Couples in Minnesota looking to tie the knot on Valentine's Day will have the opportunity to do so for free, courtesy of the Minnesota Judicial Branch. Judges across ten district courts will offer complimentary wedding ceremonies on February 14, an increase from just one participating court a few years ago.
Hennepin County District Court has been providing free Valentine’s Day weddings since 2013. Last year, Ramsey and St. Louis County District Courts joined in, and this year, more counties are participating due to the success and joy these events bring.
“We’re really looking forward to marrying couples this Valentine’s Day,” said Judge Bridgid Dowdal of Chisago County District Court. Judge Jesse Seabrooks II, also from Chisago County District Court, added, “Marrying people is one of the highlights of our job. Participating in these Valentine’s Day weddings allows us not only to bring joy to couples but also to show people the courts are here for them.”
Couples interested in getting married by a judge on Valentine's Day should check the list of participating courthouses and follow registration instructions. Appointments are mandatory as each courthouse has limited ceremony slots available; walk-ins will not be accommodated. Couples must have a valid marriage license issued in the county where they plan to marry.
Participating locations include Beltrami County Judicial Center, Carlton County Justice Center, Chisago County Government Center, Cook County Courthouse, Hennepin County Government Center, Lake County Courthouse, Pine County Courthouse, Ramsey County Kellogg Courthouse, Duluth Courthouse (St. Louis), Virginia Courthouse (St. Louis), and Washington location in Stillwater.