I just have to ask - why did it take Ely so long to figure this one out?  I just heard of this at Canoecopia at a booth for, I believe, the Ely Chamber of Commerce...or tourism...don't recall for sure, picked up a small pamphlet.  This June 10-12, the city will be hosting the Great American Canoe Festival.  See all the details at   (You need to Login or Register and it looks like there will be plenty to do and see - films, paddling, races, hands on craft, paddle making, art, canoe auction, etc. - even a Walleye cook-off.  Serendipitously, I've already planned on being in town that weekend before my trip, with no firm plans.  Great timing! 

pd

It was going to happen last year but they canceled hoping to have more time to organize the event this year.

I was invited by the organizer to bring one of my cedar strip boats to that show. I happens that I will be tripping in Quetico the week before so I may show up.