ROCHESTER, Minn. (KTTC) – With nearly 4,500 visitors expected in Rochester this weekend, downtown businesses are preparing for a noticeable jump in foot traffic as the DFL state convention comes to town.
Organizers say the convention is expected to bring in more than 1,000 attendees each day. While meetings and events will be based at Mayo Civic Center, local leaders say the impact goes beyond the venue—reaching hotels, restaurants, bars, and shops throughout the community.
Rochester last hosted the DFL state convention in 2022, and businesses are hoping for another strong weekend.
The event is projected to generate close to $1 million in local economic impact, giving a boost to many small business owners in the Med City.
Bill Von Bank, Vice President of Communications and Marketing for Experience Rochester, said conventions like this can make a real difference for local operators.
“A lot of these businesses are small businesses, small operators, so it really does impact their bottom line in a good way when we can have this business here.”
Downtown restaurants are also staffing up in anticipation of the crowds. Josh Laber, Assistant General Manager at Olde Brick House, said they’re ready for the added energy the weekend can bring.
“Sometimes we will get two or three weekends in a row, and then we kinda won’t get some for a couple weeks. So, when we get one, we always make sure to step up to the challenge.”
The DFL convention in Rochester is set to be called to order Friday afternoon and will run through the weekend.
Meanwhile, the GOP state convention will take place in Duluth.
Find stories like this and more, in our apps.
Copyright 2026 KTTC. All rights reserved.
Dining and Cooking