Ely · Babbitt · Tower · Minnesota
Blueberry Loop
collaboration, not competitionWhen the 2026 festival couldn't happen, three towns did something better together — a loop connecting vendors across Ely, Babbitt, and Tower. It was a hit, and it's here to stay.
The story
A festival cancelled. A community's answer.
In 2026, wildfire smoke forced the cancellation of the beloved Blueberry Festival. Rather than lose the summer, Ely, Babbitt, and Tower joined forces and created the Blueberry Loop — a route that sent visitors between vendors in all three towns.
What started as a backup plan became something better: neighbors working together instead of competing. It was a genuine success, and the three communities have decided to make it an annual tradition.
Read the full storyHero photo goes here
A favorite shot from the 2026 Loop — birch, blueberries, and a busy vendor street.
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2026 — by the numbers
A first year worth celebrating
Placeholder numbers — update BL_STAT_* in inc/config.php once the 2026 recap data is in.
Around the Loop
Three towns, one celebration
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In their words
Experiences from the Loop
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Save the date
The Loop returns in 2027
Be the first to know the dates, the route, and how to take part.
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