The St. Louis County Historical Society and the Slovenian Union of America are co-sponsoring an event that offers a rare and unique opportunity for you to learn about Slovenia and the thousands of its citizens who immigrated to Northern Minnesota in the late 1880s and early 1900s.
They came in search of a better life and to work in our forestry and iron mining industries. They brought with them their music, cuisine, and customs, enriching Minnesota’s diverse culture.
The festival is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 4 at the Depot in Duluth, with the program commencing at 10 a.m. The festival is free of charge and open to the public. Attendees can expect informative presentations on Slovenian history and culture.
Featured speakers include Miro Medved, Honorary Consul, Republic of Slovenia, Joseph Valencic, President of the Slovenian Union of America, and Professor Norman Setnicker.
The afternoon session will conclude with a two-hour concert by Duluth’s own internationally renowned Singing Slovenes.
A ticketed dinner event will begin at 6 p.m. offering a Slovenian ethnic food buffet for $30 per person.
Between 5-8 p.m., guests may explore various Slovenian exhibits, including a presentation on the Sainthood process for two Slovenian priests (Fathers Baraga and Father Buh) who served both Slovenian immigrants and the Native American communities.
During the entire event there will be an exhibition of original paintings by the late Slovenian artist of Ely, Albin Zaverl portraying Slovenian culture and iron ore mining in the Ely underground iron ore mines.
Traditional button box Slovenian music will be featured by Rosanne Omersa, a respected musician from the Iron Range.
