The tradition of New Year’s resolutions dates back over 4,000 years to ancient Babylon. During the 12-day Akitu festival, people made promises to their gods to return borrowed items and pay off debts in exchange for favors in the coming year.
While the Babylonians celebrated in the spring, other cultures chose different markers: Egyptians looked to the flooding of the Nile, Persians used the spring equinox, and Greeks followed the winter solstice. It wasn’t until the Romans—and later Pope Gregory XIII—solidified January 1st as the standard start of the year that our modern secular traditions began to take shape.
Our current celebrations are a blend of history and folklore:
• Noise & Spirits: Ancient Chinese traditions used loud noises to scare off evil spirits. Today, that lives on through midnight fireworks and noisemakers.
• The Midnight Kiss: This stems from the British tradition of “saining” (blessing) during Yuletide to bring good luck for the months ahead.
• Resolutions: Once rooted in spiritual “Covenant Renewal” services, resolutions shifted in the 19th century toward personal goals like health and finances.
• The Ball Drop: First held in New York City in 1907, the Times Square ball drop turned the countdown into a global broadcast spectacle.
• Auld Lang Syne: Penned by Scottish poet Robert Burns in 1788, this song (meaning “for old times’ sake”) became a global staple for marking transitions, popularized in America by bandleader Guy Lombardo.
2026 is a Big Year on the North Shore
The upcoming year is packed with milestone anniversaries and local favorites. Whether you are a local or a visitor, mark your calendars. Here’s just a few highlights:
Here’s just a few highlights:
• Jan. 25: The John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon celebrates 41 years of racing history.
• Feb. 6-7: Two Harbors Winter Snow Frolic with an awesome schedule filled with live music, vendors, sliding hills, curling, and races designed for both adults and kids alike.
• Feb. 14: Fall in love with the outdoors at the Annual Vintage Snowmobile Rendezvous.
• March 13–15: Celebrate the 51st year of St. Urho’s Day. This year’s theme is “St. Urho in Wunderland”. Don’t forget to wear your purple and green!
• May: The Historical Annual Green Door Smelt Fry returns. A tradition dating back to 1958, it’s a perfect time for sharing laughs and old memories.
A Summer of Milestones
July 2026 is a massive month for our north shore towns and our country.
Silver Bay will celebrate its 70th Anniversary during Bay Days (July 10–12). The committee is working hard to ensure this platinum celebration is one to remember.
On a national level, July 4, 2026, marks the United States Semiquincentennial (America250). Expect grand celebrations across the region to honor the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
The North Shore truly becomes a playground in the summer months:
• Silver Bay: Look forward to the Salmon Classic in July. There will also be the Music in the Park series hosted by Rocky Wall Entertainment on Fridays throughout the summer. Construction will also continuing on the Multi-Modal Trailhead Center, a major recreation hub projected for completion in 2027.
• Grand Marais: Enjoy the Wooden Boat Festival June 19-21 and the legendary Fisherman’s Picnic July 30- Aug. 2, along with many other events.
• Finland: Check out the weekly Farmers Markets, the Tori Music Festival, and the Finland Fireman’s Wooden Bat Tournaments.
• Two Harbors: Don’t miss the Heritage Day Festival (running for over 40 years) July 9-12 and the Lake County Fair in August.
• Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Rendezvous Days Celebration Pow Wow August 7 & 8.
2026 promises to be a year of growth and celebration. The North Shore is filled with endless activities and entertainment. From snowmobiling, skiing, and ice fishing in the winter to hiking, fishing, camping, and events in the summer. 2026 will be full of memory making moments. Stay posted on all the North Shore has to offer. Happy New Year!
