Department of Public Transformation (DoPT) is celebrating the completion of construction with a grand opening event for The YES! House, a creative community space in downtown Granite Falls, MN on Saturday, April 25th from 3–8 PM. 

The YES! House has been thoughtfully designed through an artist-led, community-engaged process. While DoPT staff has been activating the building with creative events (artist residencies, workshops, open mics, performances, and more!) for the past seven years, construction on The YES! House is officially complete and the venue opens its doors even wider as a regional hub for artists, residents, and visitors, alike.

This event celebrates the successful completion of a $1 million capital campaign and all of the planning, community engagement, fundraising, and construction support needed to renovate a rural, historic downtown building into a creative multi-use arts and community facility.

The grand opening event will welcome the public to experience the completion of the space  through tours, a showcase of local artists, interactive creative programming, live music, and opportunities to connect with the people and ideas shaping Granite Falls’ creative future. 

Interactive art activities, gallery display, and live music will take place from 3–6 PM, followed by a program and party from 6–8 PM. Food will be provided by Falls Cafe and Moore Good Eats Food Truck. 

Featured visual artists include Nicole Brenny, Ben Dempcy, Janel Guertin, Sierra Kallio, Brian-Paco, and Betsy Pardick. Musicians include Mike Gill, Logan McClure, Betsy Pardick, and DJ VIRGIL (Virgilio Cerda). Guest speakers include national rural arts strategist, John Davis; Scott Marquardt, President of the Southwest Initiative Foundation; The YES! House architects, James Arentson and Miranda Moen; and DoPT Board and Staff!

“The YES! House is more than a building—it’s a community-driven vision brought to life,” said DoPT CEO, Ash Hanson. “This space reflects years of collaboration with local residents, artists, and partners who believe in the power of creativity to strengthen rural communities.”

This event marks a major milestone for DoPT and the Southwest Minnesota region, contributing to Granite Falls’ momentum as a leader in rural creative placemaking and demonstrating how arts infrastructure can support civic engagement, economic development, and community well-being. During 2025, more than 2,600 attendees gathered at The YES! House for approximately 80 events throughout the year.

The event is open to the public and invites community members, regional partners, and neighbors near and far  to raise a glass and celebrate this new chapter and explore the possibilities ahead.

Open House + Tours from 3–6 PM: Drop in for an interactive tour with engaging activities in different spaces around The YES! House! Snacks and beverages provided. 

Program + Party from 6–8 PM: Hear from DoPT staff, board, key partners, and folks that have made The YES! House what it is today during a brief program and celebratory toast, followed by music and merriment! Champagne + NA tincture bar and cake will be served!

About The YES! House: The YES! House is a creative community gathering space located at 726 Prentice Street in Granite Falls, MN, and is a project of Department of Public Transformation (DoPT). Learn more at www.theyeshouse.org.

About Department of Public Transformation (DoPT): Department of Public Transformation is a nonprofit organization that develops creative strategies for increased community connection, civic engagement, and equitable participation in rural places. Learn more at  www.publictransformation.org.