Ready to hit the high notes? Eden Prairie Sings! opens registration

Registration is now open for Eden Prairie Sings!, a local vocal competition that offers singers ages 13 to 20 the chance to perform live, win cash prizes, and represent Eden Prairie at the Minnesota Sings State Finals.

Now in its ninth year, the competition is hosted by the Eden Prairie Optimist Club in partnership with PiM Arts High School. This year’s event will take place from 3 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 16, during Eden Prairie’s annual Arts in the Park festival at Purgatory Creek Park. Check-in and registration will be held from 2 to 3 p.m. that day.

“This event is a testament to the incredible talent within our community, and we’re proud to provide a stage for these young vocalists to shine,” said Ryan Affolter, Optimist Club member and chairman of the event. “The Eden Prairie Sings! vocal competition provides a platform for showcasing their musical talents and advance to the state finals to not only represent our hometown but compete for significant cash and prizes. These events give young people a wonderful opportunity to tap into their creativity and pursue possible scholarships at the same time.”

The competition is open to vocalists ages 13-20 as of Oct. 1, 2025. The first-place winner will receive a $200 cash prize and go on to represent Eden Prairie at the Minnesota Sings State Finals, tentatively scheduled for October at the Historic Paramount Theatre in Austin, Minnesota. There, participants will compete for up to $30,000 in cash and prizes.

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The Eden Prairie Optimist Club sponsors the winner’s trip to the state finals, covering the full registration and offering an additional travel stipend. Second- and third-place finishers at the local level will receive $150 and $100, respectively.

“Eden Prairie Sings! is more than just a competition; it’s a celebration of the arts and the vibrant spirit of our community,” Affolter added. “We’re grateful for the partnership and to be a part of Eden Prairie’s annual Arts in the Park event for the third year in a row. It’s an honor to work alongside so many dedicated individuals and organizations.”

Last year’s winner, Miriam Gilbertson, earned top honors for her performance of “Defying Gravity,” which secured her a place at the state finals. Second place went to Sadie Maguire for her rendition of “Snow Angel” by Reneé Rapp, while Sophia Repice placed third with “What Baking Can Do” from the “Waitress” soundtrack. Lily Erlandson received an honorable mention for performing her original song, “Finally” – the first original composition performed in the competition’s history.

“The talent we saw last year was truly exceptional,” Affolter said. “Miriam’s performance was unforgettable, and we know this year’s competition will be just as thrilling. We encourage all aspiring young local vocalists to seize this opportunity.”

Cash prizes

• First place: $200 cash, state finals registration and travel stipend (valued up to $350)
• Second place: $150 cash
• Third place: $100 cash

How to register

To register, message the Eden Prairie Optimist Club on Facebook or email Ryan Affolter at ryanaffolter.optimist@gmail.com to request an application. Eligibility: Vocalists must be 13 to 20 as of Oct. 1, 2025.

About the Eden Prairie Optimist Club

The Eden Prairie Optimist Club has served the community since 1978 and sponsors a variety of youth-focused programs, including the Optimist Essay and Oratorical contests, Minnesota Sings, Hooked on Fishing, Youth Appreciation Awards, and more.

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