Cook County News Herald

Unplugged 2020: Where’s the Big Tent?



Unplugged 2020 will be different this year, but it will still feature topnotch entertainers. Above, singer songwriter Eliza Gilkyson will perform for the Unplugged Fall fundraiser during the virtual online event. Unplugged is one of North House Folk School’s biggest fundraisers. Tickets can be purchased through northouse.org. Photo courtesy of North House Folk School

Unplugged 2020 will be different this year, but it will still feature topnotch entertainers. Above, singer songwriter Eliza Gilkyson will perform for the Unplugged Fall fundraiser during the virtual online event. Unplugged is one of North House Folk School’s biggest fundraisers. Tickets can be purchased through northouse.org. Photo courtesy of North House Folk School

In the coming weeks, local residents may notice the absence of what has become a familiar fall sight on the Grand Marais skyline, a very large white tent on the North House Folk School campus. Since 2003, people have gathered under the big top to enjoy music, stories and raise funds for North House Folk School at the Unplugged Fall Fundraiser. It comes as no surprise, but the event will look a bit different in 2020.

North House will host Unplugged as a virtual event, gathering online on Saturday, September 19. What is a virtual Unplugged 2020 all about? As it always has been, it will be a celebration of the North and the community of North House. Much like celebrations on campus, Unplugged online offerings this year will be filled to overflowing with great music, compelling storytellers, opportunities to bid and bid again, stories of craft, and the power of community.

The evening will feature Robin Wall Kimmerer, author of Braiding Sweetgrass, Eliza Gilkyson, singer songwriter, and Grand Marais’s own Plucked Up String Band. People can select a streaming-only ticket or upgrade to a package that includes an online cooking class with Featured Chef Beth Dooley and a variety of North Shore treats. The weekend also features the online Points North Auction.

Robin Wall Kimmerer

Robin Wall Kimmerer

The North House campus will continue to welcome visitors to campus to participate in socially distanced activities. Hands-on craft coursework in wood carving, natural dyes and weaving will be underway mid-week, and the School Store is open for shoppers Wednesday- Sunday. Visitors are welcome to drop by to observe outdoor craft demonstrations of blacksmithing, felting, woodworking and more on Friday, September 18 and Saturday 19 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.. The iconic red sails of the schooner Hjordis will continue to ply the waters with family groups through September 30.

For tickets and more information, see northhouse.org

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