Ever visited the cold tundra that is northern Minnesota? Most likely the answer is no. Temperatures fall below zero degrees and the crispy air freezes every breath. The one shining star is located in the middle of the city of Duluth, Minnesota, next to Lake Superior. This star attraction takes place from Thanksgiving to Christmas every year. It illuminates the city with glowing lights, Christmas carols, and wonderful smiles. This magical city of lights is called Bentleyville.

All it took was one spark—one brilliant idea that flickered into a chain reaction that ignited a beautiful glimmer of twinkling lights. Illuminated lights and 10-feet-tall decorations are all found in Nathan Bentley’s backyard. This small town business owner decided to create a light show for his family and friends to enjoy in the little town of Esko, Minnesota, over a decade ago. However, what started as a tiny Christmas display on the front lawn developed into a metropolis of lights. Every year it grew grander and more elaborate with new Christmas themes. Strings of lights were hung, wire contraptions glowed with tiny bulbs of light, and carols played noisily. Bentleyville soon became the biggest light display in the area. Minnesotans ventured from across the state to view this spectacular presentation.

Not many years after, this seasonal phenomenon was getting too great for the little town. Therefore, the nearby city of Duluth decided to strike a deal. Duluth invited Nathan to bring his brilliant spectacle to Bayfront Park, the heart of Duluth. This park is located near the shore of Lake Superior where thousands gather every year for concerts and other festivals. Bayfront is the perfect location for everyone to experience this show as it lights up the whole city.

The best part of this light tour is the volunteers that come around every fall to participate in the construction of Bentleyville. As the display grows, so does the number of volunteers. Duluth citizens partake in handing out hot chocolate for those cold winter nights and popping buttered popcorn in tiny huts. They also keep watch over fire pits and help children stuff marshmallows on their roasting sticks. Every volunteer has a smile on their face in celebration of this joyous holiday season.

If you are planning to be one of the over 200,000 visitors this year according to Bentleyville's "Tour of Lights" website, be sure stop by to see Mr. or Mrs. Claus who are giving out candy to good little boys and girls every night. Additionally, the 128-foot Christmas tree (claimed to be the tallest in the world) by Duluth News Tribune, is a dancing choreographed display that can’t be beat. Bentleyville is truly a star attraction that makes Duluth much warmer this time of year!