Northlanders mark Bob Dylan’s 85th birthday with Duluth Dylan Fest

DULUTH, Minn. (Northern News Now) - Northlanders are celebrating the legacy of iconic ’60s musician Bob Dylan.

The Duluth Dylan Fest began Sunday, May 17, and runs through Sunday, May 24, which highlights Dylan’s 85th birthday.

The weeklong celebration features jam sessions and concerts.

Organizers said people travel from around the world to attend — and that the festival not only honors Dylan, but also celebrates the Northland arts community.

“The fact that Bob Dylan was born in Duluth is pretty darn exciting,” said Zane Bail with the Duluth Dylan Fest. “We’re here to celebrate his living legacy, and all the fabulous musicians and poets and artists we have here in the Northland as well.”

Event schedule

Monday (May 18)

• Dylan Fest Acoustic Jam Session at Ursa Minor, 5:30–7:30 p.m.

Wednesday (May 20)

• Desire — 50th Anniversary Tribute at Sir Benedict’s Tavern on the Lake, 4:30–6:30 p.m.
• Dylan Fest Open Electric Jam at Superior Tavern, 6–8 p.m.

Thursday (May 21)

• Dylan Fest Music at the Museum at the Lake Superior Railroad Museum, 7–10 p.m. (Tickets: $12 advance; $15 at the door)

Friday (May 22)

• Dylan Fest Singer-Songwriter Contest at Sacred Heart Music Center, 7–10 p.m. (Tickets: $10 advance; $15 at the door)

Saturday (May 23)

• John Bushey Memorial Lecture at Zeitgeist Teatro Zuccone, 1:30–3 p.m.
• The Music of Bob Dylan Concert at Sacred Heart Music Center, 7–10 p.m. (For tickets, click here)

Sunday (May 24)

• Bob Dylan Front Porch Birthday Party at Dylan’s childhood home (519 N. 3rd Ave. E., Duluth), 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
• Bob Dylan’s Big 85th Birthday Bash at Alhambra Theatre, 7–9 p.m. (For tickets, click here)

For more information on Duluth Dylan Fest, click here.

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