Entertainment

Italian Beef Brisket Sandwich

COOKING CONNECTION: Valentini's Hermantown

HERMANTOWN, Minn. — In this week’s Cooking Connection Fox 21’s Brittney Merlot heads up the hill to Valentini’s newest location. Their kitchen manager has been there for years and shows us how to make an Italian Beef Brisket Sandwich! ABOUT: Authentic Italian food, memorable events, and exceptional service have defined Valentini’s for over 80 years. ADDRESS: 4960 Miller Trunk Hwy…

Happy Birthday, Ludwig! Celebrate Saturday With The DSSO

The Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra is Hosting a Concert Saturday, February 29, 2020

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra (DSSO) is thrilled to be presenting a concert centered on Beethoven turning 250 this year. The concert on Saturday, February 29 will begin with the continuation of The Beethoven Project in collaboration with Minnesota Public Radio, featuring the performance and recording of Symphony No. 2. DSSO Music Director Dirk Meyer said Beethoven composed…

Leprechauns, Clark the Shark, Snowshoes and More at Glensheen Mansion

Glensheen Mansion is Offering Plenty of Activities to Help Curb Cabin Fever

DULUTH, Minn. – March kicks off on Sunday, but little leprechauns have already invaded Glensheen Mansion in Duluth. The only proof staff has is their little green hats left behind. Staff at the mansion invite the public to look for the hats, with the possibility of seeing one of the elusive leprechauns. Glensheen’s Leprechaun Hat Hunt is happening now through…

Listen Up Ladies! 12th Annual Women’s Expo Happening Saturday in Duluth

The Duluth Women's Expo is Happening at the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center Saturday, February 29, 2020

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth Entertainment Convention Center is gearing up to host the 12th annual Duluth Women’s Expo Saturday, February 29, 2020. The show will run one day only, from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Thousands of women from throughout the region are set to attend the expo with more than 100 vendors, a fashion show, shopping, sampling, a…

Essentia Purchases Old Sears Space in Miller Hill Mall

It is now the second old storefront Essentia will own in the Mall.

DULUTH, Minn.- Northlanders will soon see another Essentia Health marquee replacing a storefront at Miller Hill Mall. Essentia has announced the official purchase of the old Sears Space. According to Essentia officials, plans on what to do with the former Sears space are still being discussed. This comes one year after Essentia purchased the old Younkers space in the mall,…

Old and New Snowmobiles Ride at Vintage Classic Snowmobile Party

Snowmobiles from as far back as the 1970s were present.

DULUTH, Minn.- Duluthians were finding all kinds of ways to get outside, including on vintage snowmobiles at Blue Max Restaurant on Lavaque Road. The Vintage Classic Snowmobile Party was full of classic and new snowmobiles tearing it up on the frozen lake. The Party featured from snowmobiles from as far back as the 1970s, giving their owners a chance to…

Warm Temps Bring Dogs out to Dog Park

Jean Duluth Dog Park filled with happy canines.

DULUTH, Minn.- The weather Saturday was perfect for some pups and their people to hit the Jean Duluth Dog Park. The park was filled with furry four-legged friends frolicking in the sun, enjoying temperatures that reached the low 40s. One dog, a Newfoundland puppy named Boris, was the biggest kid on the playground. He’s 130 lbs now, and will grow…

Finnish ‘Kalevala Day’ Celebrated in Duluth

Admission is free, free will offering accepted.

DULUTH, Minn.- Rita Perttula Wiegel and Arlene Putikka Tucker stop by to talk the big Kalevala day celebration at the Kenwood Lutheran Church this Sunday. Categories: Community, Entertainment, Minnesota, News, News – Latest News Tags: Arlene Putikka Tucker, Kalevala, Kenwood Lutheran church, Rita Perttula Wiegel

“Sunscriptions” Filled on the SunSpot Bus

ACTIVE ADVENTURES: Mobile Unit Geared to Help Vitamin D Deficiency, SAD and Winter Blues

DULUTH, Minn. — In this weeks Active Adventures Fox 21’s Brittney Merlot takes on the SUNSPOT BUS! If you are battling the winter blues, cabin fever, vitamin D deficiency and finding yourself not being very active, light therapy can help you! ABOUT: The further one lives north of the equator, the less sunshine hits the surface of the earth or…

Shrimp Scampi Roma A Favorite At Valentini’s

COOKING CONNECTION: Valentini's Hermantown

HERMANTOWN, Minn. — In this week’s Cooking Connection Fox 21’s Brittney Merlot heads up the hill to Valentini’s newest location. Their kitchen manager has been there for years and shows us how to make their popular and loved Italian menu item, Shrimp Scampi Roma! ABOUT: Authentic Italian food, memorable events, and exceptional service have defined Valentini’s for over 80 years….

Rotary Club Hosts Craft Beer and Wine Tasting Event

8th Annual event raises money for WITC, Second Harvest Food Bank.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- A fundraising event for the benefit of WITC Dreamkeepers Fund, Second Harvest Northern Lakes Food Bank and Rotary International Projects. During the event, there will be a live auction, silent auction, hors d’oeuvres, and raffles. The main event sponsor is Keyport Liquor Categories: Community, Entertainment, News, News – Latest News, Wisconsin

First Annual Rice Lake Winter Frolic Brings Families Together

Frolic offered sledding, s'mores, and cider.

RICE LAKE, Minn.- Families in Rice Lake got out to enjoy the winter day at the first annual Winter Frolic. The event included s’mores-making on an open fire, hot chocolate and cider, a sledding hill and a snowy playground. Ice skating was going to be available as well, but was canceled due to excess snow. According to organizer Kathy LeFave,…

Move Over Downward Facing Dog; Laughter Yoga Lifts the Spirit

Relatively young practice uses laughter to bring positivity.

DULUTH, Minn.- They say laughter is the best medicine, well at the Lake Superior Interfaith Community Church in East Hillside, one group is putting that to the test and getting some pretty hilarious results. “When we start laughing we can’t stop,” said Laughter Yoga Leader Sue Brewer. If you stop in and wonder what’s so funny, don’t worry, you didn’t…

American Birkebeiner 2020 Could Yield Record Setting Race Times

American Birkebeiner 2020 Events Begin Thursday, February 20 in Hayward, Wisconsin

HAYWARD, Wis. – Events leading up to the American Birkebeiner kick off Thursday, February 20 in Hayward, Wisconsin. Preparations are already underway, with excitement getting wild in the region. Ben Popp, Executive Director of the Birkie chatted with FOX 21’s Brett Scott Friday morning regarding preparations and the potential for a record-setting year. “It’s interesting, we had so much snow…

Ready, Set, Book Across the Bay! Registration Remains Open

Ski, Snowshoe, Hike or Run From Ashland to Washburn Across The Frozen Chequamegon Bay

CHEQUAMEGON BAY, Wis. – The 24th annual Book Across the Bay takes place Saturday, February 15th, 2020. Book Across the Bay is the upper Midwest’s most unique winter event, open to skiers and snowshoers of all ages and ability levels. The 10-kilometer course, which is groomed for both classic-style and skate skiing, starts in Ashland and ends in Washburn, and…

Blackened Salmon Valentine’s Day Dinner

COOKING CONNECTION: Texas Roadhouse

DULUTH, Minn. — In this weeks Cooking Connection Fox 21’s Brittney Merlot hosts a restaurant that you can still get into for a Valentines Dinner! No reservations are taken there on Friday, but you can use call ahead seating. Hearty steaks aren’t the only thing Texas Roadhouse specializes in… try their blackened salmon! Check out the video above if you…

Volunteer Snowmobile Trail Groomer In Need of Repair or Replacement

The only groomer tackling trails in East Duluth and up the North Shore is out of service.

DULUTH, Minn.- The only snow groomer working on snowmobile trails in East Duluth is out of commission and in need of repair. While grooming the trails, the Duluth Drift-Toppers Snowmobile Club’s machine encountered an engine failure. Now the motor has to be redone, in order to keep the trails used by snowmobilers, fat-tire bikers, and hikers smooth and clean. The…

Beijing Restaurant Reopens to Chinese-Craving Customers

Restaurant opened nearly two years after fire shut it down.

DULUTH, Minn.- London Road smelled a little more like Chinese food Tuesday as the popular Beijing restaurant finally opened after a fire shut it down in 2018. The place was pretty busy throughout the day. Beijing is known for its big portions at a reasonable price. Longtime customers were all smiles, anxious to try their favorite dishes. “Every two weeks…

The Ups and Downs of Unfrozen Lake Superior

Experts share different effects of the lake's low ice cover, while some Northlanders miss the ice.

DULUTH, Minn.- The Northland has gone through an unseasonably warm winter, eliminating the chance for much ice to form on the surface of Lake Superior. “I was excited for the ice build up and it’s just not coming yet,” Lindsey Ruhnke said. Lapping waves is a surprising sound to hear by the lake at the beginning of February. “I think…

Boys and Girls Club Names Youth of the Year

Annual event highlights young people with exceptional character qualities.

DULUTH, Minn.- Four youth from the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Northland competed to be named Youth of the Year Tuesday. The annual event highlights young people who exemplify the pillars of a healthy lifestyle, good character and citizenship, and academic success. It was established in 1947 to help more youth develop the skills they’ll use throughout life. “It’s…

2nd Annual Northern Pines Sled Dog Race Happening in Iron River

The Northern Pines Sled Dog Race is Happening Saturday, February 15, 2020

IRON RIVER, Wis. – The community of Iron River, Wisconsin, is thrilled to be hosting the 2nd annual Northern Pines Sled Dog Race on Saturday, February 15. The event is happening at the Northern Pines Golf Course and Event Center. It’s free and open to the public. Races will begin around 8:30 a.m. Organizers encourage families in the region come…

Soul and Soul Food Served to Hundreds at UMD

At 240 people the event was sold out.

DULUTH, Minn.- Great smells, great company, and of course great tastes packed the Kirby Ballroom for the Black Student Association’s annual Soul Food dinner. “It signifies black people and unity, honestly,” Black Student Association Treasurer Trina Kwamboka said. “Being brought together to eat by your Grandma, to eat some soul food. It’s a really big thing in the black culture.”…

Celebrating Winter and Community at Carlton Winterfest

25th annual Winterfest featured activities indoors and outdoors.

CARLTON, Minn.- The weather was just right in Carlton for the annual Winterfest. Families enjoyed face painting, animals from Lake Superior Zoo’s Zoomobile, and a chili cookoff. Meanwhile outside they enjoyed “Mini Hook and Slice”: minigolf in the snow with tennis balls. The perfect way to spend a winter day. “People are, at this time of year in Minnesota winters…

City of Duluth Launches New MuniciPals Podcast

First episode received 100 downloads in a day.

DULUTH, Minn.- The City of Duluth is distributing information in a new way with a monthly podcast. The “MuniciPals” podcast started out as a joke according to officials, but has now turned into a new way to give people a behind the scenes look at the city, and distribute information on a wider scale. Following a peaceful guitar riff, Phil…

Hundreds Gather to Love their Local Artists

Superior Public Library's 10th annual event gathers 200-450 people.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- The Superior Public Library was packed with hundreds of community members Friday night, who came out to celebrate and love their local artists. The Library hosted the 10th Annual Love Your Local Artists event. About 40 different local artists and craftspeople showed off their pieces to between 250 and 400 attendees, giving them a fun activity to do…

Behind Bars For FUN! Try To Escape This Test

ACTIVE ADVENTURES: Escape Room Parties Brings Mobile Escape Rooms To The Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center

SUPERIOR, Wisc. — In this weeks Active Adventures Fox 21’s Brittney Merlot and Brett Scott are locked up, in “Alcatraz prison”. Find out if they can escape… Join in on the escape room fun THIS WEEKEND ONLY. Thurs Feb. 6, Fri Feb. 7 & Sat. Feb 8th at the Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center, 305 E 2nd St, Superior,…

‘The Little Prince’ Comes to Life at Marshall Performing Arts Center

'The Little Prince' is a Production for Audience Members of All Ages

DULUTH, Minn. – A classic children’s story is coming to life inside the Marshall Performing Arts Center on the campus of UMD. The student-run production is taking place February 6 – 8 and 12 – 15 at 7:30 p.m., with a 2:00 p.m. matinee on February 9. The classic children’s story that resonates with adults comes to life on stage…

Potato Skins Pair With A Jamaican Cowboy Cocktail

COOKING CONNECTION: Texas Roadhouse Appetizers & Drinks

DULUTH, Minn. — In this weeks Cooking Connection Fox 21’s Brittney Merlot features Texas Roadhouses potato skin appetizers, paired with a fruity mixed drink. Learn how to cook your own potato skins and mix your own Jamaican Cowboy at home! Categories: Community, Cooking Connection, Entertainment, Minnesota, News, News – Latest News Tags: Cooking Connection, Jamaican Cowboy, Local Appetizers, Meteorologist Brittney…

How Can Northern Minnesota Become a Hub for TV and Film Production?

Local film and TV professionals discuss how to make the Northland a regional center in the media industry

DULUTH, Minn. – Movies like ‘North Country’ and ‘Iron Will’ were shot right here in the Northland. And according to media professionals, more producers want to bring their projects here. “We have some of the most talented people in the United States if not in the world, we have scenery that is unmatched,” said Steven Sanders of Ironbound Studios. In…

Escape the Bong 2.0 Raising Funds for Educational Programs

Five Escape Rooms Will Be Set Up at the Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center February 6 - 8, 2020

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Are you feeling extra intelligent or lucky this week? If so, you may want to visit the Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center in Superior February 6 – 8. Escape the Bong 2.0 is presented by Heritage Window & Door. The fundraising event is back by popular demand for a second year in a row. The escape…

Apply Now! Chester Creek Concert Series Seeks Local Musicians

The 2020 Chester Creek Concert Series Begins Tuesday, June 9; Musician Applications Now Open

DULUTH, Minn. – Many Northlanders are dreaming of warm weather, green grass, and live music in the park. Registration is now open, inviting local musicians to apply to be part of the 38th annual Chester Creek Concert Series. The application process is open until Friday, February 21 at 4:00 p.m. Interested musicians are encouraged to submit an audio or video…

Mexican Chorizo Skillet Spices Up The Northland

COOKING CONNECTION: Crooked Pint Ale House

DULUTH, Minn. – In this weeks Cooking Connection, Fox 21’s Brittney Merlot has Crooked Pint Ale House in featuring their brunch menu. This spicy skillet heats up the Northland in the dead of winter with flavor and a full belly. Check it out in the video above. MEXICAN CHORIZO SKILLET INGREDIENTS: 1/2 oz 80/20 oil 1/2 oz butter 8oz hasbrown…

40th Annual Northland Figure Skating Competition This Weekend

The Competition Kicks Off Friday, January 31, Running Through Sunday, February 2

DULUTH, Minn. – Starting Friday, January 31, nearly 500 figure skaters will descend on Duluth for the 40th annual Northland Figure Skating Competition and Excel Series. The event runs through Sunday, February 2, with events taking place throughout each day. On Sunday there will be the Showcase Routines including props and costumes in Amsoil from 9:00 a.m. – Noon. The…

300 Mile North Shore Journey Ends at Beargrease Finish Line

Ryan Reddington, Keith Aili, Ryan Anderson first three to cross finish line.

DULUTH, Minn.- An exciting night in Grand Portage, as crowds gathered at the John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon finish line to welcome the mushers with cheers and support as they completed their nearly 300 mile journey. “The dogs know when they’re getting close to the end they can smell the smoke in the air,” said Race Marshall Stan Passananti. Around…

Cold Front February Moves to Bayfront Festival Park This Year

The Festival is Taking Place Saturday, February 1, 2020

DULUTH, Minn. – Warmer, spring-like temperatures are headed toward the Northland this weekend, but that’s not stopping the City of Duluth Parks and Recreation Department from hosting the third annual Cold Front February at Bayfront Festival Park. The event is changing venues this year. It was previously held in Canal Park, but organizers wanted to utilize Bayfront this year. “It’s…

Lake Superior Zoo First in State to Be Sensory Inclusive

Zoo received certification, and sensory bags to help special needs children.

DULUTH, Minn.- Those with sensory needs can now enjoy all the sights and sounds of Lake Superior Zoo, without being overwhelmed by the senses. The Zoo is now the first zoo in Minnesota to be certified sensory inclusive. KultureCity certifies more than 350 locations across the nation as sensory inclusive, to help children with special needs who may be sensitive…

Superior Sister City Commission Hosting Free Japanese New Year Celebration

Shinnenkai 2020 is Happening Monday, January 27 at Christ Lutheran Church in Superior

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Japanese New Year will be front and center at Christ Lutheran Church in Superior on Monday, January 27. Superior Sister City Commission is hosting the annual Japanese New Year’s Celebration. The event kicks off at 6:00 p.m. and will run though 8:00 p.m. It’s free and open to the public. Participants will enjoy foods, activities, origami, Kimono…

Beargrease Broadcast Internationally for First Time

Over 100 countries can view the race this year.

DULUTH, Minn.- The Beargrease is making history this year, as it is the first year the race is being broadcast internationally. This year the race will be seen in over 100 countries. Mushers on the North Shore trail are competing with mushers in Norway, Russia, and the Iditarod not only with racing, but by the health of their dogs as…

Beargrease Vets on Alert with Warm Temperatures

Dogs more prone to overheating, dehydration in the heat.

DULUTH, Minn.- All the dogs taking mushers along the Beargrease trail, which is softer than usual due to warmer weather, calls for a big team of trained veterinarians. 11 vets and 7 veterinary technicians are stationed at each checkpoint, along with one EMT to check on the human mushers. Vets say while they’re there for medical attention, mushers are usually…

Dogs, Spectators Energetic at Beargrease Starting Line

Mushers prepare for a longer and softer trail, thanks to unseasonably warm temperatures.

DULUTH, Minn.- The excitement was in the air at the starting line of the 40th Annual John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon. “These dogs were meant to run, they were born to run, they’re trained to run,” said Race Spokesperson Monica Hendrickson, the yip of excited race dogs behind her. The dogs’ howls light a flame in everyone’s hearts. “Everything about…

Beer, Food, Bonfires to Kick Off Beargrease Weekend

Brewsheen by Beargrease is Happening Friday, January 24 at Glensheen Mansion in Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. – The John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon is partnering with Glensheen Mansion and Canal Park Brewing Company for the annual Brewsheen by Beargrease. It’s taking place Friday, January 24, with a special keg tapping event at 5:30 p.m. At the event, guests will enjoy culinary creations and complimentary beer from Canal Park Brewing. Bonfires galore will be going…

Spicing Up Brunch With A Breakfast Flatbread

COOKING CONNECTION: Crooked Pint Ale House Offers A Brunch Menu On Weekend

DULUTH, Minn. — In this weeks Cooking Connection, Crooked Pint Ale House prepares us a flavorful Breakfast Flatbread. They offer a WEEKEND BRUNCH MENU Saturday and Sunday from 10am – 2pm. BREAKFAST FLATBREAD RECIPE: 1/2 oz butter 3 oz hasbrowns Flatbread 1 oz Hollandaise 1 oz jalepenos loaf 2 oz scrambled eggs 1/2 oz jalepenos 1/2 oz green onion 1…

Renegade Theater Kicks Off 2020 Season with Production of “Bright Star”

"Bright Star" Opens at Renegade Theater Friday, January 24 at 7:30 p.m.

DULUTH, Minn. – Renegade Theater Company is proud to present the first production of their 2020 season, “Bright Star.” Performers Christina Stroup Manchester and Blake Reistad stopped by FOX 21 Local News from 7 – 9 a.m. to chat about the upcoming production. It’s set to take center stage on Friday, January 24. Other performances will take place January 25,…

Pattison State Park to Host Centennial Celebration with Series of Events

Events Will Kick Off January 25 with a Winterfest Celebration

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Wis. – Pattison State Park becomes 100 year old on January 20th. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is kicking off the centennial year with “Winterfest” on Saturday, January 25th, from 3:00 – 7:00 p.m. The event is sponsored by the Friends of Pattison and Amnicon Falls State Parks. Winterfest will offer a sledding hill, candlelight hike/ski, and…

Less Than Week Ahead of Beargrease, Fundraiser Helps with Last Minute Expenses

Fundraiser helps accommodate for money lost from stolen bales of straw.

DULUTH, Minn.- Excitement is building less than a week before the 40th annual John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon. A fundraiser was held at Breeze Inn on Jean Duluth Road to help raise money for the race, after 200 bales of straw were stolen back in October. That straw is used as bedding for the dogs. The race raised money in…

Minnesota State Fair to Add Metal Detectors, Other Upgrades This Year

Metal detectors at gates just one of many improvements and maintenance for 2020 Get Together.

MINNESOTA- This year the Minnesota State Fair will be adding metal detectors to their gates, among other upgrades and maintenance projects. According to Fair Officials entrance gates will be changed to accommodate fair-time metal detectors. “We’ve looked at adding metal detectors to our public safety program for a while now,” said State Fair General Manager Jerry Hammer. “We added bag…

MLK Indoor Frisbee Tournament Raises Money for UMD Team

Fundraiser raises about $2,000 every year.

DULUTH, Minn.- UMD’s Northern Lights Ultimate Frisbee Team held their annual MLK Indoor Tournament Fundraiser at Ward Wells Fieldhouse Saturday. Teams from as far as Mankato and North Dakota came to the fieldhouse to play. The tournament is how the UMD team raises most of their money for travel expenses, jersey fees, and more for the whole season. According to…

International Athletes Tear Down Red Bull Ice Cross Hill

Riders speed down the hill at 40-50 mph.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- Hundreds of athletes from around the world gathered at Mont Du Lac Ski Resort for the 6th Annual Red Bull Ice Cross World Championship. “Maybe we’re a little crazy,” said Alex Mercier, a rider from Quebec. Blink and you’ll miss the riders tearing down the hill. “These guys reach some pretty incredible speeds,” Operations Manager Mike O’Hara said,…