputation for quality and customer satisfaction. Whether you're a resident looking to add a splash of color to your day, or a tourist seeking a memorable keepsake, Roberts Floral & Gift offers something special for everyone. Visit to experience the warmth and creativity that has made it a beloved part of the community. 

Roberts Floral & Gift

Dakota Stage offers a captivating local theatre experience located at 412 E Main Ave in the heart of Bismarck, ND. This beloved community spot is known for its dynamic range of live performances, including plays, musicals, and special events that cater to wide audiences. Whether you're a long-time theatre enthusiast or a newcomer to the arts, Dakota Stage invites you to enjoy an array of shows that emphasize both classic and contemporary storytelling. 

Its intimate theater setting allows for an engaging connection between performers and the audience, making every show a memorable event. This venue is perfect for groups, families, or anyone looking to appreciate the performing arts in a welcoming atmosphere. Popular with both locals and tourists, Dakota Stage cultivates a deep sense of community through its commitment to quality productions and providing a stage for regional talent. 

If you're seeking compelling theatre experiences in Bismarck where you can enjoy the creativity and skill of local artists, Dakota Stage is a must-visit destination for cultural enrichment and entertainment. 

Dakota Stage

Nestled in the heart of Bismarck, North Dakota, Sanford Medical Center stands as a beacon of advanced medical care and compassionate service. At 300 N 7th St, this state-of-the-art facility offers a comprehensive range of healthcare services designed to meet the diverse needs of the community. From routine check-ups to specialized treatment, Sanford Medical Center is equipped with cutting-edge technology and a dedicated team of healthcare professionals ready to provide exceptional care. 

Catering to individuals and families alike, the center offers a welcoming environment for patients of all ages, ensuring that each visitor receives personalized attention and support. Whether you're seeking urgent care, specialized medical expertise, or preventive services, Sanford Medical Center is committed to delivering quality healthcare with a focus on patient comfort and well-being.

Renowned for its patient-centric approach and commitment to excellence, the center is an integral part of Bismarck's community, continuously striving to enhance healthcare access and outcomes. Residents and visitors can rely on Sanford Medical Center for a trusted and reliable healthcare experience, making it an essential stop for those prioritizing their health and wellness in the region. 

Sanford Medical Center

Blarney Stone Pub – Authentic Irish Dining, Drinks, and Gaming in Downtown Bismarck

Nestled in the heart of downtown Bismarck at 408 E Main Avenue, Blarney Stone Pub delivers an inviting and authentic Irish pub experience for both locals and visitors. This beloved pub combines traditional Irish hospitality with a warm, rustic atmosphere, making it the perfect spot to unwind with friends, enjoy a cozy night out, or celebrate special occasions.

The menu features classic Irish dishes alongside popular pub favorites, offering hearty meals that satisfy a wide range of tastes. Guests can savor imported Irish beers, a curated selection of whiskeys, and signature cocktails inspired by the Emerald Isle, providing a complete and flavorful dining experience.

In addition to its food and drinks, Blarney Stone Pub offers gaming operated through the Bismarck-Mandan Convention & Visitors Bureau, creating an exciting entertainment option for adults seeking fun in a welcoming environment. The pub’s vibrant atmosphere is enhanced by regular live music and a lively social scene, making it a top choice for group gatherings, evenings out with friends, or simply enjoying the energy of downtown Bismarck.

Whether you’re a local seeking a trusted hangout or a tourist wanting a taste of Irish culture, Blarney Stone Pub combines authentic cuisine, expertly crafted drinks, and engaging gaming, establishing itself as one of Bismarck’s premier pub destinations.

Blarney Stone Pub - Bismarck

Pirogue Grille in downtown Bismarck is a refined yet approachable fine‑dining restaurant that emphasizes scratch‑cooked, seasonally driven fare made with locally sourced ingredients. The menu features a sophisticated variety ranging from starters like chicken & peanut potstickers, venison sausage, and a Midwest artisanal cheese platter, to rich, hearty entrees — think Parmigiano‑Reggiano crusted walleye, New York steak with bourbon‑mustard sauce, North Dakota bison short ribs, Berkshire pork chops, lamb burgers, and savory seafood selections like scallops and salmon. For dessert, guests can indulge in crème brûlée, angel food cake, or regional delights like chokecherry praline ice cream.

The atmosphere at Pirogue Grille blends warmth and elegance. Located on 4th Street in a character-filled space, the restaurant features cozy booths, exposed brick, and earth-toned décor that provides a relaxing backdrop for both intimate dinners and special occasions. The bar area mirrors that elegance, extending the full dinner menu and creating a versatile environment for a nightcap or a full meal.

What makes Pirogue Grille truly unique is its chef-driven commitment to regional and seasonal cuisine, using local ingredients like North Dakota bison, house-made venison sausage, and wild rice. Every dish is crafted from scratch, from sauces and stocks to desserts and breads, creating a dining experience that feels both elevated and authentically grounded in the local landscape. Whether you’re celebrating an occasion, enjoying a date night, or simply looking for a memorable dinner, Pirogue Grille stands out as a culinary gem in Bismarck.

Pirogue Grille

Discover the pulse of Bismarck at the Downtown Business Association, located at 122 N 4th St. As a vibrant hub, it connects the community through an array of events, shopping experiences, and cultural activities. Whether you're a local resident or a curious visitor, the association seeks to enhance your downtown experience by offering a remarkable variety of businesses that showcase the dynamic character of the area.

The Downtown Business Association is integral to fostering an engaging atmosphere with its lineup of seasonal events, community gatherings, and innovative programs designed to support local businesses. It's a space where tradition meets modernity, perfect for individuals looking to explore the richness of Bismarck's culture and commerce.

This association prides itself on supporting a diverse range of businesses, from charming boutiques to dining establishments that cater to various tastes. Whether you're in the mood to shop, dine, or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere, the Downtown Business Association serves as your gateway to an enriching urban adventure.

Positioned as a cornerstone of the local community, the association attracts both locals and tourists alike, offering a unique glimpse into Bismarck’s thriving downtown life. Come explore, and see why the Downtown Business Association is the heart of a bustling city landscape, where there’s always something new to discover. 

Downtown Business Association

Brick Oven Bakery delivers daily-made artisan breads, pastries, and sweet treats in a warm, inviting Bismarck setting—perfect for breakfast, coffee, and authentic local baking.

Brick Oven Bakery

The Bismarck Parks & Recreation District (BPRD) is a cornerstone of community life in Bismarck, managing over 3,400 acres of parkland and a wide array of public recreation facilities. Established to provide accessible, high-quality recreation and leisure services, BPRD serves residents and visitors of all ages.

Facilities
BPRD oversees dozens of parks, indoor and outdoor ice arenas, golf courses, swimming pools, tennis courts, playgrounds, soccer and softball fields, community gardens, beach volleyball courts, disc golf courses, and campgrounds. Key facilities like the V.F.W. Sports Center offer public ice skating, youth and adult hockey, figure skating, and curling.

Programs & Events
BPRD offers programs for all ages and seasons, including youth day camps, adult sports leagues, adaptive recreation, swimming lessons, and fitness classes. Community-wide events such as concerts in the parks, outdoor performances, and family-friendly gatherings bring residents together throughout the year.

Community & Rentals
BPRD partners with local organizations to provide joint-use facilities and special projects. Families and organizations can rent shelters, indoor community rooms, and other spaces for weddings, corporate gatherings, youth parties, and more. Some sites allow alcohol and offer flexible reservation options.

How to Get Involved
To explore programs, events, or facility rentals, residents can visit the BPRD website or contact the administrative office for assistance with registration and bookings. BPRD’s comprehensive offerings make it a central hub for recreation and community engagement in Bismarck.

Bismarck Parks & Recreation District

KFYR-TV, located in the heart of Bismarck, North Dakota, stands as a leading provider of local news and information, serving the community with dedication and accuracy. As an integral part of the town's fabric, KFYR-TV delivers timely news coverage, weather updates, and engaging stories that resonate with the residents of Bismarck and the surrounding areas. This station is known for its commitment to journalistic integrity, attentively bringing both breaking news and community-focused stories to its viewers.

KFYR-TV caters primarily to local residents and anyone interested in learning about the events shaping the Bismarck region. Through a blend of traditional broadcasting and digital platforms, they ensure the community remains informed across various media channels. 

What sets KFYR-TV apart is its deep connection to the local community, bringing stories to life that matter most to its viewers. Whether you are new to the area or have lived here for years, tuning in offers a reliable window into the world of Bismarck's vibrant community life and beyond. 

KFYR-TV

North Dakota might surprise you—and that’s the point. For many, Bismarck-Mandan is a first-time destination, and it delivers far more than just another box to check. Here, you’ll find one-of-a-kind attractions and off-site venues that take events and meetings beyond the fields, courses and four walls and into unforgettable experiences.

Plenty of cities have facilities. What sets us apart? The extra. From history, culture and arts to outdoor adventure, dining and shopping, Bismarck-Mandan has it all—right on the Missouri River and surrounded by rolling hills.

As North Dakota’s capital, we combine professional infrastructure with authentic hospitality and a central location that’s easy to reach by road or air. Add in access to key industry sites, walkable downtowns and built-in pre- and post-conference adventures and you’ve got a destination that works hard—and plays even harder.

Bismarck-Mandan Convention & Visitors Bureau

Join artists, culture bearers, educators, arts leaders, and community partners from across North Dakota for a two‑day convening centered on creativity, connection, and community well‑being. While contracts are still being finalized, we know this: **everyone interested in arts, culture, and heritage is invited**.

**Expect**:

- Keynote speakers
- Peer-to-peer meetups
- Artist showcase
- Informational breakout sessions
- Shared meals and creative connection
- FREE outdoor block party hosted by Tom Brosseau!

Attendees will also enjoy a free, public block party with live music, food trucks, and an artist marketplace - a vibrant celebration of North Dakota’s creative spirit. Whether you’re an artist, an arts administrator, a community leader, or someone who simply loves the arts, this convening offers meaningful learning, statewide collaboration, and a chance to strengthen the creative ecosystem that makes North Dakota extraordinary.

Visit NDCA's website for more information (as it becomes available), including speaker announcements and agenda: [https://www.arts.nd.gov/statewide-arts-convening](https://www.arts.nd.gov/statewide-arts-convening?mc_cid=2a684cfc13&mc_eid=f2a0274176)

2026 ND Statewide Arts Convening

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