Rather than viewing winter as a time when we are limited by the lack of daylight, Duluth, Minnesota, adopts a positive winter mindset that fully embraces getting outside in the cold months. Discover the magic Duluth has to offer with these amazing experiences all FREE to attend.
November 20–December 26
($10 for parking, food and toy donations are encouraged)
Image Credit: Dennis O'Hara
Bayfront Festival Park comes alive during Bentleyville, America’s largest free walk-through lighting display! This quintessential holiday event has something for everyone. Visitors will be amazed by the 4 million+ lights, the 128-foot Christmas tree and all the free treats! This festive event is fun for the entire family. Bring the kids to meet Santa while you enjoy some hot cocoa and take in this spectacular light show.
Glensheen Spirit of the Lights
November 26–January 1
Spirit of the Lights is Glensheen Mansion’s enchanting outdoor light display, which is celebrated for its intimate and natural feel. Many of the motifs and displays are dedications to the memory of individuals or in recognition of meaningful moments. To say this is a uniquely special display is an understatement.
John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon
January 30–February 2
If you’re looking for a unique experience, come and witness the Beargrease. This sled dog race is the longest in the lower 48 states, as hundreds of mushers from across the nation come to compete in this nearly 300-mile event. The race starts in Duluth on January 30. Spectators are encouraged to park at the University of Minnesota–Duluth between 8 a.m. and 9 a.m. and hop on the free shuttle that takes you to Billy’s Bar, where you can talk to mushers, pet the dogs, enjoy a Bloody Mary bar and catch the start of the race. The majority of the race is run through three counties and the Superior National Forest, and the first finishers typically arrive around 5 p.m. on February 1 in Grand Portage with the final finishers arriving on February 2.
February 12
The Frosted Fatty is a celebration of fat-tire biking. Racers can ride down two stages starting around 9 a.m. for one hour, and their fastest time will be recorded. Winners of the race will be selected from the combination of the fastest times from the two stages. Stages will include a mix of open alpine trail, GS (giant slalom) turns and the mountain bike trails nearby. You will have a blast whether racing or watching. Fat Bike Sundays start in January, during which you can purchase a ticket, take your bike up the lift and then ride down.
Explore visitduluth.com for all your planning needs.
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Experience the magic of Bentleyville and other Duluth adventures while staying at one of our premier hotel partners: Pier B Resort and Edgewater Hotel + Waterpark (Save 20% at Edgewater by using code: LAKE22 now-Dec. 30)