I think we are all shaking our heads around here, and giving thanks, for the absolutely beautiful weather that we have been fortunate to experience this early in the spring. The shipping season has kicked off early with the first ship leaving Duluth’s port on Tuesday. And the summer is shaping up to be exciting around Duluth and the North Shore. From Grandma’s Marathon to Blues Festival – Duluth is not only one of the most spectacular areas in the country for pure, natural beauty; it is jammed packed with fun activities and events throughout the year.
One of the biggest and most anticipated events taking place this summer is the Tall Ships Challenge scheduled to begin on July 28th through August 2nd. A fleet of eight international vessels will sail into Duluth’s port, one of only six cities chosen in the US and Canada, and the only Lake Superior port! It’s a rare chance to catch a glimpse, step aboard, and even set sail on some of the grandest ships of yore. The festival grounds open Thursday, July 29 with sounds and sensations ranging from a pirate school for kids to four days of performances of Gilbert & Sullivan’s Pirates of Penzance, a musical presented by the UMD School of Fine Arts.
Perhaps one of the most fascinating ships included in the fleet is the Freedom Schooner Amistad. It is the official flagship and tall ship ambassador of Connecticut, and more notably, holds historical significance as one of the ships used in the trading of slaves. The Amistad made history in 1839, when slaves aboard the ship revolted to secure their freedom while being transported from one Cuban port to another. The current mission of the Amistad is to provide visitors an intense and direct reexamination of the history of the Atlantic Slave Trade and its legacy found throughout the nations of the Atlantic Basin.
So as you plan your summer vacation; or short getaways this season, be sure to put Duluth on your schedule. You will be surrounded by superior natural beauty while taking in some spectacular events and activities along the North Shore. Join us; we look forward to seeing you on your next visit to Duluth!!
