Bundle Up And Enjoy Downtown Duluth

The Holiday season officially kicks off in Duluth on Friday with the Christmas City of the North Parade, a week before Thanksgiving tradition that dates back to the 1950's.  Bundle up the kids, put some hot chocolate in a thermos and head downtown Friday night to enjoy the parade that features around 70 units including 20 marching bands and, of course Santa himself.  There is plenty of room to set up lawn chairs along Superior Street, or watch the parade pass below you from the relative comfort of the skywalks (you might want to arrive early to stake your claim on those prime spots).  Another sure sign that the season has arrived is the opening of the Bentleyville Tour of Lights on Saturday at Bayfront Festival Park.  There is even more to see than ever before with additional lighted displays and a new animated giant tree topper.  If the economy or other factors make it seem tougher to get into the "holiday spirit" this year, either of these downtown events will have you saying "ho-ho-ho" in no time.