Foundation Fundraising Events
One of the primary ways the Northern Lights Foundation raises money is by hosting annual fundraising events throughout the year. These events range from a formal dinner to a crazy singing competition involving cow bells. A majority of the events are open to the public and offer the community an opportunity to have fun while helping their friends and neighbors in need.
2026 Cody Buus Invitational Courage Snowmobile Ride
February 2026 – Duluth
A three-day snowmobile ride benefiting the Northern Lights Foundation to provide financial support to families with children facing life-threatening illnesses.
Date: February 19-21, 2026
2026 Lake Superior Lawmen Hockey Tournament
March 2026 – Duluth
Join us for the Annual Lake Superior Lawmen Hockey Tournament! Participating teams include current and former police officers, military members, firefighters and other public safety personnel.
Proceeds raised will be donated to the Northern Lights Foundation!
Join us for this family friendly event that takes place at Essentia Duluth Heritage Sports Center!
Date: TBD
2026 Grandma’s Marathon Charity Runners
June 2026 – Duluth
Anyone interested in running either Grandma’s Marathon, the Garry Bjorklund Half Marathon, or the William A. Irvin 5K can participate as a Charity Runner!
Run the races while raising money for the Northern Lights Foundation!
Date: June 19-20, 2026
2026 Charity Softball Game
August 2026 – Duluth
Join us for our Annual Charity Softball Game at Wade Stadium in August!
Watch the Duluth/Superior Police Departments take on the Duluth/Superior Fire Departments on the field along with a great BBQ in the outfield for all fans.
Open to the community, active First Responders and Employees, Retired First Responders, Families & Supporters.
Date: TBD
2026 NorthShore Inline Marathon
September 2026 – Duluth
Join us at the annual NorthShore Inline Marathon! A portion of proceeds raised will be donated to the Northern Lights Foundation!
It’s time to skate, run, or ski the Northshore with NorthShore Inline Marathon’s 10K, Half Marathon, Marathon, & Northern Lights Foundation Kid Sprints!
Over 2,000 skaters from around the world travel to Duluth each fall to participate in the largest inline marathon in North America.
We participate in the pre-event expo to raise awareness and funds. Be sure to stop by and visit us at our NLF Table at the Expo. We look forward to seeing you!
Date: September 18-19, 2026
2026 Children’s Charity Gala
October 2026 – Duluth
Join us at our 2026 Annual Children’s Charity Gala.
This is our largest fundraisers of the year and includes a live and silent auction, raffles, social hour, dinner, and presentation. It’s a night you never want to miss!
Date: TBD