An artist’s conception of the finished amphitheater in German Park

Construction has finally begun on the German Park Performing Arts Amphitheater. Completion is expected in late summer. Planning for this project by the Friends of German Park and the City of New Ulm has taken a decade.

German Park dates to the origins of New Ulm in the 1850’s and was designated in the original plat. Since then, the park has always been a focal point of community gatherings. The park went through a significant redevelopment in the 1990’s. First, the master plan for the park was updated through a public process. Elements of the master plan include: modern restrooms, improved kinder castle playground, bandstand restoration, flower garden, angel fountain, pergola, large and small picnic shelters, grand staircase from German Street, schwarzwald (black forest) and accessible trail, art sculptures, and performing arts amphitheater. All these elements have been completed, except for the performing arts amphitheater. Finally, thanks to many generous donors and city funding, the amphitheater will become our premier outdoor performing arts venue.

The earthen, partially terraced slope is the location where the amphitheater is being constructed. This slope for spectators, was not accessible to the mobility impaired. The new amphitheater will be accessible to everyone.

Future activities in this outdoor performing arts amphitheater include: concerts in the park, theatrical performances, movies in the park, community events such as National Night Out, weddings, receptions, corporate events and many other special events and festivals.

Fundraising for this $1,200,000 project began in 2014 and as of today $913,000 has been raised. Recently, we have finally gotten close to the goal. An anonymous donor has just pledged $100,000 in matching funds through June 30. The next donations, up to $100,000 will be matched by this donor. The shade structure, along the top accessible row, is not yet funded. $287,000 is still needed for the shade structure. Please consider donating to complete this project. Naming rights and recognition signage are available for various levels of donations. Any donation amount is encouraged and accepted. Cash or checks made out to “City of New Ulm Amphitheater” should be directed to the Recreation Center (Vogel Fieldhouse) at 122 South Garden Street New Ulm MN 56073. For credit card donations, please call 507-359-8340. Questions and inquires can be directed to Tom Schmitz at 233-2121 extension 202 or email toms@newulmmn.gov or click on the “German Park Amphitheater” tab on the left side of our website homepage: newulmmn.gov

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Editor’s Note: The City of New Ulm presents a weekly column highlighting activities in different departments in the city government. Once a month the city will answer questions from readers. Questions on New Ulm city issues can be sent to comments@ci.new-ulm.mn.us.