[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz announced today that Northfield will host the 2026 Minnesota Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener.

“Ranked one of America’s best places to live, I am excited to put the spotlight on Northfield as the host of the 2026 Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener,” said Governor Walz. “Northfield is home to exceptional public lands and an abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities, and I am thrilled to showcase this vibrant community as we carry on Minnesota’s time-honored pheasant hunting tradition.”

The Northfield Chamber of Commerce applied on behalf of the community to host the 2026 Minnesota Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener. Northfield was then selected through a process that considered available hunting land, travel and tourism opportunities and community support.

“We are absolutely thrilled and deeply honored that Northfield has been chosen to host the 2026 Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener,” said Jane Bartho, President and CEO of the Northfield Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism. “Our community has a strong tradition of celebrating conservation, outdoor recreation and the natural beauty that surrounds us. We look forward to showcasing our shared commitment to habitat stewardship and responsible hunting. We can’t wait to welcome visitors to our town and share all that makes this special.”

The 150-year-old town of Northfield is located along the banks of the Cannon River, about 45 miles south of the Twin Cities. The community is known for its historic downtown, scenic landscapes, and abundance of outdoor recreation. Northfield has a population of 20,000 and was recognized in 2024 by Money as one of the 50 best places to live in the United States.

The 2026 event, scheduled for Oct. 9-10, will be the 14th annual Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and Explore Minnesota will assist local partners in planning the event.

Initiated by Gov. Mark Dayton in 2011, the event has been hosted by 10 different communities, including Montevideo (2011 and 2016), Marshall (2012 and 2017), Madelia (2013), Worthington (2014 and 2022), Mankato (2015), Luverne (2018), Austin (2019), Owatonna (2023), Sleepy Eye (2024) and Ortonville (2025).