Known far and wide for its major natural iron deposit, Hibbing, Minnesota, is also one of the top vacation destinations in the state. You’ll love the great events, fun attractions, and unique charm that Northern Minnesota exudes.
Fun and entertaining activities in Hibbing and the surrounding area are numerous and easy to find. More than 30 public parks are scattered across the city, giving you plenty of green space to explore during your stay. The Mesabi Trail stretches 120 miles through 28 communities and features some of Minnesota's most scenic views. The trail is perfect for hiking, biking and exploring the lush wilderness. The area is also home to two great golf courses, the public Municipal Golf Course and the semi-private Mesaba Country Club, each offering a challenge to golfers of all skill levels.
The rich history of the city is on display at great local museums including the Hibbing Historical Museum and Greyhound Bus Museum. The city was also the birthplace of Bob Dylan, and there is a unique exhibit (the Bob Dylan Collection) on display at the Hibbing Public Library. A great way to get to know the community is to participate in one of the big local events like the ever popular, Hibbing Jubilee.
Well received and highly anticipated each year, the Hibbing Jubilee is one of the best family celebrations in Northern Minnesota. This year marks the 25th anniversary for the event and they are expecting a few thousand people in attendance. The event has something for everyone, from a 10K run to a Kids Carnival. You’ll also find a variety of food and refreshments to enjoy, and what would a big summer festival be without a spectacular fireworks show? Hibbing Jubilee has a big show planned for Friday night, taking place near the Hibbing Race Track. Let the friendly people and great activities of Hibbing take your vacation to a new level of enjoyment. We got the opportunity to interview Lory Fedo, President of the Hibbing Area Chamber of Commerce, to talk about Hibbing Jubilee.
RAL: Tell me about the event.
LF: The Hibbing Jubilee is a celebration of life here on Minnesota’s Iron Range. We have several events throughout the day that will provide fun for the whole family. This year we are celebrating the 25th year of the event. On average we see several thousand people attend. They come from all over the area, state and beyond.
RAL: What makes the event unique?
LF: We are looking forward to this year’s Jubilee celebration as it is the most exciting weekend of the summer! It is a great time to get together with old friends, new friends, and to see the downtown come alive! In past years, the parade itself has brought thousands of people to town. It has something for everyone, especially the kids.
RAL: Take me through the activities people will find at the event.
LF: Here are a few of the highlights from this year’s schedule.
-
Thursday, July 7, the Jubilee Business After Hours and Raffle starts at 4:30 pm at Mr. Nick’s Corner Bar. Raffle tickets are available for $100.00 with only 100 being sold. Tickets may be purchased at Mr. Nick’s Corner Bar, The Brickyard, Sportsmen’s, Sunny Hill Distributing, and the Hibbing Area Chamber. Prizes include the following: First ($3,000), Second ($2,000), Third ($1,000), and five prizes ($200).
-
Hibbing Community College is celebrating its centennial anniversary! Visit the campus on Friday, July 8 from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm for a fun celebration that include activities, tours, an Alumni Reunion and more!
-
Fireworks will be held Friday, July 8 at dusk near the Hibbing Raceway. The rain date is Saturday.
-
The 5th Annual Red Ore Run and Taconite Trot kicks off on Saturday, July 9 in Historic North Hibbing. Registration runs from 6:45 am to 7:30 am with the races following shortly after. The 10K begins at 8 am, 5K right after the 10K, and the Taconite Trot after the 10K/5K. If you are interested in participating in the Red Ore Run, registration details can be found on their website.
-
Festival on Fifth (formerly known as Art and More on the Avenue) opens at 11 am and runs until 6 pm. This event features local artisans and is located on 5th Avenue East, next to City Hall and the Hibbing Public Library. To continue the excitement at Festival on Fifth, we are introducing Kids’ Carnival! This will be the first Kids’ Carnival on the lawn of City Hall, it takes place from 11 am 2 pm. Bring your kids for free games, ice cream truck, bouncy house, face painting, and more!
-
The “Sweetest” Jubilee Parade begins at 3 pm (begins at Republic Bank), with the Street Dance immediately following at 5 pm.
RAL: What can attendees expect to find for local lodging?
LF: We have some great local lodging options to choose from including: Hampton Inn, Hibbing Park Hotel, Jimbo’s Junk House LLC, America’s Best Value Inn and Chisholm Inn and Suites.
RAL: What does the event mean to the community?
LF: This is our main community festival and is a tradition that brings families, neighbors and visitors together to celebrate. It's the ideal time of year to enjoy all the wonderful outdoor activities and beautiful natural scenery. The community looks forward to the event for months and the friendly people in our community welcome visitors with open arms.
RAL: Why should people come to your event?
It’s fun with lots to do and this is the biggest weekend here for the entire summer. Daytime is family oriented and evening is definitely designed for adult couples and singles. It’s a great way to see Northeastern Minnesota!
For more information about the Hibbing Jubilee, please visit their website.