Entertainment

Thousands Take In The ‘Christmas City Express’

DULUTH, Minn. — The Christmas City Express performances and train rides finished up this weekend at the Lake Superior Railroad Museum. More than 5,000 people attended the story performance over the past month, which includes a train ride on the North Shore Scenic Railroad. It’s an important event to the museum, with the annual tradition putting smiles on kids of…

DECC Dir.: Managing Bayfront Again Ensures Non-Competing Events Among All DECC Venues

DULUTH, Minn. – DECC Exec. Dir. Dan Hartman is pleased management at Bayfront Festival Park is coming back under the DECC’s control in a new five-year contract agreement beginning in January 2025. The council approved the RFP process Monday night lead by city staff who chose the DECC as Bayfront’s next manager. The contract is worth around $443,000 over five…

Management Of Bayfront Festival Park Set To Return To DECC

DULUTH, Minn. — Management of Duluth’s premier entertainment venue, Bayfront Festival Park, is headed back to the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center for the next five years if the council signs off on Monday. For the last year, Winterfell Management has handled all promotions, productions and management of Bayfront with a one-year agreement with the city. Newly elected Mayor Roger Reinert…

Sax Zim Bog Draws in Diverse Crowd

MEADOWLANDS, Minn.– When the temps drop in northern Minnesota, most of the time, you can expect people to stay inside where it’s nice and warm. But the bog is a different story, as it draws quite the crowd during the winter months. “It’s really fun, and we definitely get a lot of global attention from folks coming in. Last year,…

‘Trains and Toddlers’ Program Returns to Lake Superior Railroad Museum

DULUTH, Minn.– The Lake Superior Railroad Museum is bringing back its ‘trains and toddlers’ program after it was derailed by COVID. The program at the Depot is all about getting youngsters up close and person with all types of trains. The fun begins with story time in the Zelda Theater followed by arts and crafts. Organizers say it’s a perfect…

Scores Released For Top 5 Finalists Of Duluth’s Next Tourism Marketing Contract

Council to vote for or against Madden Media of Arizona at Monday night's city council meeting (Dec. 9)

DULUTH, Minn. — We now know the scores for the top five marketing agencies that applied for Duluth’s next multi-million dollar tourism marketing contract. Below are the scores based off a 100-point scale: Madden Media of Arizona: 81.65 Hailey Sault of Duluth: 78.31 AIMCLEAR of Duluth: 78.29 Lawrence & Schiller of South Dakota: 75.20 Swim Creative of Duluth: 73.55 Any…

Stolen Ruby Slippers Worn By Judy Garland In ‘The Wizard of Oz’ Auctioned For $28M

  MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — A pair of iconic ruby slippers that were worn by Judy Garland in “The Wizard of Oz” and stolen from a museum nearly two decades ago sold for a winning bid of $28 million at auction Saturday. Heritage Auctions had estimated that they would fetch $3 million or more, but the fast-paced bidding far outpaced that…

Volunteers Prepare for Hmong New Year Celebration

  DULUTH, Minn.– The annual Hmong New Year is right around the corner and volunteers are rolling out 800 egg rolls and purple rice for this celebration. Every year, the Northland has the opportunity to experience the Hmong New Year celebration. The event is described as a reunion, regulars will often return every year to experience the gathering. The Hmong…

‘Tinsel Tavern’ to Shine at Duluth Winter Village

DULUTH, Minn. — This year’s Duluth Winter Village at the DECC is expanding to include a Tinsel Tavern. The tavern includes 1,000 feet of tinsel, 600 feet of wrapping paper and 36 strings of lights.  As for the tavern, Vikre Distillery will be creating holiday cocktails and mocktails, like a Gingerbread Old Fashion. The Winter Village is Saturday and Sunday…

Minnesota Ballet Performs at Essentia Health

DULUTH, Minn.– After trying for several years, the Minnesota Ballet took their show on the road to spread some holiday spirit. Dancers of the Minnesota Ballet visited Essentia Health and performed several scenes from the Nutcracker for visitors passing by. In addition, they also passed out coupons for the upcoming Friday and Saturday performances. A free child ticket, with a…

On the Farm: Brad the Sheep is Home Safe after Wild Escape

CARLTON, Minn. — After weeks of suspense, close calls, and multiple failed capture attempts–Brad the sheep is finally back home in Carlton. Brad, the runaway sheep turned local celebrity, returned late Tuesday night, much to everyone’s relief. “I still feel like I’m processing it, but being here today is like “oh year, he’s safe, he’s fine, he doesn’t have to…

‘Rocket Deli’ To Open In Heart Of Downtown Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. – A taste of New York is coming to downtown Duluth. The Rocket Deli is under construction right now at the corner of East Superior Street and 2nd Avenue, in the former T-Icy Roll location and next to Blacklist Brewery. The windows were covered Wednesday with the deli’s menu, which includes Rueben, Italian and pastrami sandwiches, along with…

DECC Hosts 12th Annual Junk Hunt

DULUTH, Minn.– Over 150 vendors are gathering at the DECC to sell their antiques, treats and trinkets. The event draws in junk hunters near and far. With some of the booths selling heavy furniture, the junk hunt has their team of “junk hunks” in orange shirts to help load those items. “We started with like half a dozen vendors back…

The Wonders of Japanese Kimono Silks

DULUTH, Minn. — The Needle Art Guild in Duluth is celebrating a special craft when it comes to sewing. The 51-year-old organization has been teaching a variety sewing techniques such as embroidery, stitching and beading. But Monday, the Needle Art Guild is learning about Japanese Kimono Silks by welcoming guest speaker Patty Sampson. She’s a custom dressmaker and designer who…

Special Report: Ski Accident Inspires Duluth Man’s New Career

DULUTH, Minn.– After enduring a ski accident back in 2021, it left 17-year-old Duluth native paralyzed. It became an injury that inspired him to help others. “I became a wheelchair user. And not just a wheelchair user. But I had to deal with the chronic symptoms that came along with spinal cord injuries. Like bowel and bladder management, taking care…

DECC $1M Line Of Credit Untouched, Not Extended; Board Celebrates New Revenue

DULUTH, Minn. — It’s been exactly one year since Duluth city councilors said they were blindsided by a $1 million emergency line of credit request from the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center (DECC). But on Tuesday, the DECC board publicly celebrated that not a dime of the line of credit had been touched, and new revenue is up. Board President Peter…

Special Report Preview: Ski Accident Inspires Duluth Man’s Content Creation

DULUTH, Minn.– 17-year-old Mason Branstrator became paralyzed from the waist down after a skiing accident back in 2021. While conquering those hardships, he learned how to get his story out there and inspire others through his experiences. Now, the 21-year-old has been inspired to begin a new hobby after this incident. He is now doing content creating and helping others who…

Giant Pumpkins Arrive at Pier B Hotel

DULUTH, Minn.– Two giant pumpkins have made their way into the Northland, and they’re getting carved up to perfection! The pumpkins, weighing in at nearly 1,300 pounds each are on display at the Pier B hotel. The giant gourds were grown at Jerry’s Pumpkin Patch in Sturgeon Lake. And they were planted all the way back in early May. The…

UW-Superior Students De-Stress with Therapy Dog

SUPERIOR, Wis. — With the stress that school can bring, what better way to unwind than by spending time with a furry friend! This event is all part of UW-Superior’s monthly de-stress day they’re doing this fall. With having the dog on campus, students are able to learn healthy coping mechanisms for managing stress. In addition, they learn about resources…

Duluth Depot Begins Annual Haunted History Tours

DULUTH, Minn.– For over four years now, this sell out tour has been telling stories that are both unique, and scary. And from the sounds of it, people just can’t seem to get enough. “In October we run our haunted history tours. Which, it’s part paranormal investigation. And part history tour. Also, we talk about the legends and the folklore…

Content Creators Pitch Story Ideas at Catalyst Content Festival

DULUTH, Minn. — Lights, camera and action! The Annual Catalyst Content Festival is bringing together writers, directors and film enthusiasts from around the world. The festival is back and bigger than ever, as local and international content creators share their story ideas. “PitchWorld” returned to the festival, where writers and creators pitched stories that were judged by Hollywood executives. The…

Catalyst Content Festival Returns to Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. — The Catalyst Content Festival is back and bigger than ever. The festival is hosted by the Catalyst Story Institute, which works with local film organizations to showcase the work of writers, producers and directors. The festival will feature many events, from pitch competitions to table reads, and screenings of over 75 productions. And you don’t have to…

Kris Kristofferson, Singer-Songwriter & Actor, Dies at 88

FILE – Actor Kris Kristofferson walks down the red carpet during the premiere for his new movie “Dreamer,” Oct. 9, 2005, in the Westwood section of Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Ric Francis, File)LOS ANGELES (AP) — Kris Kristofferson, a Rhodes scholar with a deft writing style and rough charisma who became a country music superstar and A-list Hollywood actor, has died….

Dinosaurs Invade the DECC for “Jurassic Quest”

It will be roaring at the DECC this weekend as people can go back in time to when dinosaurs roamed the earth. That’s right, dinosaurs are invading Pioneer Hall as “Jurassic Quest” returns to Duluth. The self-guided exhibit is the largest traveling dinosaur show in North America. From life-sized displays, fossil digs to raptor shows– there’s plenty to check out….

One-On-One With Chelsea Handler Ahead Of Comedy Show At Black Bear Casino

Chelsea Handler Live arrives at the Otter Creek Event Center on Oct. 18

DULUTH, Minn. — A-List Comedian Chelsea Handler is taking her stand-up tour to Black Bear Casino’s Otter Creek Event Center Oct. 18.  Chelsea made some time for FOX 21’s Dan Hanger to talk about the tour, among other topics – some not suitable for television, of course. Chelsea, if you didn’t know, is also a TV host, six-time New York…

Sacred Heart Music Center to Host “Duluth Does Motown” Night

DULUTH, Minn. — On Saturday, Sept. 28 the music will be flowing at the Sacred Heart Music Center for its new edition of “Duluth Does.” The music center has a long-standing tradition of one-night-only events dedicated to a specific artist, such as “Duluth Does Elton John.” This weekend Sacred Heart is putting a spin on the series and hosting “Duluth…

2025 Grandma’s Marathon Registration Opens Oct. 1

DULUTH, Minn. — Registration for the 2025 Grandma’s Marathon weekend opens Oct. 1 at 7 p.m. on GrandmasMarathon.com. The William A. Irvin 5K will have a different court next year. It’ll start on Harbor Drive by the Irvin before headed to Canal Park Driver, underneath the main marathon finish line structure, and then ending in Bayfront Festival Park. The change…

Ursa Minor Brewing Begins Oktoberfest Celebrations

  DULUTH, Minn.– Yesterday, Ursa Minor Brewing has begun celebrating for plenty of reasons! The brewery’s 4th annual Oktoberfest weekend matches up perfectly with their 6-year anniversary. There will be lots of fun for people of all ages. Including daily stein holding contests, live music, as well as bunnies and ducks for their petting zoo. According to Ursa staff, the…

Oktoberfest’s Gates Open for a Weekend of Celebration

The gates open for the 5th annual Duluth Oktoberfestival.

DULUTH, Minn.– German food, beer, and music has officially arrived in Duluth as the gates open for the 5th annual Duluth Oktoberfestival. People gathered at the gates of Bayfront Festival park for the opening ceremony, where the golden keg was tapped by organizers and Mayor Roger Reinert to begin the weekend of festivities. Oktoberfest offers many games and activities for…

Four National Touring Broadway Shows Coming to the DECC in 2025

DULUTH, Minn. — Four national touring Broadway shows are coming to Duluth. “Chicago,” “Pretty Woman,” “Mean Girls” and “Riverdance” will hit the stage at the DECC in the beginning of 2025. These productions will mark the first time in 13 years that a Broadway series has come to the northland region. Each show will take to the stage for one…

James Earl Jones, Acclaimed Actor And Voice Of Darth Vader, Dies At 93

NEW YORK (AP) — James Earl Jones, who overcame racial prejudice and a severe stutter to become a celebrated icon of stage and screen — eventually lending his deep, commanding voice to CNN, “The Lion King” and Darth Vader — has died. He was 93. His agent, Barry McPherson, confirmed Jones died Monday morning at home in New York’s Hudson Valley region….

Haunted Ship ‘Creepy Crawl’

After nearly 30 years, the Haunted Ship finds new ways to engage the public.

DULUTH, Minn. — Every fall for nearly 30 years the William A. Irvin is transformed from a place of history to one of horror. The Haunted Ship is a seasonal stop for many Halloween fanatics across the Midwest. Organizers said that this year, there will be even more ways for the public to join in the spooky fun. Steve Rankila,…

Star Wars: A New Hope Receives New Flair

DULUTH, Minn.–Sometimes, all it takes to achieve an opportunity is to get out there and try. That was the case for this voice actor. This longtime Star Wars fan was able participate in a brand-new version of this fan favorite film. And add his own special flair. Niigaanii-Animikii Inini Kalvin Hartwig is involved Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians….

New GND Skatepark Nears Completion

  GARY-NEW DULUTH Minn.– A new 1.8-million-dollar skatepark is about to open in Gary New Duluth. This has been a project 10 years in the making. From fundraising, to planning, and now building. Grindline Skateparks out of Washington state is constructing the project. They’re a team of skateboarders, trained in concrete craftsmanship. For one of the builders, being involved in…

Singles Take On Love With Duluth Speed-Dating Event

FOX 21's Dan Hanger emceed the love-finding night.

DULUTH, Minn. — Love was truly in the air Wednesday evening at Hoops Brewing in Duluth for some speed dating. More than a 100 men and women signed up for the free chance to make a connection. Superior Choice Credit Union, which put on the event, said more than 56 percent of couples said their money philosophies aren’t compatible with…

Town Line Farms Hosts Pony Camp

  CLOQUET, Minn.–Summer camps are traditionally known for camping, swimming and outdoor games. But for one longtime farm, it’s all about the ponies. Over at Town Line Farms and Stable, kids of all ages have been spending the summer learning the ropes of horsemanship. Everything from horse safety, riding fundamentals and even horse science. And on top of that some…