The main event space at Farmamerica underwent a radical transformation this past weekend on March 8, turning from a traditional gathering hall into a lush, aromatic jungle for the site’s newest—and fastest-selling—event: Plant BINGO.
The air was thick with the scent of fresh greenery as 150 enthusiasts gathered for an afternoon of laid-back fun. The event, which sold out in a staggering nine days, drew a diverse crowd, many of whom were stepping onto the Farmamerica grounds for the first time. The revelation that a significant portion of the participants were first-time visitors was a shocking revelation to staff. However, Program Coordinator Kari Wadd was more than eager to use the opportunity to inform the newcomers about the vital agricultural impact Farmamerica has on the local region. The draw was clearly significant; some attendees traveled from as far as Fairfax, Fairmont, and Glencoe just for a chance to take home a new leafy companion. The “furthest traveler” and a local birthday girl were both honored with free plants to kick off the festivities.
Wadd noted that the inspiration for Plant Bingo came from an unlikely source: an Instagram reel she saw a year ago. “It was something we just had to try here,” Wadd said. “It aligns perfectly with what Farmamerica believes in—connecting people to agriculture and the beauty of things that grow.”
While the event felt like a casual party—complete with a cash bar serving mimosas and Bloody Mary’s—the logistics were professional. Hosting a BINGO event requires a state gambling license, a detail that intrigued many guests who were surprised by the nature of the event.
Plant Bingo consisted of 11 high-stakes games—10 regular rounds and one final, intense blackout game. Admission for the event was $20, which included BINGO sheets for all rounds, light snacks, and a small starter houseplant for every guest. The unique hook of the afternoon? If you win, you trade up. The prize pool featured a wide range of small, medium, and large tropical variations, including highly sought-after Money Plants. The Grand Prize for the blackout game was an extra-large specimen that towered over the competition. These prizes were made possible through donations from local florists and a particularly generous contribution from the Lowe’s in Owatonna.
The atmosphere was kept light by the afternoon’s caller, Trent Wadd, who leaned into the theme with a series of horticultural “dad jokes.” One particular groaner regarding how plants whistle—”with their tulips (two lips)”—drew a mix of laughs and playful sighs from the crowd.
Competition started early when a participant named Amber won the very first game, successfully trading her tiny starter plant for a colorful, medium-sized variety. The second game saw a rare occurrence with two simultaneous BINGO calls, and a Vicki claimed a stunning new addition to her collection.
Given the overwhelming demand and the success of the first outing, Plant BINGO appears ready to blossom into an annual tradition at Farmamerica. For those who missed out on the first round, there is already a second event scheduled for April 12. Based on the speed of the first sell-out, those interested in matching their BINGO luck with their green thumbs are encouraged to act quickly before the next crop of tickets disappear.
