Since 2017, Grand Marais Music Collaborative (GMMC) has been putting on the Stars of the North Music Festival in downtown Grand Marais. Event organizer Todd Miller explained that the music festival is run entirely by volunteers and is put on to benefit the GMMC. The collaborative is a local 501 (c) (3) that is working to promote music events and lessons in the area through individual donors. For the festival, Miller shared with Boreal Community Media that a portion of festival costs was also funded by Visit Cook County.  

Miller wanted to “Thank musicians and donors for their part in making the event possible.” 

15 acts happened between Friday and Saturday last weekend. Included in the schedule was a performance by the GMMC music students on Saturday night. All artists in the festival were based in Minnesota, and most were local to the North Shore. 

Bringing in local artists is important to Miller and other organizers. Not only does it highlight the success of the performing arts culture in the area, but it also inspires young or up-and-coming artists. 

Miller said he is grateful for his current crew of volunteers, but mentioned that the organization would love to have more helpers to grow the event in the future. Those with experience in fundraising are especially encouraged to reach out to the GMMC.