Businesses say Anoka, Minnesota's social district has helped them economically.

"I saw the story earlier this year," said Steve Gorowsky, who came from Andover to attend the city's Riverfest. "We've come down here a couple of times. We love it. I think it's a great concept."

The social district began on May 1 and ends on Oct. 5. It's where you can roam the town with a drink in hand, if purchased from a business.

"We ask them if they want it for here or to-go and a lot of people that are going to walk around by the dam and stuff, do take it to go," said Jackie Young, the owner of MaGillyCuddys.

"It has to be in one of those cups and then they can walk the designated district," said Pete Turok, the president of the Anoka Area Chamber of Commerce.

The cups are branded with the city's name and you can get them at any participating business.

"It's helped us because we're a tiny little bar," Young said. "It's great when people can come in, buy a drink, leave and not take up space."

As with most things, there's another side to the story.

"Some people thought it was weird at first, but it's grown on people," said Young.

In 2022, the Omnibus Liquor Bill that was signed into state law included a special provision for Anoka only. This allowed the city to establish a social district. 

Since then, the Legislature has given the "go" to Shakopee and Stillwater, too, but not until this fall.

"It's a piece of the puzzle that gets everyone here, and it's a piece we haven't had. Has it helped? It absolutely has," Turok said.

There's one thing several say to keep in mind.

"Drink responsibly and have a good time," Young said.

More information on the social district can be found by clicking here.