Staff photo by Clay Schuldt The Willkommen Committee held a special ribbon cutting for Schell’s new taproom. Franz Marti cut the ribbon to formally open the taproom for the weekend Grand Opening event. L to R: Randy Schroeder, Marie Guggisberg, Pam Kitzberger, Nick Metzker, Les Schultz, Franz Marti, Emily Gleisner, Amy Pearson, Kathy Van Roekel and Shari Davis.

NEW ULM — The New Ulm Area Chamber of Commerce Willkommen Committee held a special ribbon cutting Friday for Schell’s Brewery’s new taproom.

Franz Marti said Schell’s was excited to have the taproom complete. The taproom had been planned for many years.

The new taproom is located at the brewery in the location of the former gift shop. Construction began on the tap room after the winter thaw. The footings for the new patio deck and cooler space were added.

Marti said with the completion of the taproom they hope to bring more people to the New Ulm community.

Following the ribbon cutting, Schell’s began its taproom grand opening celebration. Prizes were out to guests throughout the day from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Saturday the grand opening celebration will continue from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. with more prize giveaways. Dain’s Dutchman will perform on the patio from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sozial’s food truck will be on-site from 2 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Brewery Tours have also restarted. Tours will start at 1 p.m., 2 p.m., 3 p.m., and 4 p.m. on Fridayand Saturday. Tours are $10 per person over age 12.

The hours of the taproom will be 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday through Thursday; 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursdays; 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday through Saturday.