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Zarja Fest

Sat, Aug 01

|

Minnesota Discovery Center

Celebrate Slovenian heritage at Zarja Fest, with music, dancing, cultural activities, outdoor recreation, and community connection at the Minnesota Discovery Center. Enjoy live performances, polkas, singing, genealogy research, topical talks, picnicking, and more, all in one unforgettable day!

Tickets go on sale 6/1/25
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Zarja Fest
Zarja Fest

Time & Location

Aug 01, 2026, 11:00 AM – 8:30 PM

Minnesota Discovery Center, 1005 Discovery Dr, Chisholm, MN 55719, USA

About the event

Join us for Zarja Fest,

a vibrant day-long celebration of Slovenian heritage, music, culture, and community in northern Minnesota.


Held at the Minnesota Discovery Center on Saturday, August 1, Zarja Fest brings together families, friends, and visitors for a joyful summer gathering filled with live Slovenian music, dancing, singing, cultural exploration, and outdoor adventure.


Throughout the day, guests can enjoy:

  • Live Slovenian music and performances

  • Polkas, singing, and dancing


Tickets

  • Zarja Fest Admission

    From $35.00 to $40.00

    Goes on sale

    Jun 01, 8:00 AM

    • $35.00

    • $35.00

    • $40.00

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    Where Will the Arts Take You?

    At Northern Lakes Arts Association, every program is a doorway into Ely’s vibrant Rural Arts Ecosystem. Choose your path below and see what inspires you most:

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    MainStage Productions

    Experience unforgettable theater, concerts, and dance performances that set the standard for artistic excellence in Ely.

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    Northern Lakes Arts Academy

    Grow your skills through workshops, camps, and hands-on mentorship for artists of all ages.

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    Community Arts & Events

    Connect with neighbors through inclusive programs, local showcases, and celebrations that bring the arts to everyone.

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    Northern Lakes Arts Association 

    1900 East Camp Street, Ely, Mn 55731
    218-235-9937
    Contact@NorthernLakesArts.Org
    EIN: 36-3485240

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    2026 Donors and Sponsors

    Legacy Circle Members
    Recognizing individuals whose enduring generosity has helped shape and sustain Northern Lakes Arts Association over time. This circle reflects long-term impact and may include supporters who prefer not to list a public giving amount.

    Catherine Aldrich

    Kari Wenger

    Anonymous

    Season Sponsors ($1500+)

    Boundary Waters Connect

    Brainstorm Bakery

    Ely Outfitting Company 

    Motel Ely

    Sherpa

    The Boathouse

    Barb & Laverne Dunsmore

    Insula

    The Vermilion Campus Foundation

    Bernie & Kari Dusich

    Holly Rom

    Lindsey Lang

    Larry & Catherine Bogolub

    Jamie & Cindy Gardner

    Joe & Mary Bianco

    Raven Words Press

    Firefly Antiques

    Anonymous x2

    Gold Level Donors ($1000+)

    Alanna Dore

    Bridgette Sundell

    Carrie Bezak

    Caroline Owens

    David & Kathleen Miller

    Heidi Buettner

    Mary Louise Icenhour

    Nancy Piragis

    Paul & Sue Schurke

    Roger & Nancy Benjamin

    Rusty & DiAnn White

    Sarah Wigdahl-Vollom

    Sue Duffy & Linda Ganister

    Virgie & The Ivancich Family

    River Point Resort & Outfitting Co.

    Silver Level Donors ($500+)

    Al Gerhardstein & Mimi Gingold

    Alanna Dore

    Brian Batzli

    Carolyn & Keith Dehnbostel

    Christine Stevens

    Ely Auto

    Karen McManus

    Katie Heitzig

    Jan Carey

    Kristine & Krista Woerhide

    Laura Myntti

    Norma McKinnon

    Pamela Saunders

    Sheldon Damberg

    Steven & Mona Johnson

    Tim Deyak

    Town of Morse

    Troy West

    Bronze Level Donors ($250+)

    Albert & Karen Maddern

    Andrea Landro-Pike

    Ann Spitler

    Bear Island Realty

    Brian Krause

    Darlene Nemanich

    Dave & Rene Settergren

    David & Michelle Young

    Ely Flower and Seed

    Frandsen Bank & Trust

    Grand Ely Lodge

    Glenda Harbaugh

    James Montana III

    Karl Kubiak

    Kathleen & Byron Anderson

    Linda Carlson

    Log Cabin Coffee

    Mindy Shulfer

    Nancy Sorjanen

    Mrs. Pamela Kearney

    Piragis Northwoods
    Raven’s Wing B&B

    Rebecca Nova

    Roberta Klar

    Sue Germek
    Sue & Wayne Pasmick

    The individuals , businesses and families listed above help make Northern Lakes Arts Association possible. Their generosity supports artists, youth programs, and live performances that bring our community together.

    If you would like to join this circle of supporters, we welcome you.

    And if we have accidentally missed your name in this listing, please let us know so we can properly recognize your support.

    To make a gift or update your information, click the button below

    Thank you for helping keep the arts alive in Ely.
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