MINNEAPOLIMEDIA NEWS | BROOKLYN PARK BUSINESS: Skaalvenn Distillery Marks Cambodian New Year While Co-Owner Returns Following Double Lung Transplant

BROOKLYN PARK, MN (April 17, 2026)

Skaalvenn Distillery in Brooklyn Park is hosting a Cambodian New Year celebration this week while marking the return of co-owner Tyson Schnitker following a double lung transplant performed in 2025.

The three-day cultural event, held April 16 through April 18, coincides with Schnitker’s ongoing recovery and a broader effort by the distillery to raise awareness for organ donation.

Cambodian New Year Programming

The distillery’s cocktail room, located at 8601 73rd Ave N, Suite 14, has been adapted to reflect Cambodian cultural themes in recognition of co-owner Mary Schnitker’s heritage as the daughter of Cambodian refugees.

Programming includes a specialty food and beverage menu developed by bar manager Luke Young, who previously lived in Cambodia for an extended period.

Menu offerings include:

• Cambodian-style egg rolls
• Papaya salad
• Khmer-inspired fusion items, including specialty hot dog variations

A featured cocktail, “Kra-op,” is built around aromatic botanicals associated with Southeast Asian flavors.

The space is also decorated with Cambodian cultural elements, including national imagery, as part of the event’s presentation.

Event Details
Venue: Skaalvenn Distillery
Address: 8601 73rd Ave N, Suite 14, Brooklyn Park, MN
Dates: April 16–18, 2026
Cost: No cover charge; standard menu pricing applies

Co-Owner Recovery Following Transplant

The event takes place less than a year after Tyson Schnitker underwent a double lung transplant in June 2025 following a diagnosis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

According to published reports, the procedure lasted approximately seven hours and was performed shortly after a donor match became available.

Schnitker has since returned to the distillery in a limited capacity. Due to post-transplant medical requirements, including ongoing anti-rejection treatment, he is no longer able to consume alcohol.

Public statements from Schnitker indicate that his focus remains on long-term recovery and family life following the procedure.

Organ Donation Awareness Effort

In connection with National Donate Life Month, the distillery is offering a 10 percent discount throughout April to customers who are registered organ donors.

The initiative is intended to recognize organ donation and encourage broader public participation in donor registration programs.

Business and Community Context

Skaalvenn Distillery operates a cocktail room in Brooklyn Park and is known for rotating menus and themed programming.

The Cambodian New Year event reflects a broader approach among local hospitality businesses to incorporate cultural programming into regular operations, while also serving as a point of engagement for community members.

Context

Cambodian New Year, also known as Choul Chnam Thmey, is a three-day celebration marking the traditional solar new year in Cambodia. Observances typically include food, cultural displays, and community gatherings.

In Minnesota, home to a significant Southeast Asian population, local celebrations are often integrated into community and business spaces.

MinneapoliMedia | Community. Culture. Civic Life.