Lakewalk Festival’s popularity triggers continued growth

Events in our community are started for various reasons, such as drawing crowds to a certain district or celebrating a special occasion. Some of those meant as a one-time celebration have morphed

into popular annual

gatherings.

What started as an event to celebrate an anniversary of a portion of Duluth’s popular Lakewalk has turned into an annual festival that is drawing thousands of people to our waterfront.

Now in its fourth year, the Duluth Lakewalk Festival is scheduled for

Sept. 7 and 8. It offers plenty of free,

family-friendly activities from the Canal Park area to the Lakeside neighborhood at 47th Avenue East.

This year’s event will have six major hubs: Lake Superior Marine Museum, Canal Park hotels, Endion Station, Veterans Memorial, Fitger’s and Lakeside. And each of these hubs will have loads of activities to help anyone, whether a resident or a tourist, thoroughly enjoy one of the jewels of our community.

Events kick off Friday, Sept. 7 with the season finale of the Greater Downtown Council’s Movies in the Park. Bring your blanket or lawn chair to Leif Erikson Park and enjoy the showing of “Happy Feet” on the big screen under the stars.

Then, on Saturday, Sept. 8, there is an afternoon filled with activities from noon until 4 p.m. Pick up a passport and collect stamps to earn free ice cream during the festival. Starting at noon, climb aboard the North Shore Scenic Railroad and ride the train for free! The train will be loading passengers from stops at Fitger’s and 47th Avenue East approximately every half-hour throughout the afternoon. Because of the train’s popularity, the North Shore Scenic Railroad has even added space to accommodate more passengers.

In Lakeside, you’ll find plenty of fun, especially if you have a four-legged friend. Duluth’s Top Dog contest returns, as well as other dog-related events. Plus, get in on the games, face-painting, food and shows.

From the Lake Superior Marine Museum to Fitger’s, you’ll find a Lakewalk lined with activities, from fishing holes and chalk art to zoo animals, face painting, s’mores and live music. Learn about boating safety tips, tour emergency response vehicles and hop on a hayride. Stop in at the Veterans Memorial and help send a special note and care package to soldiers serving our country.

It’s great to see so many entities come together to support the Duluth Lakewalk Festival and provide a top-notch event that everyone can enjoy for free. So, get out and explore the Lakewalk on Sept. 8 — we guarantee you won’t want to

miss it!

Kristi Stokes is the president of the Greater Downtown Council in Duluth.

Contact her at 727-8549 or by email at kstokes@downtownduluth.com.

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