2026 Great American Think-Off

All are welcome to attend the 33rd annual Great American Think-Off debate on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at the New York Mills School Auditorium.

The 2026 Think-Off Question will be announced in January 2026.

Get advance tickets now to join the audience in listening to the top four essayists debate their positions on this question.

Audience members vote to determine the winner in three rounds of debate, eventually selecting America's Greatest Thinker for 2026. Don't miss your chance to be part of this unique exercise in civil discourse!

The Think-Off is an exhibition of civil disagreement between powerful ideas that connect to your life at the gut level. The Cultural Center, located in the rural farming and manufacturing town of New York Mills, sponsors this annual philosophy contest.

People of all ages and backgrounds are encouraged to submit an essay of no more than 750 words for a chance to win one of four $500 cash prizes and participate in the live debate to ultimately answer the question, determined by audience vote.

The deadline to submit essays is April 1. The four finalists will be chosen by May 1 and will travel to New York Mills, MN to debate the topic before a live audience on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. at the New York Mills Public School Auditorium.

Immediately following the debate, all are invited to a reception at the Cultural Center for a chance to continue the discussion with the finalists and other attendees.

Learn more:
https://www.kulcher.org/think-off/the-great-americ...

Submit your essay:
kulcher.org/think-off/submit-your-essay/

Adult tickets are $15 in advance or $20 at the door. Student tickets are $5.

Call the Cultural Center with questions at 218-385-3339.