Why Bemidji?
"The Perfect Little Host City You've Never Heard Of"
After considering several options from across the United States, Bemidji, Minnesota was hand-picked as the location best able to create the ideal Unicon experience. We think you’ll agree that Bemidji is “the perfect little host city you’ve never heard of!”
Nestled amidst the glacier-carved land of lakes, rivers, and the north woods of Minnesota lies the historic city of Bemidji, a city large enough to boast of excellent facilities and vibrant nightlife, yet small enough to navigate between most of the main venues via unicycle.
With average July temperatures of 80°F/27°C during the day and 60°F/15°C at night, the weather is ideal for both outdoor competitions and pleasure riding.
At Bemidji State University (BSU), you will live and dine in community with other unicyclists. Dorms and shared community spaces help you connect with other Unicon participants, and optional breakfast and dinner meal plans simplify your stay so you can focus on the day’s events.
As you unicycle on the tree-lined bike path along the shoreline of Lake Bemidji, you’ll quickly reach the Sanford Center. Less than 3 scenic miles from BSU, the air-conditioned Sanford Center will be the home of the Opening Ceremony and Parade, most convention activities, all Urban events, the Unicon marketplace, the Final Party, and the staging area for Road events and the Criterium.
Roughly halfway between BSU and Sanford Center is historic downtown Bemidji, home of shops, restaurants, bars, and a lively nightlife. Looking for a place to grab your morning coffee or indulge in a dessert? From casual outdoor seating to fine dining to craft beers, you’ll find it all in friendly downtown Bemidji.
The west and south shores of recreational Lake Bemidji, home to BSU, Sanford Center, and downtown Bemidji, are all accessible by unicycle. Lake Bemidji’s Diamond Point Park (next to BSU) offers a swimming beach, along with kayak and paddle board rentals. Between BSU and Sanford Center, the paved trail follows the shoreline and passes by Paul Bunyan and Library Parks, which serve as the access points to downtown Bemidji. Continuing on the bike path, just past Sanford Center is South Shore Park, home to another swimming beach.
This Unicon experience, centered on the historic and beautiful community of Bemidji, has been designed to foster community between unicyclists and to create a multitude of memories to take home with you. This summer, come join with other unicyclists from across the globe for Unicon 21. We are excited to share Bemidji and the ideal Unicon experience with you!
Last Updated: March 1, 2024