Eagle River Chamber promotes cranberry foods, drinks and tours this fall

Star Journal Report

Another annual Northwoods festival has been canceled due to health concerns. The Eagle River Area Chamber of Commerce board of directors voted to postpone the 41st annual event until 2021.

“Cranberry Fest has been more than an annual favorite in our community; it’s been tradition since 1980,” said chamber director Kim Emerson.”The decision to cancel this year’s event was incredibly difficult. In lieu of an official event, we encourage visitors who were interested in attending to still take part in cranberry-related activities this fall that help support our local businesses.”

• Cranberry marsh tours, fresh cranberries and cranberry wine tasting will be available at Lake Nokomis Cranberries

• Tribute Brewing Co. will be offering Frostwatch cranberry beer

• Craisins and souvenirs can be purchased at the Chamber office

• Cranberry bakery items will be available at a variety of locations

• Downtown Eagle River will be open for shopping

The cancellation is reportedly due to health concerns related to COVID-19. Additional factors leading to the decision include a lack of volunteers needed for a food-centric festival and a diminished experience for festival-goers.

Cranberry Fest, held the first weekend in October, typically brings in about 40,000 visitors each year. Approximately 10,000 pounds of cranberries are sold during the event. It is expected to return Oct. 2-1, 2021.