37th Hiawatha Music Festival is underway

MARQUETTE — For the thirty seventh year, Hiawatha Music Festival has begun.

There’s a reason people from all over Marquette County, the U.P., the Midwest and beyond come to the Hiawatha Music Festival every year. Vice President of the Hiawatha Music Co–op Susan Bertram has been with the festival since it began thirty seven years ago. She says that between the music that surrounds the Tourist Park campground, workshops, food, family, and friends an atmosphere is created that you can’t find anywhere else.

“It’s kind of like a little village throughout the whole weekend,” said Vice President of the Hiawatha Music Co-op Susan Bertram, “I see people every year here, that I may not see any other time. My children have grown up here since they were infants and now they’re bringing their children. I enjoy the continuity of it and what we bring to the city of Marquette and what we bring to the area.”

All of the money raised from the music festival goes right back to the community.

“We’re a non–profit organization,” added Bertram, “any money raised goes right back into the festival. We also put on different concerts throughout the year.”

The Hiawatha Music Co–Op also gives money to a scholarship and holds events within local schools and nursing homes as well. The festival has begun and spots are filling up quickly. But one of the most anticipated events of the year in Marquette lasts all weekend so there’s still plenty of time to go out and enjoy the festivities.