I sometimes wonder if there are people who wander into Grand Marais on Fisherman’s Picnic weekend without knowing that it is one of the community’s biggest events. I wonder what these folks think of their encounter. Anyone who has previously visited our little harbor town during the “shoulder seasons”—at the beginning of June or the end of September—is in for quite a surprise on the first weekend of August.
Visitors in May or June are able to find a parking place next to Blue Water Café or at South of the Border Café. Returning Fisherman’s Picnic weekend, they are undoubtedly shocked to find that they now have to park three blocks up the hill. The walkway along the harbor that encouraged them to sit and stare out over the water has become a playground for mobs of kids taking a break from the giant inflatable toys on Wisconsin Street.
I can only imagine the confusion when visitors wander the streets of the town that they thought was a peaceful little hamlet to find a crowd gathered around a table of pickled herring eating contestants. Or even crazier, folks tossing fish. Not just tossing fish—running, jumping and diving to catch slippery, slimy, floppy fish.
Anyone arriving in Grand Marais on Fisherman’s Picnic without advance warning surely thinks the community has gone a bit crazy.
There are some who live in the county who would agree. There are many residents who head far, far, away from downtown Grand Marais during Fisherman’s Picnic, sometimes referred to as “Fisherman’s Panic.” The crowds of people, the hustle and bustle is just too much for some northlanders. Unless there is a greatly compelling reason to participate—a grandchild to take to the Kiddie Rides; visiting relatives; a class reunion; the performance of a favorite band—these folks hide out at home or at a local lake.
I guess I’m one of the crazy people. I love Fisherman’s Picnic. As I write this Unorganized Territory, vendors are setting up tents on First Avenue in front of the Cook County News-Herald office. I can’t wait to see the wares they have to offer. I’m sure there’s nothing I must have, but I’ll bet there are a lot of lovely things I’d like to have. It’s fun to browse. Thank you to all the folks who set up shop for the weekend, visitors and local artisans alike.
I wrote last week about how much I enjoy the music of Fisherman’s Picnic. The only problem with the music is that I don’t have time to actually sit and listen. I’m usually rushing from one event to another so I don’t enjoy the music as much as I could. But having the music playing as a background to whatever it is we’re doing during Fisherman’s Picnic is wonderful. Thank you to all the amazing musicians in our community who share their talents with us.
All of the events of Fisherman’s Picnic are entertaining too. It’s fun to watch the kids bouncing around on those inflatables, racing minnows or taking part in the kids’ race at the Fisherman’s Picnic Run. It’s a joy to cheer on the kids in the Tractor Pull. It’s awesome to hear the talented contestants in the loon calling contest. Of course the Cutest Puppy Contest makes everyone smile. And as for the aforementioned pickled herring eating contest and the Fish Toss— hilarious! Thank you to all the hard-working Lions, Lionesses and community members for all the effort that gives us all these opportunities to be silly.
There is lots more that I find enjoyable at Fisherman’s Picnic—bingo, the log sawing contest, the parade, and of course the chance to win $10,000 in the Grand Marais Lions Club raffle. But most of all, what I like about Fisherman’s Picnic is the people. It is always nice to see old classmates, former co-workers or cousins out and about. Unfortunately, just as I never have time to sit and listen to music, I never have time for lengthy conversations. But I still love to see everyone. Thanks everyone for quick hugs and conversations!
And to those folks who accidentally decided to visit Grand Marais on Fisherman’s Picnic weekend, my apologies. Come back in a few weeks and it will be quiet again. Or, join us in the craziness. There’s always someone looking for a Fish Toss partner.
Run, leap and celebrate
for you are alive today!
Bryant McGill
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