ANNUAL EVENTS & FESTIVALS

HEIKINPÄIVÄ

During Heikinpäivä, the Keweenaw’s residents tap into their Finnish heritage and celebrate the mid-point of winter. This multi-day festival held in Hancock includes a festive parade filled with costumes out of Finnish folklore, Finnish films paired with dinner, traditional dance, concerts, Tori market, cultural demonstrations, and even a “wife-carrying” contest—where any adult pair can compete, and chaos, laughs, and occasional flying snow are guaranteed.

WINTER CARNIVAL

The Michigan Tech University Winter Carnival takes place on the campus and at various Houghton/Hancock locations. Events include the famous snow statues, sporting events, the queen contest, the famous Torchlight Parade down Mont Ripley, fireworks, winter games open to the community, and more.

Winter Carnival includes towering snow sculptures, human sled dog races, fireworks, comic reviews, beard-growing contests, and more!

JIBBA JABBA RAIL JAM

Downtown Houghton streets are transformed into a snowboarder's dream during Jibba Jabba—big drop ins, rails, and unique annual features meant to challenge invited professional and amateur riders and wow the crowd! Red Bull reps on-site spinning beats while invited riders compete for cash prize and industry cred.

Jibba brings everyone together - skiers, snowboarders, and folks who just love winter!

COPPERDOG RACES

The CopperDog sends sled‑dog teams and mushers from around the world on a multi-day race across Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula, starting from historic downtown Calumet, MI. Sled dogs whisk through forest and shoreline terrain on routes spanning approximately 5 to 120 miles while viewers line streets and trails in cheering crowds, turning the race into a true winter spectacle.

Sled dogs pulling a musher in the epic CopperDog Race (Brockit, inc.)

GREAT BEAR CHASE

The annual Great Bear Chase Ski Marathon is held at Swedetown Recreation Area in Calumet during early March. A race by skiers (for skiers), this event features 9 assorted classic and freestyle races that allow skiers of all ages to enjoy the Keweenaw's great skiing conditions late into the season.

This cross country ski race is serious and seriously fun!

UPPER PENINSULA DARK SKY FESTIVAL

The Keweenaw Dark Sky Park, headquartered at the Keweenaw Mountain Lodge, hosts an annual event around International Dark Sky Week: The Upper Peninsula Dark Sky Festival. DarkSky International encourages people worldwide to discover the night during International Dark Sky Week. This annual week-long event aims to raise awareness about the negative impacts of light pollution, the solutions that exist and simultaneously celebrate the night. The event is intended for all ages of dark sky enthusiasts, and includes lectures, astrophotography workshops, and more!

RIDE THE KEWEENAW

Ride the Keweenaw is all about exploring the amazing natural and recreational resources the Keweenaw region has to offer.  Held over the Memorial Day Weekend each year, it's our way of kicking off another season of singletrack riding in the Copper Country.  Best of all, you get to ride all of the Copper Country's amazing trails, from Söké all the way to Copper Harbor and everywhere in between. Guided rides are held in Houghton, Hancock, Calumet and Adventure Mine with races held in Copper Harbor.

SPRING ON THE WING

Inspired by Houghton's Bird City Michigan designation, Spring on the Wing celebrates the incredible bird and raptor migrations that pass through the Keweenaw each spring. Timed with World Migratory Bird Day, the festival features guided field excursions, educational programs, family-friendly activities, local business events, and collaborations with conservation and community partners. It's the perfect time to experience spring migration firsthand, including the renowned Brockway Mountain Hawk Watch, where thousands of raptors soar overhead from March through June.

WATERFALL WEEK

Chase the roar of spring during Waterfall Week in the Keweenaw. This annual celebration highlights the peninsula’s spectacular waterfalls at peak flow with guided hikes, local events, waterfall-themed activities, and a self-guided Waterfall Trail experience. Explore scenic routes, support local businesses, and experience the season when the Keweenaw’s cascades come alive.

KEWEENAW MOUNTAIN LODGE  BACK 9 ENDURANCE RACE

The first of its kind in the area, the Back 9 is a 12-to-24-hour endurance run at the Keweenaw Mountain Lodge in Copper Harbor. Runners wind their way through a 3.5-ish mile loop that is a mix of Back 9 trails, golf course, hills, mud, and forest with spectacular views of Brockway Mountain. Team members take turns running the approximately 3-mile course to pile up the distance. The event takes place during the Memorial Day Weekend.

JUHANNUS SUMMER SOLSTICE CELEBRATION

The Juhannus Summer Solstice Celebration weaves tradition Finnish and Finnish-American summer solstice traditions with fun, family-friendly community events! Enjoy the Suloista Suvea (Sweetness of Summer) here in Michigan's Copper Country!

All are welcome to dance around the Midsummer pole!

BRIDGEFEST

Bridgefest was organized to celebrate the Portage Lake Lift Bridge, which officially opened in 1959. The Bridge is a vital link between the communities of Houghton and Hancock and is a gateway to the rest of the historic Keweenaw Peninsula.  Come on out and see us for some great food, music, and lots of fun.

KEWEENAW PRIDEFEST

Keweenaw Pridefest is a celebration of LGBTQIA+ pride, visibility, and community in the Keweenaw. Launched in 2023 by Keweenaw Queers - a grassroots collective dedicated to creating more inclusive spaces - the event quickly became a cherished gathering thanks to strong local support and word-of-mouth enthusiasm. Keweenaw Pridefest continues to grow each year, hosting artist markets, live music, games, and more.

4TH OF JULY CELEBRATIONS

From South Range to Copper Harbor, Keweenaw communities celebrate Independence Day with hometown parades, children's games, BBQs, live entertainment, and plenty of old-fashioned family fun. Cap off the day with fireworks in Lake Linden or South Range, then explore our Events Calendar for the full lineup of Fourth of July celebrations and summer events.

THE DAM JAM

The Dam Jam is a vibrant outdoor music and arts festival held each July at Calumet Lions Park. Colorful lighting, live art, and a forested setting create an immersive festival atmosphere, while an eclectic lineup of local and touring musicians keeps the music going all weekend long. This nonprofit event celebrates original music, creativity, and community in one of the Keweenaw's most unique summer gatherings.

COPPER COUNTRY STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL

Celebrate one of the Keweenaw's sweetest summer traditions at the Copper Country Strawberry Festival in downtown Chassell. Famous for its homemade strawberry shortcake, lively hometown parade, and decades of local history, this family-friendly festival also features arts and crafts, live entertainment, heritage exhibits, delicious food, children's activities, the Strawberry Queen crowning, and a full weekend of community celebrations.

Chassell's long history of strawberry farming can be enjoyed with a delicious summer shortcake (or two)!

THE INTERNATIONAL GUTS FRISBEE TOURNAMENT

What started as a family game in Eagle Harbor in 1958 has become one of the world's longest-running disc sport competitions. The International GUTS Frisbee Tournament returns to the Keweenaw each summer, welcoming top competitors from across the globe to the birthplace of GUTS Frisbee. Experience the speed and excitement of this original extreme sport, then visit the International Frisbee Hall of Fame in the historic Calumet Colosseum to discover how a Copper Country invention became an international tradition.

CANAL RUN

A beloved Copper Country tradition for more than 50 years, the Canal Run welcomes participants of all ages and abilities to one of Michigan's most scenic road races. With multiple distances, adaptive divisions, youth races and a stunning course along the Portage Canal, it's a family-friendly Hancock summer event that brings the community together and draws runners from across the Midwest.

Good vibes and personal bests along the Portage Canal.

END OF THE ROAD KEWEENAW TOUR & CLASSIC CAR SHOW

End of the Road Car Show brings classic cars, trucks, motorcycles, and automotive enthusiasts together for a scenic journey from Calumet to Copper Harbor. Staging in historic downtown Calumet before making the drive to the Keweenaw’s iconic “end of the road” destination, this annual gathering celebrates craftsmanship, nostalgia, and the stories behind the vehicles on display. Enjoy a day of local charm, great conversation, and a unique car show experience surrounded by Lake Superior scenery.

CENTRAL MINE REUNION

Step back in time at the Central Mine Reunion, an annual homecoming celebration held on the last Sunday of July in the historic Central Mine Historic District. Once a thriving mining community of more than 1,200 residents, Central Mine has welcomed former residents, descendants, and visitors for this tradition since 1907. Experience the stories, music, fellowship, and rich heritage of this remarkable ghost town as the community gathers to honor the past and preserve its legacy for future generations.

PASTY FEST

Main Street Calumet’s Pasty Fest celebrates one of the Copper Country’s most iconic traditions: the pasty. Once a hearty meal that fueled Cornish miners through long days underground, this beloved food staple continues to bring locals and visitors together today. Enjoy a lively downtown celebration featuring a parade, live music, street festivities, children’s activities, and plenty of pasties and other local favorites. With a fun Medieval Renaissance theme, Pasty Fest offers a unique blend of whimsy, history, heritage, and hometown celebration in the heart of Calumet.

Say "Hi!" to Cousin Jack!

THIMBLEBERRY FESTIVAL 

The Keweenaw Thimbleberry Festival is a fresh take on a beloved tradition — a week of community-rooted events highlighting the tiny berry with big local pride. Head to participating farmers markets, local establishments, and nature areas for thimbleberry-themed food, drink, art, tastings, family adventures, and more — all connected by the spirit (and flavor!) of the thimbleberry!

KEWEENAW WEEK & MINERAL DAYS | MICHIGAN MINERAL EVENTS

Celebrate the Keweenaw Peninsula’s world-famous mineral heritage during a week of collecting, exploration, and discovery. From guided mine site excursions and educational programs to the Annual Gem & Mineral Show, these concurrent events showcase the unique geology, mining history, and natural treasures that make the Keweenaw a destination for mineral enthusiasts from around the world.

• Keweenaw Mineral Days
  Hosted by the A. E. Seaman Mineral Museum, Keweenaw Mineral Days offers a week of mineral-focused experiences including invited speakers, surplus mineral sales, and more. Whether you're a longtime collector or new to the world of minerals, this annual tradition offers a unique way to connect with the geological wonders of the Keweenaw.

• Keweenaw Week
  Hosted by the Copper Country Rock and Mineral Club, Keweenaw Week features hands-on opportunities to experience the Keweenaw’s historic mining landscape through guided field trips to iconic mine sites, collecting excursions, and educational experiences. From historic copper mines to rare mineral discoveries, these adventures offer a behind-the-scenes look at the geology that shaped the region.

• Quincy Mine Rock Swap
  Discover unique geological treasures and mining history at the Quincy Mine Rock Swap, a free all-day event held at the historic Quincy Mine. Browse a wide variety of rocks, minerals, fossils, jewelry, mining artifacts, and collectibles from vendors and enthusiasts while exploring one of the Keweenaw’s most iconic historic sites. Visitors can also book a Quincy Mine tour, explore the grounds, and experience the region’s rich copper mining heritage throughout the day.

EAGLE HARBOR ART FAIR

For more than six decades, the Eagle Harbor Art Fair has brought artists and art lovers together along the shores of Lake Superior. Browse original creations from talented regional artists, featuring everything from handcrafted jewelry and ceramics to paintings, photography, textiles, and more at this beloved Keweenaw tradition

GREAT DEER CHASE

Take on the trails at the Great Deer Chase, a mountain bike race celebrating the singletrack of Swedetown Recreation Area in Calumet. With long, medium, short, youth, and adventure ride options, this event offers a chance for riders of all ages and abilities to race, explore, and enjoy one of the Keweenaw’s favorite trail systems.

ART IN THE PARK

Celebrate creativity along the shores of Lake Superior at Copper Harbor Art in the Park. This juried art fair held in Donny Kilpela Park the 3rd weekend of August features talented artists from across the Midwest showcasing original works in painting, photography, jewelry, ceramics, textiles, glass, metalwork, and more. Enjoy live music, local food, and a beautiful summer day in Copper Harbor while discovering one-of-a-kind pieces to take home.

COPPER HARBOR TRAILS FEST

Hosted by the Copper Harbor Trails Club, Copper Harbor Trails Fest celebrates the trails, community, and adventure that make Copper Harbor a mountain biking destination. The three-day Labor Day weekend event features XC, downhill, enduro, junior MTB races, a 10K trail run, live music, local food, and plenty of good times for riders, runners, and outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

Keweenaw Mountain Lodge Copper Harbor Trails Fest is one of the Midwest’s most beloved MTB events.

FESTIVAL OF NATIONS

 Since 1989, the Festival of Nations has celebrated the diverse cultures and international connections that make the Keweenaw community unique. Evolving from a long-standing community tradition, the festival brings Michigan Tech students, local residents, and visitors together at the Dee Stadium in Houghton for global flavors, live entertainment, cultural displays, family-friendly activities, and a celebration of traditions from around the world.

KEWEENAW BREWFEST

The Keweenaw Brewfest brings craft beer, live music, and waterfront views to Houghton’s Downtown Waterfront Pier each fall. Hosted by the Rotary Club of Houghton, this annual celebration features a diverse lineup of Michigan-made brews, international favorites, and craft non-alcoholic selections, along with food trucks and plenty of good company. As a charitable fundraiser, Brewfest offers a fun-filled afternoon of sipping, sampling, and supporting the Keweenaw community.

GEEK U.P. MINI-CON

Geek U.P. is an annual Mini-Con that celebrates art and geek culture (local and abroad) through comics, cosplay, video games, and more. This interpretive geek festival brings fandom with discovery, all while raising money for charity. ! The mini-con features celebrity guests, an artists' alley, vendors, a fun cosplay contest, workshops, panels, and gaming tournaments as well as break-out events.

OKTOBERFEST AT THE HARBOR HAUS

Get a kickstart on the fall season in Copper Harbor during the Harbor Haus's annual Oktoberfest! Held inside The Vue events center at the Haus, enjoy UP craft Oktoberfest beer, German/Austrian food, live polka music, and dancing! Enjoy the beginning of fall colors on your drive north and raise your mug to the Copper Country! Prost!

CANAL COLORS FESTIVAL

Celebrate fall along the Portage Canal during Canal Colors Festival, a weekend celebration of autumn in downtown Houghton. Surrounded by colorful hillsides reflected across the water, this annual collage of events brings together community traditions, outdoor fun, and classic U.P. fall vibes.

• BREW STREET
  Downtown Houghton’s annual craft beer celebration brings local brews, live music, and community together along the waterfront. Enjoy fresh pours, good company, and a toast to Copper Country’s brewing heritage. (21+)
• PLAIDURDAY
  Celebrate the Yooper-loved pattern of plaid during this annual community tradition. Don your favorite flannel and join the crowd for a one-of-a-kind group photo celebrating all things plaid.
• KEWEENAW COLOR RUN
  Grab your friends and family for a colorful, untimed 5K walk/run through downtown Houghton. Color stations along the route will splash you with color dust making for a wildly colorful race!
• HOUGHTON FALL FEST
  Enjoy a family-friendly celebration of autumn at the Houghton Waterfront Pier. Take part in fall activities, live music, tractor rides, cider, fresh donuts, and seasonal fun for all ages.

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Fall Fest is a family-friendly event celebrating autumn in the Keweenaw. | Photo by Bryana Palosaari

OKTOBERFEST IN SOUTH RANGE

Oktoberfest in South Range returns with a fun-filled day of events! Start the day with a pancake breakfast at Range Lounge, participate in 5K/10K walk/ run at Veteran's Memorial Park, and then enjoy family-friendly fun and music in the park. Hit up Main Street for a Classic Car Show, or stop by the Keweenaw Brewing Company for their annual Open House. Refreshments, like traditional brats, sauerkraut, and pretzels & cheese will be available, along with live music to keep you dancing into the night! 

TREAT STREET

Come dressed in your Halloween best with your little ghoul or goblin to this annual trick-or-treating spook-tacular in the City of Houghton! This downtown-wide event shuts down Shelden Avenue for trick or treating at local businesses, trunk-or-treats, and all manner of fun family-friendly Halloween activities.

WOLF'S HEAD FILM FESTIVAL

The Wolf’s Head Film Festival brings independent, weird, and wonderful cinema to Hancock’s historic Orpheum Theater. Enjoy curated indie horror short films, feature screenings, filmmaker conversations, and quirky film experience celebrating the eerie side of fall n the Keweenaw.

HAUNTED QUINCY MINE TOUR

Hosted by Michigan Tech Theatre, the haunted tours at the Quincy Hoist House or Quincy Smelter are an annual fright fest! Visitors should expect jump scares, flickering and strobing lights, and loud sounds inside these historic Copper Country copper mining locations. Youth under 12 years old must be accompanied by an adult. All proceeds from this spooky event support the Quincy Mine Hoist Association.

41 N FILM FESTIVAL

The 41 North Film Festival showcases recent independent films and filmmakers from around the region, country, and world. From short films to full length films, the 41 N Film Festival covers a variety of topics and themes every year. 

HANCOCK CHRISTMAS WALK

Come one, come all to the City of Hancock for a festive Christmas Walk! This fun-filled family event takes place on Quincy Street and is sure to help you get in the holiday spirit! From cookie decorating, horse-drawn wagon rides, and hot chocolate to tree lighting with Santa and warm fire barrels, this is one holiday event you do not want to miss! 

HANCOCK LIGHTS THE NIGHT

Drive through fantastical holiday lights displays throughout the Hancock Recreation RV Park! This free annual tradition dazzles throughout the post-Thanksgiving holiday season. The inaugural event was proudly sponsored in part by a Visit Keweenaw Destination Development Grant!

Hancock nights are merry and bright!

POOR ARTISTS SALE

The Poor Artists Sale is an annual juried holiday art fair hosted by the Copper Country Community Arts Council as a benefit for the Community Arts Center in Hancock.  It’s a great place to do your holiday shopping.   More than 60 artists and fine craftspersons will be selling their work.  Shoppers will find handmade jewelry and pottery, holiday wreaths, ornaments, baskets, wood art, glass, rugs, fiber arts, photography, and many other special items made by local artists. Shop and visit with friends in a relaxing, social atmosphere and enjoy homemade treats at the hospitality table.  This event is held at the CLK Gymnasium in Calumet.

HOUGHTON WINTER WONDERLAND

All are welcomed to enjoy the magic of the holiday season during Downtown Houghton's Winter Wonderland Celebration. Cozy up with a cup of hot chocolate and take a rustic horse-drawn carriage ride along the scenic Keweenaw Waterway. Enjoy views of the iconic Portage Lake Lift Bridge while traveling along the city's holiday-themed illuminated winter trail. Say "Hi" to Santa and tell him your Christmas wishes while listening to the enchanting sounds of Christmas Carolers'. Festive lighting displays, holiday tunes, and perfect family photo opportunities will be sure to bring about lots of holiday cheer! 

Make family memories that will last a lifetime at Houghton Winter Wonderland. 

WINTER WONDERFEST & PARK LIGHTING

Celebrate Christmas in Michigan's northernmost town of Copper Harbor! Each year there is a holiday marketplace, scrumptious bake sale, Santa Claus, and a Tree lighting in Donny Kilpela Memorial Park. There are also usually fireworks! 

HOUGHTON NEW YEAR'S EVE CHOOK DROP

The Houghton NYE Chook Drop invites all to be a part of the new year spectacle. Enjoy a classic drop at midnight on Houghton’s waterfront pier, signifying the start of the new year and celebrating the end of old! Stay cozy around the fire and jam to live music! Chooks are the name of the soft and hardy hats people wear to stay warm during winter. Sometimes called beanies, the hats are a popular staple in the Keweenaw much like plaid. The brand Yooper Chook popularized the style in 2009 and remains a leading brand in the Upper Peninsula.

Start the New Year off right in the Keweenaw!