Welcoming the FIRST Robotics Bluff Country Regional: What Winona Businesses Should Know
March 3–6, 2027
Winona will once again welcome teams from across the region—and beyond—for the Bluff Country Regional FIRST Robotics Competition, taking place March 3–6, 2027 at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. After rave reviews from teams who competed in Winona last year, we’re excited to welcome them back for another year of competition, camaraderie and plenty of time spent in our community.
For our local hotels, restaurants, retailers and attractions, this is a great opportunity to welcome a large group of visitors to Winona. Here’s what to know about the teams and what you can expect during their stay.
Who’s Coming to Winona?
The 2027 Bluff Country Regional is expected to bring 42 high school robotics teams, primarily from Minnesota and Iowa. Teams from around the world are also welcome to attend FIRST Robotics events.
Each team includes at least two adult mentors or chaperones, typically teachers or industry professionals. Teams average 25–30 people, with some larger teams bringing 60–70 participants.
In total, organizers anticipate approximately 1,100–1,200 team members, plus about 100 volunteers who will help make the competition happen. Family members also frequently travel to Winona to watch the competition, although most typically attend for only one day.
When Will They Be Here?
The bulk of the teams will arrive Wednesday evening, March 3, and depart around dinner time on Saturday, March 6. A smaller group of volunteers will be on site throughout the day on March 3 to prepare for the event.
The competition runs approximately 8 a.m.–6:30 p.m. each day, with teams generally remaining at the venue throughout the day.
And if you’d like to see the competition for yourself, the event is free and open to the public March 4–6. Stop in, watch the action and see what FIRST Robotics is all about.
What Does a Typical Day Look Like?
Because teams spend the full day at the competition, their schedule in Winona is fairly predictable:
- Breakfast: Typically at their hotel
- Lunch: Teams generally order lunch from Saint Mary’s University cafeteria
- Competition: Approximately 8 a.m.–6:30 p.m.
- Dinner: Teams generally head out for dinner around 7 p.m.
That dinner period presents a particularly good opportunity for local restaurants to welcome teams—but advance communication is key.
A group of 25–30 people arriving at a restaurant without notice can be challenging, so teams are strongly encouraged to contact restaurants ahead of time. If your business is interested in hosting a robotics team, please encourage groups to make arrangements in advance so you have an opportunity to prepare for them.
A Few Things to Know About Hosting Teams
Some teams may be interested in having a separate space to eat, meet or gather, either at their hotel or at a restaurant. This is especially true for larger teams.
If you have a meeting or dining space available, let teams know! Amenities such as a microwave, refrigerator, Wi-Fi or other workspace can also be helpful. Any arrangements for these spaces or amenities will be made directly between the team and the business.
What About the Robots?
All competition equipment and robots remain at the event venue overnight. Teams are not permitted to continue working on their competition robots after the event closes.
Students may, however, bring smaller pieces of equipment or computers with them and may occasionally want to work on software or coding after hours. This work does not involve potentially damaging machinery such as welding equipment or laser cutters.
Some teams may also ask whether they can park a trailer at their hotel. If so, the trailer will be empty while parked at the hotel, since the team’s competition equipment remains at the event venue.
Expect Respectful, Engaged Visitors
One of the things that made last year’s event such a positive experience for our community was the students themselves. As many of last year’s hosts can attest, the teams are made up of respectful, kind and considerate young people.
At the heart of the FIRST Robotics program is “Gracious Professionalism”—a philosophy that combines intense competition with respect, kindness and empathy for others.
These students are future engineers, entrepreneurs and community leaders, and they are encouraged to represent themselves, their teams and their communities accordingly.
Want to Experience the Competition?
Keep an eye out for information about the Robot Open House at Saint Mary’s University on November 17. It’s a great opportunity to see the robots up close, meet students and mentors, and get a firsthand look at what FIRST Robotics is all about.
And, of course, the Bluff Country Regional itself is free and open to the public March 4–6. Come see the robots, cheer on the teams and experience the energy of this unique competition right here in Winona.
Want to Get Involved?
You can:
- Join the planning committee
- Volunteer during the competition
- Become a donor or community sponsor
- Connect teams with local businesses or services
- Offer space, amenities or other resources
- Welcome teams to your restaurant, hotel or attraction
Whether you have a few hours to volunteer, a connection to a local business or a resource to share, your involvement helps create an incredible experience for students, and gives our community an opportunity to welcome more than 1,000 young people and their mentors to Winona.
We’re excited to welcome the Bluff Country Regional back to Winona in March 2027. Let’s give these teams another memorable Winona welcome!
