(BPT) – Planning a vacation? Look to Duluth for amazing events and activities not only this summer, but year-round. With such a wide variety of amazing events, you’ll want to book your stay as soon as possible. Check out your options at www.visitduluth.com/lodging.
By land, air and water
Duluth offers great natural beauty and outdoor experiences. One of the best-known is the 43rd annual Grandma’s Marathon June 22, a 26.2-mile race along the scenic North Shore. Other races include the William A. Irvin 5K and the Whipper Snapper Races for kids 14 and under on June 21, then the Garry Bjorklund Half Marathon on June 22.
For automobile enthusiasts, visit Spirit Valley Days, July 30-31, hosting the Northland’s largest classic car show. Also included in the celebration is a canoe and kayak tour of the St. Louis River, the largest freshwater estuary in North America, and the headwaters of the Great Lakes.
Or plan your trip around the exciting Duluth Air Show July 20-21. Minnesota’s largest air show features the U.S. Navy Blue Angels.
Since Duluth is best known for its proximity to Lake Superior, there are two must-see events celebrating all things nautical:
Cheer on the Duluth Rowing Club at the spectacular Duluth International Regatta, a 29-event rowing regatta held on a 2,000-meter course on July 13.
But the most famous event this summer is the thrilling Festival of Sail, Aug. 11-13. When these sailing vessels visit Duluth, it is a rare chance to see the grandest ships of yore. Historic ships arrive in Duluth for a three-day visit, featuring tours and fun for the entire family! The World’s Largest Rubber Duck will visit the harbor, making an incredible photo backdrop for the ships. This event is extremely popular, so you will want to book your lodging now if you plan to stay in Duluth this week.
Cultural events
For film aficionados, the Duluth Superior Film Festival (DSFF), May 29-31, presents an imaginative, diverse lineup of international, independent and regional films. DSFF hosts visiting filmmakers, plus events and parties.
Or catch the Art in Bayfront Park Art Fair, Aug. 17-18, for the opportunity to purchase gallery-quality artwork including jewelry, paintings, photography, ceramics and more from around 180 artists. You can even take an art class during a fun-filled weekend of art appreciation.
Fun, music and food
Duluth provides an amazing array of musical talent year-round, but especially during the summer months. Plan your visit around these exciting artists and festivals for a truly memorable vacation.
National acts visiting Duluth’s Bayfront Festival Park this summer alone include Trampled by Turtles July 6, Steve Miller Band July 14 and O.A.R. Aug. 1.
Concerts and festivals provide a great opportunity to enjoy Duluth. The annual Duluth Dylan Fest May 18-26 celebrates iconic artist Bob Dylan, born in Duluth in 1941. The week-long festival includes an art show, poetry reading, concerts, lectures by Dylanologists and a Singer-Songwriter Contest.
The Concert on the Pier at Glensheen is held July 18 at the historic 20,000-square-foot mansion. Concertgoers can bike, boat or walk to the concert since parking is limited. The best seats in the house are on Lake Superior. Concertgoers can purchase a Glensheen tour on concert evenings.
Check out the 14th annual Bayfront Reggae and World Music Festival July 20, showcasing international performers, plus ethnic foods and artisans. Or visit Aug. 9-11 for the 31st annual Bayfront Blues Festival, when 20,000 fans are treated to over 30 acts at Bayfront Festival Park, highlighting the best artists in the blues and blues/rock genres. If rock, country and dance music are more your thing, see The Tribute Fest Aug. 22-24, featuring many fun tribute shows. Enjoy the best tribute bands in the country while raising funds for homeless veterans.
For the tastiest food and drink in Duluth, visit the Taste of Duluth Festival July 14 or the All Pints North Summer Brew Fest July 27, both at Bayfront Festival Park. Taste of Duluth is a free event celebrating the cultural heritage of the area, offering great food, crafts and music. The All Pints North Summer Brew Fest presents craft beer from Minnesota breweries and brewpubs of the Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild. Meet brewers and enjoy craft beers, food, live music and more.
Duluth has so much for visitors to enjoy all summer, and all year. Plan your best Duluth vacation at VisitDuluth.com.
