FEED THE SMELT!

Greetings Smelt Parade veterans and supporters! We sure had a great 2023 parade, and hope you did too. Strictly Massive! But here’s the deal: We need money for next year. If you can contribute and don’t need more information, Bless You. Feel free to skip to the contribute part. May the Smelt be with You.

Or here’s a bit more:

Since 2012 many of you have joined on the Lakewalk, welcomed the Smelt Queen, and danced all the way downtown with the annual Run Smelt Run Second Line. The parade is now a proud local tradition, and has been called “Duluth’s Duluthiest event”. Village processions are essential in many cultures, and the Smelt Parade has become emblematic for Duluth.

For 3 weeks prior to the parade, we host free public art workshops. Many art forms combine to create this immersive arts experience, including paper mache sculpture, painting, costuming, mask performance, dance, and music.

The theme of the event is easy to appreciate, and saturates the artistry on display. We are celebrating Springtime, Lake Superior, the billions of tiny fish who run up our local streams as the ice is melting, and the Magic of Life itself. People of all ages have rejoiced in Smelt!

Our theme color is silver, and there are silver costumes in closets and storage bins in many homes all around the area, waiting for next year.

Which brings me back to our money shortage for 2024. After 10 consecutive years, the Smelt Parade was not selected in the latest cycle of funding from our primary grant source. To be clear, we are very grateful for the 10 years we enjoyed consistent funding. But next year is different, and we are humbly asking if you may be able and willing to donate.

While participation in the workshops and the parade and party are free, there are a number of expenses to produce the event, including

- the Brass Messengers Brass Band. 12 pieces this year! Has run with the Smelt since day one!

- workshop staff and supplies.

- permits.

- insurance.

- storage and truck rental.

Here is what we are seeking:

$5500. to fund the parade for 2024.

$6500. more stilt classes or another band at the end of the growing parade.

$7500. and above will feed future Smelt Run Parades.

If this be granted, Duluth shall once again triumph in this glorious rite of abundance and collective merriment! The Smelt Queen shall return! The Royal Smelt Guard shall rise up. The Brass Messengers will uplift the spirit. Puppets and comical masks will prance about in a manner most amusing. Ye shall not be disappointed.

Thank you for your consideration.