New Ulm – The New Ulm Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce that New Ulm has been selected as Minnesota’s 2026 Retail Community of the Year by the Minnesota Retailers Association. The recognition celebrates communities that demonstrate exceptional support for local retailers and foster vibrant shopping districts through collaboration, community events, and economic development.

Visitors will have the perfect opportunity to experience Minnesota’s Retail Community of the Year as Crazy Days returns Friday, July 24, through Sunday, July 26. One of New Ulm’s largest shopping weekends of the year, Crazy Days features sidewalk sales, exclusive promotions, and special bargains from retailers throughout the community.

Whether you’re searching for clothing, gifts, home décor, specialty foods, or everyday essentials, Crazy Days is the perfect opportunity to support local businesses while scoring great deals. Participating sales and store hours vary by retailer. Crazy Days is organized by the New Ulm Business & Retail Association (NUBRA), a committee of the New Ulm Area Chamber of Commerce.

One of the weekend’s most anticipated traditions returns Saturday morning with the Ping Pong Ball Drop at 9:00 a.m. Hundreds of ping pong balls, each marked with discounts from participating local businesses, will be dropped from the roof of Gallery 512 Boutique. Forty lucky shoppers will receive $5 in Chamber Dollars, while two grand prize winners will catch balls worth $50 in Chamber Dollars. Participating businesses include retailers, restaurants, attractions, and even the New Ulm Farmers Market, giving shoppers even more reasons to explore and support local. Following the Ping Pong Ball Drop, kids are invited to stick around for a Kids’ Dance Party on the turf.

“Crazy Days showcases everything that makes New Ulm’s retail community special,” said Sarah Warmka, President and CEO of the New Ulm Area Chamber of Commerce. “From locally owned shops and unique boutiques to restaurants, attractions, and community events, it’s a weekend that celebrates the businesses that make New Ulm such a vibrant place to shop. Receiving statewide recognition as Minnesota’s Retail Community of the Year makes this year’s Crazy Days even more meaningful.”

Saturday’s shopping experience extends beyond retailers throughout the community with several special markets and events. The Mini-Marktstrasse artisan market moves indoors this year and will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Benny’s / NU Franklin. A Craft & Vendor Show will also take place in the City Hall parking lot from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., while food trucks and local restaurants will be serving visitors throughout the weekend. Sippin’ Southern Minnesota, a beer, wine, and spirits tasting event, takes place from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Benny’s / NU Franklin.

Beyond the bargains, visitors can enjoy Downtown Polka Palooza, returning for its second year with live music on Friday evening and throughout Saturday, along with the Growing Forward Mobile Green Space, dancing, food, and family-friendly entertainment. With shopping, music, dining, and activities taking place all weekend, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Whether you’re a longtime resident or visiting for the weekend, Crazy Days offers the perfect opportunity to discover why New Ulm was recently recognized as Minnesota’s 2026 Retail Community of the Year. From exceptional local shopping to live entertainment, food, and family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone.

Visit www.newulm.com for a complete schedule of Crazy Days activities and additional community events happening throughout the weekend. For more information, contact the New Ulm Area Chamber of Commerce at 507-233-4300 or chamber@newulm.com.