For the second time in history, Finn-Fest is taking place in Duluth.
Opening ceremonies began this evening and as Joel Runck explains thousands of people from across the Globe to celebrate the Finnish culture.

The Opening Ceremony of Finn Fest 2008 began this evening with about 100 violin players ages four through 80-plus playing Finnish music.
Then the thousands in attendance joined in harmony as Finland's National Anthem was sung.
It's been 16 years since this event has touched the shores of Lake Superior.

"The location travels all around the country," said Jeanne Doty, FinnFest 2008 co-chari. " So it actually started in Minneapolis and it has been in Duluth before, back in 1992."

Officials say today's opening ceremonies are just a preview of the long lineup ahead, including a visit from the President of Finland on Friday.
Around seven thousand people are expected to participate in this year's event that features many different activities.
But today, many fest-goers were reacquainting themselves with old friends.

"They're coming back for family reunions, they're meeting new people, too," said Doty. " And that was one of the things that was very important to our Finnfest committee."

Organizers say there are more than 150 vendors here at the DECC selling authentic merchandise ranging in everything from handmade knives to jewelry. And many here say the quality is second-to-none.

"I think the Finns are very much sticklers for detail," said Linda Lind, vendor. "They want everything to be exactly right. And so when you look at a Finnish product, you can tell that it is quality from start to finish."

And so far, fest-goers have been giving a "thumbs-up."

"I'm full-blooded Finnish and I think the event is great," said Edward Wuollet of Esko.

For more information of FinnFest, check out the link below.

www.finnfest2008.com