Entertainment

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…

Perfect Weather For 3rd-Annual Scottish Scramble

DULUTH, Minn.– The third-annual Scottish Scramble kicked off with a bang on Monday! A cannon fired sending off the participants to begin the tournament. More than 100 golfers teed up at the Ridgeview Golf Course in Duluth.  There was plenty of Scottish flair with St. Andrews flags decorating the carts, and golf cups. It’s all about sharing their culture, while…

Organizers Cancel Taylor Swift Concerts In Vienna Over Fears Of An Attack

VIENNA (AP) — Organizers of three Taylor Swift concerts in Vienna this week called them off on Wednesday after officials announced arrests over an apparent plot to launch an attack on an event in the Vienna area such as the concerts. Swift was scheduled to play at the Austrian capital’s Ernst Happel Stadium on Thursday, Friday and Saturday as part…

Barbie: A Cultural Icon Exhibition at the DECC

DULUTH, Minn. — A one-of-a-kind interactive exhibit has opened at the DECC featuring Mattel’s most iconic female figure. You guessed it. We’re talking about the famous Barbie. The iconic toy has taken over Paulucci Hall displaying 65 years of history and cultural impact of Barbie. You can check out vintage dolls, life-sized fashion designs, barbie boxes, and you can even…

Barbie Exhibition Coming Soon to Duluth

DULUTH, Minn.– The doll that has it all is being showcased in Duluth for the upcoming Barbie Exhibition. The upcoming event that highlights all things Barbie is right around the corner. There will be more than 300 vintage artifacts for guests to check out. In addition, there are plenty of photo opportunities to interact with. From the mirror pink Corvette,…

Upcoming Pop Culture Convention Happening in Duluth

DULUTH, Minn.– A gathering encouraging self-expression, connecting, and bonding over similar hobbies and passions. That’s the goal for this upcoming event in the Northland. It is no secret there is a lack of pop culture conventions in Duluth. But soon enough, there will be one right in town. The second annual Teeb Con will be showcasing pop culture, comic, and…

Temporary Plan Unveiled To Battle Overheating At DECC Arena

DULUTH, Minn. — After two recent weekends of unbearable heat inside the DECC Arena, Exec. Dir. Dan Hartman says he’s made the “tough decision” to rent a temporary AC unit until $2.8 million in state bonding money can be used to install a modern-day AC system for that side of the DECC. Hartman said the project could take up to…

FinnFest Kicks Off Festivities With Floorball

DULUTH, Minn.– FinnFest began by introducing an exciting sport to their lineup of activities. Duluth is gearing up for a weekend filled with making connections, learning and teaching about the Nordic culture, and lots of Floorball. For the first time, the popular Finnish sport is being highlighted for this year’s FinnFest. Floorball is similar to hockey, and it features five…

DECC Arena Struggles To Stay Cool During Recent Harbor Monsters Games

DECC calls recent arena heat level "simply unacceptable"

DULUTH, Minn. — It’s been a hot, steamy and humid summer the past few weekends, which has been nice for beachgoers, but not so nice for the Harbor Monsters and their fans after the air in the DECC arena rose to uncomfortable levels. The DECC told FOX 21 on Tuesday that the level of heat during the past two weekend…

17th Annual Reggae and World Music Festival Takes Place in Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. — Duluth’s Bayfront Festival Park was full of dancing, culture, and connecting on Saturday. It was all part of the 17th Annual Reggae and World Music Festival. More than a half-dozen artists shared their music with the crowd. Food trucks were there, too, offering Jamaican dishes and other food from different cultures. For some, reggae fest is about…

Black Water Lounge To Close In Downtown Duluth

The last day of business will be July 25.

Courtesy: Black Water DULUTH, Minn. — After 15 years of serving hand-crafted martinis in downtown Duluth, Black Water Lounge has made the difficult decision to close. The lounge on the 200 block of East Superior Street is part of the Black Woods Group. Courtesy: Black Water Co-owner Julie Thoreson told FOX 21 it’s a tough decision to close, but the…

Superior Parade Kick Starts Twin Ports Fourth of July Festivities

SUPERIOR, Wis. — It’s summertime. Which means parade season is in full swing. There’s plenty of reasons to gather. From our nation’s heroes to your everyday local business just starting out. Like the Adventure Acres in Superior. “So, we are opening a tourism farm in August. So, we have goats, and chickens and bunnies. And then like a corn pit…

DECC’s ‘Taco Fest’ Faces Criticism For Not Including Local Mexican Restaurants

DECC officials said its kitchen-prepared event will break even and support staff during slow summer months.

DULUTH, Minn. – The DECC’s first-ever Taco Festival is drawing some criticism because the event does not include any local Mexican restaurants. The DECC describes the event as “a festival-style taco extravaganza,” “a street party with tacos,” and “signature margaritas.” The Taco Fest is happening outside Pioneer Hall Saturday, July 6, from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m.  The DECC’s kitchen…

Blast From the Past: Earth Rider Hosts Tribute to 1967 Monterey Pop Festival

Twin Ports artists performed their own renditions of some 60's classics

SUPERIOR, Wis. — Things were getting groovy at Earth Rider Brewery in Superior on Sunday afternoon. Fans put on their best “Summer of Love” apparel for ‘Twin Ports Does The Monterey Pop Festival 1967.’ The concert was a tribute to the festival best known for performances by Jimi Hendrix and The Who. It also introduced Janis Joplin and Otis Redding…

Superior Porchfest 2024 Kicks Off

Bringing neighbors together one song at a time, that's the mission of Superior Porchfest and Siggy's Musical Garden

SUPERIOR, Wisc. — It’s that time of year again! The music continued in Superior; Porchfest started Thursday night. Local musicians Breanne Marie and the Front Porch Sinners, Gina Lee, and Sidestreet Detour took to porches around the North End neighborhood. Breanna Marie and the Front Porch Sinners performed across the street from Phoenix Villa Apartments. Siggy’s Musical Garden Executive Director…

4th Annual Mentor North Summer Fest Supports Continued Growth

Earth Rider Brewery Hosted Live Music, Food, and Activities in Support of Mentor North

SUPERIOR, Wisc. — Mentor North held its 4th Annual Summer Fest Thursday evening at Earth Rider Brewery Festival Grounds in Superior. The evening of festivities was all the benefit youth mentoring in Superior and Duluth. There was plenty to do, with live music, food, and mega-sized lawn games. Proceeds from tickets and the silent auction went towards Mentor North. Right…