Tree-lighting in Duluth kicks off holiday season

With the town Christmas tree being lit Friday night and Bentleyville kicking off Saturday, Duluth is getting into the holiday spirit.

“People really flock to our community, especially because of Bentleyville. This is what draws the people in, and we see this throughout the holiday season into Christmas,” said Downtown Duluth President Kristi Stokes. “Plus we have so many local businesses that really decked themselves out for the holiday season and we can really showcase what we have in our community.”

With so many traveling here this time of year, Duluth was recently named one of the “25 best Christmas towns in the US for a winter getaway.”

“I think it’s fitting,” said The Blue Heron Manager Sam Connolly. “We’re a beautiful, snow-covered city, and I think we have a good way of taking advantage of our weather and our natural beauty.”

As many flock to Duluth for the landscape, the variety of events and holiday activities also help contribute to local business. 

“Definitely on the weekends, there are a lot of families coming up from all over the place to see Bentleyville, the lights, the Christmas train, meet Santa at the Deport, and other winter festivities,” said Lift Lodge Assistant General Manager Casi Syracuse. “The spirit of Christmas is here in Duluth.”