Get ready to explore, interact, and collect prizes during one of the most vibrant events of the year—Art-A-Whirl! Whether you’re an art lover, a local foodie, or just curious to experience the unique cultural scene of Northeast Minneapolis, the Art-A-Whirl Challenge offers you the chance to earn exciting rewards while discovering the best local art and hidden gems.

If you’re ready to dive into the challenge, here's everything you need to know!

How Do I Participate?

Participation is simple! Just follow these three easy steps to start earning points and unlocking badges during the event:

  1. Get Vibemap & Set Up Your Profile: Download the Vibemap app and create your profile to get started. You’ll need your profile to track your progress and collect points!
  2. Explore & Interact with Locations: Visit participating studios, galleries, restaurants, and other locations throughout the Art-A-Whirl weekend. Interact with them through the app to start earning points.
  3. Collect Badges & Claim Prizes: As you explore, you’ll unlock badges and collect points toward prizes. The more you discover, the greater your chances of winning amazing rewards!

Do I Need to Make a Profile in the Vibemap App?

Yes, you do! In order to participate in the Art-A-Whirl Challenge, you’ll need to create a profile in the Vibemap app. This helps us track your points, badges, and overall progress in the challenge.




How Will My Data Be Used?

Vibemap tracks the places you visit, not people. If you choose to turn on location tracking, you’ll get a more personalized experience, but it's completely optional. You can also opt in or out of Vibemap’s marketing at any time. For more information about how your data is used, feel free to reach out to us at nemaa@vibemap.com or review the Vibemap Terms.

What Badges Can I Earn and How?

There are several unique badges you can earn during the Art-A-Whirl Challenge. Here’s a quick rundown:

  • Art-A-Whirl Badge Interact with any participating location to unlock this all-access badge.
  • The Core Badge Visit spots in the lively heart of Art-A-Whirl—full of art, music, and local flavor.
  • Arts District Badge Explore the creative pulse of the Northeast Arts District.
  • Greater Northeast Badge Discover studios and gems just beyond the core.
  • Further Afield Badge Venture to quieter corners to find off-the-path art spaces.
  • The Travel Badge Check in at trolley, transit, or bike stops throughout the event.

How Can I Earn Extra Points?

Want to level up your points during Art-A-Whirl? You can boost your score by scanning QR codes and collecting exclusive Redeem Codes at various locations around the event. Here’s where to find them:

  • “I Bought Art” Redeem Code: Ask the artist you purchased from. You can redeem this once.
  • “I Bought Food” Redeem Code: Ask food vendors at the event. This can also be redeemed once.
  • Sponsor Codes: Visit our sponsor sites—Pryes Brewing, Broken Clock, or Sociable Cider Werks—and ask for a code.
  • The Mississippi Tempest Sculpture: Check out the sculpture at Holland Arts/Yellowbird Cafe for a special code.
  • Featured Artists: Say hi to any of our 30 Featured Artists to collect a code!

With so many ways to earn points, don’t forget to ask questions and keep an eye out for posters with QR codes at every stop!

What Could You Win?

By participating in the Art-A-Whirl Challenge, you’ll have the chance to earn points and unlock exciting rewards. Full list of prizes coming soon!


Ready to Get Started?

The Art-A-Whirl Challenge is a fantastic way to dive deeper into the local art scene, discover new spots around town, and collect unique prizes along the way. Whether you’re a seasoned Art-A-Whirl attendee or this is your first year, we can’t wait to see how you explore, interact, and earn!

Remember, the more you explore, the better your chances of winning incredible prizes. So get out there, have fun, and let your vibe guide you!

Need help or have questions? Don’t hesitate to reach out at nemaa@vibemap.com. Happy exploring!

About the Author:

Northeast Minneapolis Arts Association - NEMAA

Northeast Minneapolis Arts Association (NEMAA) strengthens and supports local artist community with resources, promotion, and fellowship. Centered in Northeast Minneapolis, they serve working artists both here and in geographically and artistically adjacent communities. NEMAA has over 1,400 members, and is best known for producing Art-A-Whirl – the largest annual artist open studio tour in the nation.