Central UP Events

February 23, 2026-January 2, 2027 This exhibit showcases two hundred and fifty artifacts, photographs, and documents from our permanent collections. These objects connect local history to the national story while commemorating the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Declaration of Independence. Michigan’s Upper Peninsula has often seemed remote from the rest of the country. However, the themes and movements of U.S. history can be seen here as well, especially since the War of 1812. When the country braced for the Civil War, U.P. iron miners raced to uncover iron for the Union army’s railroads and ammunitions. When labor movements exploded following

May 1st through July 31st, 2026. Peter White Public Library Youth Services desk   Jurassic Art Reception on August 4th, 2026  3:00pm-6:00pm   Calling all young artists! Youth of all ages are encouraged to submit art to the Peter White Public Library Youth Services desk beginning May 1st through July 31st, 2026. Artists may find inspiration in the Summer Reading: Unearth a Story theme, but are not confined to the given theme for their art pieces. We ask that your submissions do not exceed 12 inches in any direction, and that only one art piece is submitted per child. Submissions

Step Right Up for the Greatest Show in Marquette County: U.P. Hospice Foundation Unveils ‘A Night Under the Big Top’ presented by Dancing with our Stars Marquette County Style! After ten unforgettable years of dancing, fundraising, and community spirit, the beloved event is evolving! This year’s production transforms the stage into a whimsical, high-energy circus-inspired celebration packed with excitement, creativity, and show-stopping performances- all in support of compassionate Hospice care throughout our community. Under the glow of the big top, local celebrity groups will team up with talented Marquette dance professionals to deliver unforgettable performances that go far beyond traditional

June 19 through Sept. 4. DeVos Art Museum Northern Michigan University’s DeVos Art Museum will host “North of the 45th,” an annual juried exhibition featuring artists living in Michigan, Wisconsin and Minnesota locations north of the 45th parallel, which is known as the halfway point between the equator and north pole. The show opens June 19 and will be on display through Sept. 4. The 2026 jurors are: Shane McAdams, an artist, writer, curator and educator from Cedarburg, Wis.; and Shane Walsh, a painter and teacher who splits his time between studios in Milwaukee and New York City. Both are

The Marquette Area Sister Cities Partnership is proud to announce the 2026 incoming delegation from our sister city Higashiomi, Japan, celebrating our 47th year of sister city relations. A delegation of seven Higashiomi citizens will arrive in Marquette on July 19 and depart on July 29, 2026, Our seven delegates are the Deputy Mayor, a Higashiomi City Council member, Higashiomi City Staff, members of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Higashiomi International Exchange Association, and Higashiomi citizens. The Marquette Area Sister Cities Partnership Committee is proud to host the events for the Sister City delegation. The Japanese delegation is led

July 27-31 Northern Michigan University will host the 2026 BIPOC Outdoors Summit & Rest Retreat July 27-31. While the events are designed to center the experiences of Black, Indigenous and People of Color in outdoor spaces, everyone is welcome to participate. The emphasis is on creating an environment that fosters belonging, reflection and engagement with nature. Programming will include outdoor adventures, skills workshops and discussions focused on leadership, wellness and community-building. Attendees will also have access to restorative spaces intended for reflection, connection and self-care.  The summit July 27-28 will feature keynote speakers, breakout sessions and local excursions. Block lodging

Enjoy a tour through town in an air-conditioned Checker bus. Sit back and relax, meet a few entertaining historic characters, and learn from the tour guide along the route. Each summer the tours include something new, and delight locals and tourists as well. 90-minute tour departs from and returns to the MRHC. Tickets are $25, and on sale now! Advanced purchase is recommended. These tours sell out fast. For more information and ticket purchase visit marquettehistory.org.   Eight total tours in July and August. July Bus Tours: 6:00 p.m Wednesdays: July 15, 22, 29   1:00 p.m Tuesdays: July 21 &

The Northern Michigan University Department of Music will present a second season of Its series, Summer Concerts at Reynolds (SCR). This year’s events will all take place at 5 p.m. in Reynolds Recital Hall on Tuesdays in July and August. Admission is free, though donations will be gratefully accepted, with all proceeds benefiting the department to enhance the experience for students. This summer, SCR is highlighting music department faculty members, who are highly trained professional musicians as well as full-time educators. They will present both solo and group performances. Further details will be shared at nmu.edu/music and the department’s social

Enjoy a tour through town in an air-conditioned Checker bus. Sit back and relax, meet a few entertaining historic characters, and learn from the tour guide along the route. Each summer the tours include something new, and delight locals and tourists as well. 90-minute tour departs from and returns to the MRHC. Tickets are $25, and on sale now! Advanced purchase is recommended. These tours sell out fast. For more information and ticket purchase visit marquettehistory.org.   Eight total tours in July and August. July Bus Tours: 6:00 p.m Wednesdays: July 15, 22, 29   1:00 p.m Tuesdays: July 21 &