Entertainment

Superior ‘National Night Out’ Event Celebrates Community, Local Organizations

Community fellowship is especially vital, organizers said, as many area businesses have been struggling in the pandemic. 

SUPERIOR, Wis.- With August’s National Night Out postponed to Tuesday, Sterling Silver Dance Studio at the Mariner Mall in Superior held their own event. Live music from local bands Born Too Late and Crescent Moon were featured, as well as hot dogs and prizes from local organizations like World of Wheels skating rink. According to the Director of Sterling Silver…

‘Night to Unite’ Aims to Bring Together Hibbing Police, Community

At Bennett Park in Hibbing, the police were on hand to connect with community members as well as share food drive-thru style. 

HIBBING, Minn.- This year due to the pandemic, August’s annual National Night Out event was postponed to Tuesday, and Hibbing celebrated with their own “Night to Unite” to bring Police and the community together. First introduced in 1984, the National Night Out organization aims to promote police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie. At Bennett Park in Hibbing, the police were on…

Plump Pumpkins, Unique Gourds Sold on Tower Ave in Superior

The stand looks more like a small pumpkin farm with all types of gourds and squashes available. 

SUPERIOR, Wis.- Fall is here, and so are the pumpkins! DC Farms set up their pumpkin and gourd stand on Tower Avenue in Superior, across from the fire station. The stand looks more like a small pumpkin farm with all types of gourds and squashes available. While it’s that variety that Tim W., the pumpkin farmer there said makes them…

Many Outside Enjoying Duluth’s Nice Day after Chilly Week

People made the most of the sixty-degree Monday, knowing old man winter is right around the corner.

DULUTH, Minn.- Monday’s warmer temperatures made many in Duluth prepare for it to be the last nice-weather week before winter, as they got out on the city’s parks and trials enjoying a break from a chilly week. “Love it yes,” said Dave Tedlund. “Especially after last week hopefully we get more than just this week too.” Bike wheels and hiking…

Fundraiser Hopes to Educate About Pitbulls During Pitbull Awareness Month

One Northland Pitbull organization held a fundraiser Saturday to educate more people about the dog breed. 

DULUTH, Minn.- For this October’s Pitbull Awareness Month, one Northland Pitbull organization held a fundraiser Saturday to educate more people about the dog breed. PJ’s Rescue held a barbecue fundraiser outside of GB Schneider’s in Duluth’s Denfeld neighborhood. The group sold hot dogs and chips, as well as raffle tickets for gifts and local art, to raise money to help…

Annual Church Harvest Bazaar Brings Holiday, Halloween Goodies to Duluth’s Norton Park

Norton Park United Methodist Church's Harvest Bazaar was held outdoors this year. 

DULUTH, Minn.- On Saturday an annual Halloween and Holiday Bazaar in Duluth’s Norton Park neighborhood found a way to bring their goodies to the area during the pandemic. Norton Park United Methodist Church’s Harvest Bazaar was held outdoors this year. Fall and Scandinavian treats along with decorations for Halloween and Christmas — all homemade by church-goers — were on sale…

Customers Enjoy Spirit Room One Last Time Before Temporary Winter Closure

The owner says she simply can't provide a safe space inside the quaint social setting, but this is not a permanent closure. 

SUPERIOR, Wis.- A crowd of people in Superior gathered for one last hurrah at a popular cocktail bar that’s closing for the colder months due to the pandemic. The Spirit Room is closing for the fall and winter seasons after being in business in the old city hall building on Hammond Avenue for the past six years. The owner says…

Duluth City Council to Vote On Proposal Monday to Fund Spirit Mountain Through Winter

The proposal would call for $340,000 from the half-and-half tourism tax to reimburse Spirit Mountain for money they spent on their lift system, snow-making equipment and alpine coaster over 2018, 2019, and 2020.

DULUTH, Minn.- Spirit Mountain could see life this coming winter, if Duluth City Council approves a new proposal to use money from the city’s half-and-half tourism tax to cover operation costs. Heard at an agenda session Thursday, the proposal would call for $340,000 from the half-and-half tourism tax to reimburse Spirit Mountain for money they spent on their lift system,…

John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon Hosting Virtual 5K Fundraiser

The Fur-K Virtual Race is Happening Sept. 25 - 27, 2020

DULUTH, Minn. – Like many organizations this year, the John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon is expecting to take a hit due to the ongoing financial effects COVID-19. To help raise funds, Beargrease board members have come up with the inaugural Fur-K ‘virtual 5K.’ The race will take place Friday, Sept. 25 – Sunday, Sept. 27 on your own time. Participants…

Visitors Look To State Parks For Fall Activities

Visitation is up compared to last fall.

CARLTON, Minn. – Fall is typically a busy time for many state parks and Jay Cooke State Park is already seeing a spike in visitors looking to enjoy the start of the fall season. Park staff say they have seen a jump in daily park and campground visits going into the fall. In the midst of the pandemic, staff also…

Pick Your Own Cream of the Crop at Farmer Doug’s Pumpkin Patch

The Hoffbauer Farm is located at 3361 Lindahl Road in Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. – Farmers battled against a dry growing season in the Northland, but it didn’t stop one local farm from producing a good quality yield of pumpkins this fall. “We know that sooner or later the frost is going to come for keeps,” said Doug Hoffbauer, owner of Hoffbauer Tree Farm. At Farmer Doug’s farm, Mother Nature gets the…

Vikings, Packers Start NFL Season With Border Battle, Northland Fans Excited

Fans were excited to get back to the gridiron after a canceled preseason.

DULUTH, Minn.- Football fans in Minnesota and Wisconsin were pumped up for the first Football Sunday of the 2020 NFL season — a border battle between the Vikings and the Packers. The Reef Bar in Duluth was filled with purple and yellow for the first time since last year. Fans were excited to get back to the gridiron after a…

DECC Stage Set for Donald Trump Jr.’s Visit — With COVID-19 Restrictions

The Trump Campaign and Secret Service conducted a site visit and agreed to all rules in place.

DULUTH, Minn.- The stage is set in Duluth to welcome Donald Trump Jr. to the DECC Wednesday for a “Make America Great Again” event. In the ballroom where the President’s son will speak, a maximum of 250 people are allowed inside including campaign staff per Governor Tim Walz’s order during the pandemic. Seats are six feet apart, masks are required,…

‘Tiger King’ Star Carole Baskin Joins ‘Dancing With the Stars’

(AP) – Like all cool cats and kittens, Carole Baskin is going to “Dancing With the Stars.” The reality TV star who became a pop culture sensation with Netflix’s docuseries “Tiger King” is joining the new crop of celebrity dancers that includes TV and film actress Anne Heche, former NBA star Charles Oakley and Backstreet Boys singer AJ McLean. The…

Learn Outer-Space Sword Fighting From Earth in Duluth

Seven Dragons Martial Arts teaches South Korean Sword Fighting with lightsaber-esque equipment.

DULUTH, Minn.- Wanna-be Jedis can now travel to a galaxy far far away right in Duluth, at the Sci-Fi Battle Arena class at Seven Dragons Martial Arts. “I never thought something like this would be in Duluth so that’s why I was so excited about it,” said first-time student CJ Luke. Fitness-friendly costumes are encouraged at the class, which started…

“Pilgrim” Tall Ship Attracts Many for Free Tours, Stories of Three-Year Journey

In three years the four-person crew made their way across the Atlantic and then through the Great Lakes to Duluth.

DULUTH, Minn.- The Pilgrim tall ship that arrived to Duluth Monday on a three-year journey from Russia was full of Northlanders Tuesday touring the ship, getting a taste of the sea. The Pilgrim was built in Duluth’s Sister City of Petrozavodsk, Russia in 2015. It made its way across the Atlantic and then through the Great Lakes to Duluth with…

Onewheel Riders Express Passion For The Adventurous Activity

Learn More Information at Onewheel MN - Duluth Area on Facebook

From hiking to biking, Northlanders are doing all they can this summer to experience the great outdoors and keep somewhat sane amid the COVID-19 pandemic. One small group in the area is branching out with a need for speed, and a passion for sightseeing on one wheel. “If you’re ever bored, you’ll never be bored again,” said Eric Hester, a…

Sports Card Sales Going Up Throughout Pandemic

Record setting sales of high-profile sports cards illustrates the high demand.

DULUTH, Minn.- Just this month LA Angels center fielder Mike Trout’s rookie baseball card sold for a record $3 million at auction. That’s on trend with a growing demand for sports cards according to local card shops. The manager at Collector’s Connection by the Miller Hill Mall in Duluth said Minnesota Twins and Vikings Players cards have typically been popular….

Lake Superior Maritime Museum Gift Shop Drops Anchor Outside

Since July the gift shop has been right outside the museum on the sidewalk, as there are no plans to reopen the museum yet.

DULUTH, Minn.- As the Lake Superior Maritime Museum remains closed in Canal Park due to the pandemic, the gift shop is still finding a way to get little pieces of Duluth memories out to customers. Since July the gift shop has been right outside the museum on the sidewalk. The manager says while transitioning to an outdoor tent setting has…

Spirit Room in Superior Sets Up ‘Wine Stand’ Every Wednesday Outside

You can order a cup or bottle of any of their wines with a cheese and olive plate and take it to-go or enjoy it at any of their outdoor tables. 

SUPERIOR, Wis.- One Superior cocktail bar is interacting with its neighborhood and selling products in a unique way every Wednesday. The Wine Stand outside the Spirit Room on Broadway Street is like a lemonade stand, but with something a bit stronger for adults. You can order a cup or bottle of any of their wines with a cheese and olive…

Families Hit the Ice at Duluth Parks and Rec Open Skate

Families must pre-register on the Parks and Rec website for the time slot Sunday. Only 25 people at a time are allowed inside the arena. 

DULUTH, Minn.-The rink at the Essentia Health Duluth Heritage Sports Center was alive with ice skaters at Duluth Parks and Recreation’s open skate Sunday. Families must pre-register on the Parks and Rec website for the time slot Sunday. Only 25 people at a time are allowed inside the arena. At the door they are required to fill out a COVID-19…

Haunted Ridge Still Going On For Halloween

Opening night is October 9th.

CARLTON, Minn. – All of the ghouls and goblins at the Haunted Ridge in Carlton are gearing up to give Halloween lovers a good scare this year. Despite the pandemic, the terrors must go on, but in a different way. Instead of using live actors, there will be animations displayed to give a haunting experience. Anyone visiting must get their…

Pattison State Park Trails Busy During First Weekend Open After 2018 Flood Damage

Visitors from as far as Utah came to check out the waterfalls along the newly renovated trails.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- Hikers, families and nature lovers wasted no time getting back to Pattison State Park over the weekend as it reopened after two years, after flood waters tore through the trails on Father’s Day 2018. “Very, very excited not only to be on the trails but to be outside, to be around people,” said David Zander, a Minneapolis native…

Blacksmiths Forge Interest in Metalworking at Glensheen Mansion

DULUTH, Minn.- Visitors at Glensheen Mansion Saturday got to learn about an old-fashioned trade — being a blacksmith. Forging Community’s blacksmiths were on the mansion grounds demonstrating metal working and smithing. Glensheen staff say they appreciate having them every year and they are an even more valuable attraction during the pandemic. “For the public it’s always kind of fun to…

Senator Amy Klobuchar Introduces Bill To Save Independent Live Music Venues

About 90% of venue owners in the nation have reported they are at risk of closing without extra financial support.

  MINNESOTA – Independent live music and entertainment venues across the nation are continuing to feel the devastating effects of the global pandemic. As a result, Minnesota Senator Amy Klobuchar and Texas Senator John Cornyn are introducing a bill to help keep those venues from going under. About 90% of venue owners in the nation have reported they are at…

Cloquet’s County Seat Theater to Perform Play in August

Theater will have 47 of its 140 seats available for production of 'The Boys Next Door'

CLOQUET, Minn. – Arts organizations around the Northland have shut down for months during the COVID-19 pandemic. Live theater has been especially difficult to restart because cast, crew, and audiences are all needed in venues at the same time. But now, Cloquet’s County Seat Theater is planning to perform a live show in August. Actors are back onstage for rehearsals,…

Pandemic, Rainy Weather Cause Smaller Turnout at Head of Lakes Fair

Organizers say a couple hundred people attended this year.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- As the Head of the Lakes Fair in Superior comes to a close, organizers said fears of the pandemic and some nasty weather kept a lot of people from coming during their six-day run. Normally attracting thousands to the Fairgrounds on Tower Avenue over the course of the fair, the director of the Head of the Lakes Fair…

Thousands Attend Effie, MN Rodeo Protesting Governor Walz’s COVID-19 Restrictions

Billed as largest longest running rodeo in country, many protested what they called Government overreach.

EFFIE, Minn.-  As Minnesota’s mask mandate takes effect, Governor Tim Walz reminded the state that it’s important for people to follow his directives to slow the spread of COVID-19 — but at a small town rodeo, some do not believe government intervention is necessary. Thousands of people packed the stands at the 65th Annual North Star Stampede Rodeo in Effie…

Duluth Hotel Industry Slowly Picking Up, Hoping to Reach Last Summer Numbers

According to Visit Duluth hotels citywide during the pandemic saw 15-20% of available rooms early at their lowest point. 

DULUTH, Minn.- The largest hotel in Duluth, Holiday Inn and Suites on First Street Downtown says while business doesn’t look like last summer, it is picking up. The staff at Holiday Inn say occupancy is down 50%  from what it was last summer. According to Visit Duluth hotels citywide during the pandemic saw 15-20% of available rooms early at their…

Live Music, Lake Shore Views Back for Wednesday Night at Glensheen

The weekly celebration is back through August at 250 person capacity.

DULUTH, Minn.- Wednesday nights are busy at Glensheen Mansion once again, as their “Wednesday Night at Glensheen” weekly celebrations are on now through August. Attendees can come for free and sit outside and enjoy some drinks and music every Wednesday night from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. This year only 250 people are allowed anywhere on the grounds at a…

Live Music, Food Enjoyed While Social Distanced at Earth Rider Brewery

SUPERIOR, Wis.- Some people spent the warm Sunday outside listening to live music — socially distanced of course — at Earth Rider Brewery. At the outdoor space at Earth Rider’s Cedar Lounge, customers enjoyed a few drinks, some live music, and Thai-fusion cuisine from the “One Night in Bangkok” Food Truck. Staff at Earth Rider say they are happy their…

Pandemic Doesn’t Erase ‘Chalk.a.Lot’ Festival in Two Harbors

The festival continued this year, albeit downsized due to COVID-19.

TWO HARBORS, Minn.- Artist hard at work could be spotted throughout Two Harbors Saturday, and their canvas — the sidewalks. The 9th Annual “Chalk.a.Lot” Festival carried on. “Everybody’s so excited to be here and they’re happy to be creating art,” said Carrie Coan, President of the Two Harbors Area Arts and Events Board. “This is our 9th year and everybody…

Classic, Custom Cars on Display at Airport Auto Sales Car Show

Hundreds of car owners showed off their machines.

DULUTH, Minn,- Classic cars were on display in Duluth at Airport Auto Sale’s annual Wednesday Nighter Car Show. For about 14 years the used car and truck dealer has had hundreds of hot rods, vintage and custom car owners from across the Northland in their lot to show off their machines. According to organizers, the variety of vehicles on display…

Head of Lakes Fair Still Happening with Extra Safety Precautions, Modified Activities

Along with hand sanitizing stations and staff monitoring people for social distancing, certain rides will not be there.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- Setup is underway for the only fair that seems to still be moving forward in the Northland — and perhaps the only event of the summer. The Head of the Lakes Fair on Tower Avenue is set to happen, open to the public next Tuesday at 4 p.m. Organizers say they are confident working with county health officials…

2020 Park Point 5-Miler Includes Several Options for Runners

Park Point 5-Miler In-Person Race Happening Thursday, July 16

DULUTH, Minn. – This year’s Park Point 5-Miler will go forward with multiple options for runners amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Grandma’s Marathon has been working for weeks with guidance from the City of Duluth and the Grandma’s Marathon Medical Director to come up with a safe way to host the annual event. The plan allows the event to move forward…

Lester River Rendezvous Canceled For First Time in Over 20 Years

Annual event gathers about 10,000 people every year.

DULUTH, Minn.- For the first time in more than 20 years, the Lester River Rendezvous is canceled this September due to the coronavirus pandemic. According to organizers, the weekend event gathers about 10,000 people every year. One of their more popular events is the Voyageur Village, which re-enacts an 18th-19th century fur trade village. Coordinator Don Mendoza said while he’ll…

DECC Opens Up For Dance Competition

Ovation Dance Challenge is the DECC's first event since the pandemic started.

DULUTH, Minn.- On Saturday the DECC in Duluth held its first event since the pandemic started. The Ovation Dance Challenge took place in Symphony Hall. About 200 dancers participated between Friday and Saturday and were watched by no more than 250 people, as per state guidelines. Masks were required and the stage and other areas were routinely sanitized. Organizers say dancers…

Dance Competition to be First Event at DECC Since Start of Pandemic

While DECC is excited to open back up, the dance community is excited that they might be getting platforms to perform again.

DULUTH, Minn.- For the first time since March, the DECC in Duluth will play host to an event once again this weekend. The event is called the Ovation Dance Challenge, and capacity will be limited at the state guidelines of 250 people, with only family of the dancers allowed inside, and a livestream provided for anyone else who wants to…

Enjoy the Outdoors This Summer With New Tech Gadgets

Verizon Wireless Showcases the Newest Tech to Help Enhance Your Outdoor Adventures

DULUTH, Minn. – Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, many are turning to Mother Nature as a source of entertainment and relaxation. Bug mystery? Plant ID needed to check on rash first aid? Looking for hidden treasure? Your smartphone can help you do all this and more. If you’re finally headed out to enjoy the 12 weeks of summer sun, Verizon can…

Annual Car Show Rides Through Superior as ‘Car Cruise’

SUPERIOR, Wis.- While Superior’s fireworks were canceled due to COVID-19, some gearheads still made the most of the Fourth of July. Since the annual Dennis VanAlstine Car Show was canceled as well this year, the “Anything with a Motor Cruise” took its place to give motorists a chance to let their rides shine. The parade of hot rods started at…

Pick Your Own! Honeyberry Harvest in Full Swing at Farm LoLa

Honeyberries Have Rippened at Farm LoLa; Raspberries Will Soon Follow Suit

WRENSHALL, Minn. – In this week’s Coffee Conversation, Farm LoLa co-owner Lucie Amundsen chats about picking season as the honeyberry crops ripen and are ready to harvest. Honeyberries taste similar to a blueberry with notes of citrus toward the end. Farm Lola is located at 852 Cemetery Road in Wrenshall, Minnesota. You’re encouraged to visit Farm LoLa online, or call the…

No Boat, No Problem! Friends Paddle Lake Superior in Blow-Up Pool

With snow shovels as ores and a backpack as an anchor, they set out on the choppy water.

DULUTH, Minn.- While beaches were crowded with swimmers, one pair of friends enjoyed the water in another way. They used a kiddie pool not filled with water, but on the water, as a makeshift raft. The “Floaty Floatilla” event behind Fitger’s Complex was canceled due to choppy water, but that didn’t stop Bryce Kelly and Sean Daly from setting out…

Park Point Beaches Packed with Swimmers Despite Rip Current Warning, Choppy Water

Many spent the hot second week of summer on the shore or in the water, despite the Red Flag Warning

DULUTH, Minn.- The Duluth Fire Department issued a red-flag warning on Park Point Beaches Sunday because of a high risk of Rip Currents. Despite this, many on the beaches said they felt safe as long as they were careful and didn’t swim out far from shore. Sunday’s cooler temperatures were a welcome feeling for many after a week of 70’s…

Denfeld Students Keep Up Course Cleanup Tradition Despite Grandma’s Cancellation

Denfeld Girls Soccer Team has picked up trash along the shore the day after race day for about 10 years.

DULUTH, Minn.- The cancellation of Grandma’s Marathon didn’t stop Denfeld High School students from their nearly 10-year tradition of picking up trash along the course the day after race day. “We’re a part of the community and it’s nice to get our name out, y’know get some supporters for our team,”said Denfeld Junior Kamryn Hill. After Grandma’s every year, it’s…

Fond-du-Luth, Black Bear Casinos Open After Three Months Closed

The casino has increased the space between people at machines, and is not allowing smoking on the gaming floor.

DULUTH, Minn.- After being closed for three months, Fond-du-Luth Casino in downtown Duluth and Black Bear Casino in Cloquet are now back open for businesses, with some noticeable changes. Fond-du-Luth was busy on its first day re-opened. The slot machines were ringing, and their colorful screens flashing once again. But before getting to the excitement, guests must be checked. “When…

‘Tribute Fest’ Concert Fundraiser for Homeless Veterans Canceled

Tickets can either be deferred for next year, donated to MACV, or refunded.

DULUTH, Minn.- COVID-19 has claimed another summer event at Bayfront Festival Park: the Tribute Fest fundraiser. Organizer Lou Campbell says the current outdoor gathering cap of 250 people just isn’t possible. The three-day festival usually attracts between 2,000-4,000 people, raising about $20,000 every year for the Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans, or MACV. Campbell hopes to raise money for homeless…

Academy Delays 2021 Oscars Ceremony Because of Coronavirus

(AP) – For the fourth time in its history, the Oscars are being postponed. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and the ABC Television Network said Monday that the 93rd Academy Awards will now be held April 25, 2021, eight weeks later than originally planned because of the pandemic’s effects on the movie industry. It’s true! Next year’s…

Fond-du-Luth, Black Bear Casinos To Reopen With Restrictions June 15

DULUTH, Minn. – Excitement is building at Fond-du-Luth and Black Bear casinos as the official reopening date is set for Monday, June 15 at 10 a.m. Casino officials tell us there will be some noticeable changes, however, to balance entertainment with safety. Specifically at the Fond-du-Luth, all guests will get a non-contact temperature check at the door and everybody will…

Zeitgeist Arts Building Making Plans to Reopen After Shutdown

The community organization has a restaurant, bar, performance theater, and movie theater in their Downtown Duluth building

DULUTH, Minn. – Restaurants, bars, and theaters are reopening across Minnesota, and there’s one well-known local organization that has all that and more. The Zeitgeist Arts Building in Downtown Duluth is entering the recovery process after being hit hard by the shutdown. The non-profit is getting ready for a limited opening soon. Friday and Saturday night, Zeitgeist will open a…