Keep It In The UP!

Better Together in the Keweenaw
2025-11-13 09:30 UTC | Zion Lutheran Church, 13511 Roland Lake Road, Skanee, Michigan, 49962
Better Together will meet on Thursday, November 13 at 9:30 at the Zion Lutheran Church on 400 Ingot Street in Hancock. The speakers will be Marlain, Jonathan and Felix Birdi, missionaries to India. Their presentation will be “How lives are changed through Jesus.” Special music will be provided by recording artist Yvonne Blake from Ontonagon. All area women are cordially invited to attend this inspiring and fun event. A brunch will be served and there is a suggested donation of $10. All proceeds over the cost of the event will be donated to local charities. To reserve a spot by calling Barb Worrall at 906-523-4445 or email judyusitalo@hotmail.com. The group has a Facebook page at Better Together in the Keweenaw for more information about the group.

Party with the Arts & Shaft Reception
2025-11-13 18:00 - 20:00 | Copper Country Community Arts Center, 126 Quincy Street, Hancock, Michigan, 49930
Come party with us this Thursday!
Party with the Arts is an annual celebration hosted by the CCCAC board at the Arts Center. Renew your membership or join, meet other members, enjoy food, live music by Bob Hiltunen, a silent auction, and the receptions for our annual SHAFT exhibition, Northern Woods youth exhibition, and 60 Tiny Galleries.
The CCCAC volunteer board of directors is Stephanie Carpenter, Ellen Campbell, Beth Cook, Linda Lohmann, Mat Moore, Susanna Peters, and Ian Raymond. Our staff are Cynthia Cote and Bonnie Loukus. Interested in volunteering or learning more about the CCCAC? Talk to us at the party!
The public is also invited to vote for their favorite SHAFT pieces that evening and throughout the month. Votes will be tallied and the Community Choice Awards for Shaft winners will be announced in December.

Join us for Party with the Arts, this Thursday
November 13th from 6-8pm!

KBIC Boarding School Update Gathering
2025-11-14 10:00 | Ojibwa Senior Citizens, 208 Main Avenue, Baraga, Michigan, 49908
Honoring our History Healing for Our Future KIBC BOARDING SCHOOL UPDATE
November 14, 2025
Ojibwa Seniors, Baraga, MI
10am / Lunch to Follow
Join us as we share updates on the ongoing work surrounding Native American Boarding Schools and the efforts to seek truth, understanding, and healing.

This gathering will include:

An overview of the proposed report to the State of Michigan
Historical background and current finding
Recommendations on addressing Michigan’s boarding school history
Open discussion to honor and represent our KBIC survivors and descendants
Information on survivor outreach efforts to the Michigan Attorney General
For more information: Rodney Loonsfoot 906-201-0064

Marquette Holistic Health Fair
2025-11-15 10:00 - 16:00 | Northern Center, NMU, 1401 Presque Isle Avenue, Marquette, Michigan, 49855
Connect with Like-Minded Individuals at the Marquette Holistic Health Fair

The Third Annual Marquette Holistic Health Fair, taking place on November 15th, offers a diverse array of holistic products and services and provides an opportunity for community members to connect with like-minded people who share their passion for holistic well-being. From 10:00 am to 4:00 pm at the Northern Center, Northern Michigan University, attendees will have the chance to explore various holistic offerings, including massage therapy, assessments and information, energy work, handcrafted products, tarot and oracle card readings, mental health therapy dogs, and much more.

The Marquette Holistic Health Fair will also feature a wide variety of presentations throughout the day. Attendees can explore topics like Acupuncture and Women’s Health, Ways to Achieve Batter Sleep, and Qi Gong, among others.

The event is free to attend, and the first 100 guests will receive a Marquette Holistic Health Fair Guide, which includes information about the event and special offers from our vendors! Plus, attendees can win door prizes—just make sure you’re present to claim yours! Come join us, connect with your holistic wellness community, and rejuvenate your mind, body, and spirit at the Marquette Holistic Health Fair.

For further details and to stay updated, please visit www.mqtholistichealthfair.com

Bigfoot Fest
2025-11-15 13:00 - 16:00 | Keweenaw Storytelling Center, 215 5th Street, Calumet, Michigan, 49913
Bigfoot Fest coming to the Keweenaw Storytelling Center
Step into the extraordinary world of Bigfoot at the Keweenaw Storytelling Center on Saturday, November 15th. We’ve invited the elusive creature to come out of the woods for a daylong celebration.

From 1:00 to 4:00 PM, lose yourself in a mesmerizing array of Bigfoot-themed activities. Embark on a scavenger hunt, unleash your creativity with unique crafts, and participate in our comical “big FEET” contest. Test your vocal prowess in our Bigfoot calling competition, bring your imagination to life at our Bigfoot animation station, and create lasting memories in our whimsical Bigfoot photo booth. Participants will have the opportunity to take part in our Keweenaw Cryptid contest. (A cryptid is any creature that may or may not exist) An array of materials will be available for people to create their cryptids on site or individuals may bring those they’ve completed at home. Entries will be on display in the Center’s front window through the end of November)

Prepare to be inspired by the Bigfoot poetry of Martin Achatz, a true master of cryptid verse. The day culminates in an exclusive Q&A session with filmmaker Ronnie Ferguson, who will offer fascinating insights into the creation of “Bigfoot and Marty” – a captivating documentary exploring the work of two-time Poet Laureate of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and renowned “Bigfoot Poet,” Marty Achatz, as he tracks the elusive creature… one poem at a time. Afternoon activities are free and appropriate for all ages.

Bigfoot Banquet Fundraiser.

As the sun sets on our Bigfoot extravaganza, join us for our Bigfoot Banquet Fundraiser from 6-8pm. The a feast fit for Sasquatch himself! Indulge in a hearty meal catered by the Bonfire, featuring butternut squash lasagna, savory Bigloaf, comforting soup, and crisp salad. Enhance your dining experience with the melodious accompaniment of guitarist Jerry Younce and pianist Mark Spreitzer, both members of the RPM board.

But wait, there’s more! Delight in additional music and poetry performances by Martin Achatz and Ronnie Ferguson, followed by an enlightening Q&A session with Ferguson about his documentary “Marty and Bigfoot.” Seize the opportunity to capture a photo with Bigfoot.

Elevate your evening by participating in our silent auction, featuring extraordinary items and experiences including a three-night glamping experience (or airbnb) stay on Beaver Island, the largest island in Lake Michigan. Who knows – you might even catch a glimpse of the elusive Bigfoot!

Your participation in this fundraiser directly supports the Keweenaw Storytelling Center, our ambitious Starlight Cafe capital campaign, and our community-enriching programs. With your help, we aim to hire an operations manager upon completion of the Starlight Cafe, transforming our entirely volunteer-based organization into a sustainable beacon of creativity and culture. Join us for this family-friendly event and be part of something truly extraordinary! Tickets for the fundraiser are available through the Real People Media website: www.realpeoplemedia.org

Marty Achatz, co-host of The Red Jacket Jamboree, is a two-time Poet Laureate of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. His impressive body of work includes multiple poetry books and albums, such as “Mysteries of the Rosary” (Mayapple Press) and “Jazzing with Bigfoot” (Eternal Playground / Harvard Square Press). Achatz’s magnum opus, “A Bigfoot Bestiary and Other Wonders,” a labor of love spanning over two decades, is now available from Modern History Press.

Ronnie Ferguson is an accomplished poet, filmmaker, and musician. His band STREAKING IN TONGUES has garnered acclaim across several album releases. Ferguson’s experimental full-length documentary, “Bigfoot and Marty,” clinched the Independent Spirit Award at Midwest Weirdfest. His literary prowess shines through in his ongoing poetry series titled “Selfies” (Harvard Square Press), with the latest installment, “Divorce Comedy,” now available.

Don’t miss out on this unique event benefiting the KSC! Seating for the Banquet is limited, so secure your tickets now through the Real People Media website at www.realpeoplemedia.org. Join us for an unforgettable celebration of myth, mystery, and community spirit!

KBOCC welcomes James Vukelich
2025-11-17 18:00 | Niiwin Akeaa Community Center, 111 Beartown Road, Baraga, Michigan, 49908
Join Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa Community College on Monday, November 17th at 6pm at the Niiwinas Akeaa Center Gymnasium as we welcome James Vukelich, a member of the Turtle Mountain Band of Ojibwe and a renowned international speaker, digital creator, and author to KBOCC! This event is FREE and open to the public. No registration required.

Michigan Tech Theatre "Men on Boats"
2025-11-18 00:00 - 2025-11-21 23:59 | McArdle Theatre, MTU, Houghton, MI, 49931, United States
Men on Boats, Michigan Tech Theatre’s first play of the 2025/26 Season

Michigan Tech Theatre is thrilled to announce the cast for Men on Boats, a play by Jacklyn Backhaus, directed by Nich Radcliffe.

What: Men on Boats, a play by Jacklyn Backhaus
When: 7:30 p.m. | Thurs-Sat, November 18-21, 2025
Where: McArdle Theatre Tickets

Pay As You’re Able Tickets for this event are available online or in person at the Rozsa Box Office. This event is eligible for free Michigan Tech Student Rush Tickets.

How to Reserve Free Michigan Tech Student Rush Tickets.

Men On Boats tells the ‘mostly’ true story of ten explorers who set off in 1869 to chart the Green and Colorado Rivers under the guidance of John Wesley Powell, a one-armed Civil War Veteran.

This satirical retelling of historical events is made even more interesting by the author’s insistence that all characters are to be played by anyone except white males, who made up the entirety of the actual expedition. This casting twist puts the words and actions of the characters into a different context, providing plenty of laughs as well as extremely touching moments.

“It’s a really funny show, there’ll be no shortage of laughter I can promise you that,” says Paige Harsevoort, who plays the expedition’s leader John Wesley Powell. “But it’s also kinda hitting on some important topics that I think sometimes people don’t like to talk about. So I think it’s definitely an interesting story and it’s kind of eye opening.”

Sebastian Dash, who plays O. G. Howland in the production promises, “It was really fun for us to do, so I know it’s going to be fun for the audience too.”

This is Director Nich Radcliffe’s fourth production at Michigan Tech and after the previous success of last season’s “Glass Menagerie” and “Sweeny Todd: the Demon Barber of Fleet Street”, expectations are high. “I hope the audience leaves the theatre laughing,” says Radcliffe, “And I hope that laughter makes it easier to be honest with themselves, about the world, and about the place and the voice everyone deserves in it.”

The production features a talented cast of Michigan Tech students:

John Wesley Powell – played by Paige Harsevoort
William Dunn – played by Celia Peters
John Colton Sumner – played by Zoe Oetjens
Old Shady – played by Leona Lins
Bradley – played by Ysa Cerbo
O. G. Howland – played by Sebastian Dash
Seneca Howland – played by Drew Karimi
Frank Goodman – played by Lexi Meyer Hall – played by Abby Pilon
Details
What: Men on Boats, a play by Jacklyn Backhaus
When: 7:30 p.m. | Thurs-Sat, November 18-21, 2025
Where: McArdle Theatre Tickets
Pay As You’re Able Tickets for this event are available online or in person at the Rozsa Box Office. This event is eligible for free Michigan Tech Student Rush Tickets.
How to Reserve Free Michigan Tech Student Rush Tickets.

Superior Shark Tank Challenge
2025-11-20 17:30 - 19:30 | Hancock Community Hub Gym, 417 Quincy Street, Hancock, MI, 49930, United States
Superior Shark Tank Challenge – Breakwater Water Credit Union

Where Middle School & High School Innovators Pitch Superior Ideas to Copper Country Sharks
Thursday, November 20 from 5:30 – 7:30pm at the Hancock Community Hub

Students from all Copper Country schools are encouraged to participate and pitch their best business ideas in front of a panel of local “sharks” — business professionals, entrepreneurs, and community leaders. All pitches will be judged on the same set of criteria which students will have access to prior to the event. This ensures every participant knows what to expect and can prepare their pitch with confidence. Cash prizes will be awarded to the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place pitches in both the middle school and high school divisions, with additional recognition for special awards such as Audience Choice and Most Dynamic Pitch.

All local students can participate! Learn more at breakwaterfcu.org/shark-tank

Stuff a Blue Goose
2025-11-21 11:00 - 14:00 | Larry’s Market, 204 US Hwy 41, Baraga, Michigan, 49908
Troopers from the Michigan State Police Calumet Post and five grocery stores in Baraga and Houghton counties will be working together to host “STUFF A BLUE GOOSE” Harvest Gathering charity events. The purpose is to raise food donations for local food pantries.

Troopers will be at Taydch’s Marketplace in Houghton, Louie’s Super Foods in Lake Linden, Larry’s Market in Baraga, Pat’s Foods in L’Anse, Pat’s Foods in Calumet, to assist in the collection of donated food items. A “BLUE GOOSE” patrol car will be at the sites to haul donated items to local food pantries at the conclusion of the events. The events will be as follows:

Friday, November 21, 2025, from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Larry’s Market in Baraga

Wednesday, November 26, 2025, from 12 p.m. – 3 p.m. at Louie’s Super Foods in Lake Linden

Wednesday, December 3, 2025, from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Taydch’s Marketplace in Houghton

Thursday, December 11, 2025, from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. at Pat’s Foods in L’Anse

Thursday, December 11, 2025, from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. at Pat’s Foods in Calumet

All grocery stores will have pre-made bags available for purchase, which will be stuffed in the “BLUE GOOSE”. Each bag will be pre-filled with non-perishable food items. You may also donate your own non-perishable food items.

There is a significant need for food items in our local pantries and the participation and involvement from the public is greatly appreciated. Come help “STUFF A BLUE GOOSE”.

Gay VFD Auxiliary Holiday Festival Craft Show
2025-11-22 10:00 - 15:00 | Gay Community Hall, 8878 Second Street, Gay, Michigan
Join us Saturday, November 22, from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. for the Gay VFD Auxiliary Holiday Festival Craft Show.

All of the spaces have been filled and our Boutique will feature Holiday Decor and winter apparel. We have many new and returning artisans, and crafters. Grab lunch from the award winning East Fork Pasty Co., and Copper Island Bagels. We will also have a bakery sale.
Come join in the festivities, have lunch and bring home some wonderful one of a kind Christmas gifts.
Saturday, November 22, from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
8878 Second Street, Gay, MI 49945

Holiday Craft & Vendor Show
2025-11-22 10:00 - 15:00 | American Legion Post 144, 115 N. Front Street, L'Anse, Michigan, 49946
HOLIDAY CRAFT & VENDOR SHOW

November 22nd from 10 to 3pm
American Legion Post #144
Kitchen Opens 11 – 2

Cindy’s Sweets, Little Huron, Tupperware, Huron Mountain Lapidary, Homemade Crafts & gifts, Handmade Cards, Homemade soaps, Quilts, Pillowcases, Fruitcakes & Much, Much More….

Keweenaw Support 4 Healthy Minds
2025-11-25 18:30 | Portage Lake District Library, 4585 W. Lakeshore Drive, Houghton, MI, 49908, United States
Keweenaw Support 4 Healthy Minds monthly meeting:

Tuesday, NOVEMBER 25th, 2025 @ 6:30 pm

Portage Lake District Library Meeting Room
Houghton, MI 49931

Keweenaw Support 4 Healthy Minds is a public group, and we welcome anyone interested in our mission: “to support healthy minds through connection and community.” Our goals are to talk more openly about mental health to reduce stigma, to build a resilient community by educating the public, and to support those at risk for mental health and substance use crises. We are on Facebook and our email address is ksup4healthyminds@gmail.com.

Stuff a Blue Goose
2025-11-26 12:00 - 15:00 | Louie’s Super Foods, 5400 Bridge Street, Lake Linden, Michigan, 49945
Troopers from the Michigan State Police Calumet Post and five grocery stores in Baraga and Houghton counties will be working together to host “STUFF A BLUE GOOSE” Harvest Gathering charity events. The purpose is to raise food donations for local food pantries.

Troopers will be at Taydch’s Marketplace in Houghton, Louie’s Super Foods in Lake Linden, Larry’s Market in Baraga, Pat’s Foods in L’Anse, Pat’s Foods in Calumet, to assist in the collection of donated food items. A “BLUE GOOSE” patrol car will be at the sites to haul donated items to local food pantries at the conclusion of the events. The events will be as follows:

Wednesday, November 26, 2025, from 12 p.m. – 3 p.m. at Louie’s Super Foods in Lake Linden

Wednesday, December 3, 2025, from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Taydch’s Marketplace in Houghton

Thursday, December 11, 2025, from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. at Pat’s Foods in L’Anse

Thursday, December 11, 2025, from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. at Pat’s Foods in Calumet

All grocery stores will have pre-made bags available for purchase, which will be stuffed in the “BLUE GOOSE”. Each bag will be pre-filled with non-perishable food items. You may also donate your own non-perishable food items.

There is a significant need for food items in our local pantries and the participation and involvement from the public is greatly appreciated. Come help “STUFF A BLUE GOOSE”.

Baraga's Crafted Treasures Bazaar
2025-11-29 11:00 - 15:00 | KBIC old Big Bucks Bingo Hall, 16449 Michigan Avenue, Baraga, MI, 49908, United States
Baraga’s Crafted Treasures Bazaar
November 29th, 2025 from 11am – 3pm
Located in the old Big Bucks Bingo Hall

Homemade Baked goods, Crafts, Home Decor, Skin Care, Holiday Decorations, Clothing, Jewelry, Resin, Wood art, and more!

PHOTOS WITH SANTA 12PM – 2PM

Rex Robins Indian Tacos and Frybread
Basket Raffles proceeds being donated to the KBIC Commodities Food Program

Hancock Lights the Night
2025-11-29 17:30 - 20:00 | Hancock Campground, 2000 Jasberg Street, M203, Hancock, Michigan, 49930
Hancock Lights the Night: A New Tradition Shines Bright to Celebrate the Holiday Season

The City of Hancock is proud to announce Hancock Lights the Night, a brand-new holiday tradition that will transform the Hancock Campground into a winter wonderland of light and color.

More than 24 local businesses, organizations, groups, clubs, and individuals have each adopted a campsite along a festive loop inside the campground, creating unique and creative light displays. The rest of the campground will come alive with holiday sparkle and cheer provided by the City of Hancock—creating a magical setting for visitors of all ages.

This family-friendly event is designed for kids of all ages and anyone who loves the Christmas season. Visitors will be able to drive slowly through the campground to view amazing holiday displays. Follow the City of Hancock’s social media for special nights at the Campground that feature a walking night, visits from Santa, fundraising efforts, and more.

The GRAND OPENING of Hancock Lights the Night will take place on Saturday, November 29th at 5:30 pm at the Hancock Campground. After the opening night celebration, the light displays will be open to the public Thursdays through Saturdays from 5:30 to 8:00 pm throughout the holiday season.

This event is made possible through the generous support of the Visit Keweenaw Destination Fund Grant, the City of Hancock, and the many local partners and volunteers whose hard work and creativity made this community celebration possible.

Beyond its beauty, Hancock Lights the Night showcases how collective effort can create something truly special—boosting local pride, attracting visitors, and highlighting our communities as a welcoming, vibrant place to live and visit. Come experience the magic, warmth, and wonder of the holidays at HANCOCK LIGHTS THE NIGHT—a shining new tradition in the City of Hancock!

For updates and more information, visit www.cityofhancock.com or follow the City of Hancock on social media.

POSTPONED ----- MI-Trale December Monthly Meeting
2025-12-01 19:00 | Stannard Township Hall, 14927 State Hwy M-28 East, Bruce Crossing, Michigan, 49912
FOR SAFETY’S SAKE, POSTPONING – December Monthly Meeting will be held at 7:00pm, (Eastern Time), in person at the Stannard Township Hall on 12/01/2025. For virtual attendance, we now have ZOOM available, along with the strictly audio/phone method. If you would like to attend virtually, please email me at this address and I will get you the connection information.

If you are in the area, please stop in for the meeting! We’d love to see you there!

Stuff a Blue Goose
2025-12-03 11:00 - 14:00 | Tadych’s Marketplace Foods, 1000 W. Sharon Avenue, Houghton, Michgian, 49931
Troopers from the Michigan State Police Calumet Post and five grocery stores in Baraga and Houghton counties will be working together to host “STUFF A BLUE GOOSE” Harvest Gathering charity events. The purpose is to raise food donations for local food pantries.

Troopers will be at Taydch’s Marketplace in Houghton, Louie’s Super Foods in Lake Linden, Larry’s Market in Baraga, Pat’s Foods in L’Anse, Pat’s Foods in Calumet, to assist in the collection of donated food items. A “BLUE GOOSE” patrol car will be at the sites to haul donated items to local food pantries at the conclusion of the events. The events will be as follows:

Wednesday, December 3, 2025, from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Taydch’s Marketplace in Houghton

Thursday, December 11, 2025, from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. at Pat’s Foods in L’Anse

Thursday, December 11, 2025, from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. at Pat’s Foods in Calumet

All grocery stores will have pre-made bags available for purchase, which will be stuffed in the “BLUE GOOSE”. Each bag will be pre-filled with non-perishable food items. You may also donate your own non-perishable food items.

There is a significant need for food items in our local pantries and the participation and involvement from the public is greatly appreciated. Come help “STUFF A BLUE GOOSE”.

2025-12-04 17:30 | Heritage Center, 435 Quincy Street, Hancock, Michigan, 49930
On December 4, beginning at 5:30 p.m., the Heritage Center, located at 435 Quincy Street in Hancock will host its annual celebration of Finland’s independence, an occasion the Finnish-American community of the Copper Country has marked each year since 1918. Featuring performances by the Kivajat Dancers and the newly-formed Kuparikielet youth folk dance band, attendees will surely be uplifted to see such high levels of engagement in cultural preservation by today’s young people. Keeping with recent tradition, the program will also include the announcement of the 2026 Hankookin Heikki, the person honored for significant contributions to the advancement of Finnish-American and Finnish culture in the area.
The program’s keynote speaker will be Upper Michigan TV personality Mandy Koskela, who has embraced her immersion into the Finnish-American culture of the U.P. since moving here in 2023. She’ll share her perspectives about her fondness for her roots and just how deep they go in this region.
“It’s rewarding to see that almost every aspect of our program, from the presenters to the speaker, includes representatives of the next generations,” Heritage Center Director David Maki said. “Young people taking interest in history and culture is tangible proof that what we’re doing is sustainable – and it matters.”
Immediately following the Independence Day event, the Heritage Center will host an opening reception for its newest art exhibit, the Friends of Finland youth exhibit, which includes works from four high schools in and near the U.P., as well as individual submissions from students outside the Midwest. Much of this work is inspired by Finnish modernist painter Helene Schjerfbeck, who is the first Finnish artist exhibited at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.
“It’s been interesting to see how elementary and high school students took what they learned about Finnish culture and interpreted it in their own ways,” said interim Gallery Director ClareZuraw. “From joyful bursts of color, to contemplative self-portraits, these young artists have created a memorable show.”
For more information about this evening of celebration, call (906) 487-7549 or (906) 370-3722.

2025-12-04 17:30 | Finnish American Heritage Center, 435 Quincy Street, Hancock, Michgian, 49930
Finlandia Foundation hosting evening of celebration
It’s been at least four generations since Finland achieved its independence in 1917, and this year’s observance of that courageous achievement at the
Finnish American Heritage Center will put several members of our youngest generation in the spotlight.
On December 4, beginning at 5:30 p.m., the Heritage Center, located at 435 Quincy Street in Hancock will host its annual celebration of Finland’s independence, an occasion the Finnish-American community of the Copper Country has marked each year since 1918. Featuringperformances by the Kivajat Dancers and the newly-formed Kuparikielet youth folk dance band, attendees will surely be uplifted to see such high levels of engagement in cultural preservation by today’s young people. Keeping with recent tradition, the program will also include theannouncement of the 2026 Hankookin Heikki, the person honored for significant contributions to the advancement of Finnish-American and Finnish culture in the area.
The program’s keynote speaker will be Upper Michigan TV personality Mandy Koskela, who has embraced her immersion into the Finnish-American culture of the U.P. since moving here in2023. She’ll share her perspectives about her fondness for her roots and just how deep they go in this region.
“It’s rewarding to see that almost every aspect of our program, from the presenters to thespeaker, includes representatives of the next generations,” Heritage Center Director David Maki said. “Young people taking interest in history and culture is tangible proof that what we’re doing is sustainable – and it matters.”
Immediately following the Independence Day event, the Heritage Center will host an opening reception for its newest art exhibit, the Friends of Finland youth exhibit, which includes works from four high schools in and near the U.P., as well as individual submissions from students outside the Midwest. Much of this work is inspired by Finnish modernist painter HeleneSchjerfbeck, who is the first Finnish artist exhibited at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.
“It’s been interesting to see how elementary and high school students took what they learned about Finnish culture and interpreted it in their own ways,” said interim Gallery Director Clare Zuraw. “From joyful bursts of color, to contemplative self-portraits, these young artists have created a memorable show.”
For more information about this evening of celebration, call (906) 487-7549 or (906) 370-3722.

City of Houghton "Winter Wonderland"
2025-12-05 17:00 - 20:00 | Houghton, Houghton
The City of Houghton is pleased to announce Winter Wonderland, a festive community celebration taking place on the downtown pier Friday, December 5, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m.

This annual event will feature a variety of family-friendly activities designed to capture the spirit of the season:

 Santa Claus will greet children, with a mailbox for letters to the North Pole.
 Sleigh rides will be offered courtesy of VanElsacker Farms, with support from Visit Keweenaw, co-sponsor of the evening’s festivities.
 The Portage Lake District Library will host a holiday craft activity for children and families.
 Beloved Frozen characters will be present for meet-and-greet opportunities.
 Complimentary hot cocoa will be available to attendees.

“Winter Wonderland is a joyful way to kick off the holiday season,” says Danielle Perkowitz. “It’s a chance for our community to gather, celebrate, and create memories together.”

The event is free and open to the public. All are encouraged to attend and enjoy an evening of holiday lights, community spirit, and seasonal activities along the waterfront.

Event Details:

 Location: Downtown Houghton Pier
 Date: Friday, December 5, 2025
 Time: 5:00–8:00 p.m.

For more information, please contact feel free to contact Danielle Perkowitz, danielle@cityofhoughton.com

Annual Cookie Walk
2025-12-06 10:00 | United Lutheran Church, Main & Mesnard, L'Anse, MI, 49946, United States
Annual Cookie Walk
Saturday, December 6th
United Lutheran Church, Main & Mesnard, L’Anse
Doors open at 10:00 am

Let us do your Christmas baking….Mix and Match….
Choose your favorite cookies (buy by the pound), Breads, Candy
Bring a friend and stop by for morning coffee.

2025-12-06 10:30 - 14:30 | Copper Country Mall, 47420 Hwy M-26, Houghton, Michigan, 49931
Greetings, Everyone
You’re invited to help!

The HHSAA will be holding a FOOD and WINTER CLOTHING DRIVE | Saturday, December 6, 2025, 10:30am – 2:30pm in the parking lot of the Copper Country Mall. .
Non-perishable groceries and / or winter coats, jackets, snow pants, hats, mittens, gloves are needs.
Salvation Army in Hancock will be the beneficiary of food donations, and St Vincent De Paul the clothing.

Please join the fight…
and HELP SPREAD the WORD!

Michigan Tech Choirs Performance
2025-12-06 19:30 | St. Joseph Church, 701 Calumet Street, Lake Linden, Michigan, 49945
On Saturday, December 6, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Lake Linden, MI hosts the combined Choirs of Michigan Tech, conducted by Jared Anderson, to perform Sergei Rachmaninoff’s Vespers. The music is based on pre-existing and newly composed chants from the Russian Orthodox All-Night Vigil service. The vespers portion of the service comprises the first six movements of the fifteen movement work. Vespers services are focused on texts and chants related to evening prayer. “Rachmaninoff grew up attending services in the Orthodox church,” says Jared Anderson, “The chanting that he heard there, and the bells from the churches, had profound influences on his music.”

The Choirs of Michigan Tech have performed at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church on an annual basis and audiences look forward each year to experiencing these concerts in such a beautiful and unique setting. “For many years the choirs have presented Music for a Sacred Space, an opportunity to prepare music that was written for worship settings, often in churches that have a resonant acoustic environment,” says Anderson, “St. Joseph’s is a wonderful space to hear Rachmaninoff’s All-Night Vigil (Vespers). We are grateful for the opportunity to sing in that space.”

Pay as you are able tickets are still available online and at the door for this event. Don’t miss this final performance of the year from the Michigan Tech Choirs.

Houghton Country Jail Committee Update LWV
2025-12-08 16:00 | Houghton County Courthouse, 401 East Houghton Avenue, Houghton, MI, 49931, United States
Houghton County Jail issues are back on the front burner after the failure, in August, of a $32 million, 30-year bond millage vote. For a history of the jail discussion, please see the Past Jail Projects tab on the County’s website https://houghtoncounty.net.

Three committees have been formed and all three have met. The three committees are addressing 1) How to modify the jail plan to address voters’ concerns so that a millage can pass; 2) What to do with the building on the Sharon Avenue property and what to do with the old jail should a new one be authorized; and 3) What county-held properties could be sold to reduce the tax burden of financing a new jail. The discussions of the committees are being conducted in public meetings announced on the county’s website, https://houghtoncounty.net . There is often a Zoom/Teams option for attending virtually.

The first committee is called the Jail Committee. Chaired by Jared Hyrkas from UP Engineers and Architects, this is the largest committee and has the biggest job. As articulated by Chair Hyrkas in the committee’s minutes, their objective is “to get a new plan that the people can support.” The first meeting included getting-to-know-you discussions and a gathering of what members and attendees had heard were the voters’ objections to passing the August jail millage. The next meeting of this committee is Monday December 8 at 4pm in the 5th floor conference room in the Courthouse. The public is invited to attend; there will be a Zoom/Microsoft Teams option to attend and participate virtually.

The second committee (The Sharon Avenue Property-Use Committee) has focused on the former church building on the Sharon Avenue property. After two meetings, a tour of the building, and input from contractors and building experts, it appears that the deficiencies of the building are substantial. The difficulty is that the standards are high for a structure to be used by the county for anything jail related. At its second meeting, the committee voted to recommend that the building be demolished due to the high cost and futility of re-using the structure. The committee will report more details at the next Board of Commissioners meeting, which is Wednesday November 12 at 6pm in the Circuit Courtroom on the 3rd floor of the Courthouse. The public is invited to attend; there will be a Zoom/Microsoft Teams option to attend and participate (public comment) virtually.

The third committee (County-Held Properties Committee) has generated controversy due to a conflict over Canal View, the Houghton County medical care facility. Canal View, which is owned and operated by Houghton County, is a popular and cherished facility with an outstanding reputation in elder care and fiscal governance. In August 2025 Canal View’s operating millage was strongly supported by the voters of Houghton County.

What does Canal View have to do with the jail? The answer to this is that, as a county owned facility, Canal View represents an asset that the county holds. Some members of the community are advocating that sale of county-held assets be considered to raise funds for other county priorities, specifically the jail.

It is unclear how much support there is in the county or on the Board of Commissioners for selling county properties, especially Canal View. In the spring of 2025, this topic was raised in County Board discussions but not acted upon. After the failure of the August jail millage, and in the spirit of considering all options, the Board agreed to fully investigate the idea that sale of some county-held assets (mentioned were the Marina, Transfer Station, Airport, and yes, Canal View) could generate funds for the jail. This is not a commitment to selling any of the county’s assets—rather it is an acknowledgement that knowing the value of county-held assets will allow for a more complete assessment of any decision to retain or sell that asset.

The County-Held Properties Committee recommended to the County Board (as reported in the October 14 2025 Board Minutes) to put out a request for proposals (RFP) for an appraisal of both Canal View and the Houghton County Marina; the Board voted in October to do this. There has been substantial push-back from some members of the public and from the Canal View Board, as the RFP was interpreted as a step towards selling Canal View. This topic is slated to be revisited by the County Board at their next meeting, Wednesday November 12 at 6pm in the 3rd floor courtroom and online. As stated above, this meeting, and all County Board meetings, are open to the public and have the option of virtual attendance and public comment periods. The recent move of County Board meetings from 3pm in the small 5th floor conference room to 6pm in the much larger 3rd floor Circuit Court courtroom is intended to encourage participation by the public.

All citizens of Houghton County are encouraged to engage in the important discussion of how we address the advancing age and poor condition of the current jail and the lack of appropriate space for housing both inmates and Sheri ‘s services. This discussion has been ongoing for at least 25 years. The project costs keep going up, and the challenges posed by the current facilities keep growing. The League of Women Voters of the Copper Country are in favor of addressing these issues; and sooner, rather than later. For more information, please see the pages discussed here and the YouTube videos made earlier this year by the League (see links below; links available on County website as well).

Keweenaw Indivisible Public Gathering
2025-12-09 17:00 | Houghton County Courthouse, 401 East Houghton Avenue, Houghton, MI, 49931, United States
Keweenaw Indivisible, other community organizations, and the public will gather outside the Houghton County Circuit Court on Tuesday, December 9th starting at 5 PM, and to attend the Houghton County Board of Commissioners meeting at 6 PM, to voice concerns over a proposed board resolution to declare there are only two sexes.

DETAILS:

Houghton County Board of Commissioners Meeting

Tuesday, December 9th at 5 PM

Houghton County Circuit Court at 401 E Houghton Ave (3rd Floor) in Houghton

We hope you will be able to join us. We expect at least 100–200 people to attend.

Better Together presentation "The Wonder of Christmas"
2025-12-11 09:30 | Zion Lutheran Church, 13511 Roland Lake Road, Skanee, Michigan, 49962
Better Together will meet on Thursday, December 11 at 9:30 at the Zion Lutheran Church on 400 Ingot Street in Hancock. The speaker will be Kathy Ptaszek and her presentation will be “The Wonder of Christmas.” All area women are cordially invited to this special holiday event. A brunch will served and there is suggested donation of $10. All proceeds over the cost of the event will be donated to local charities. To reserve a spot, call Barb Worrall at 906-523-4445 or email judyusitalo@hotmail.com. This will be the last gathering until April 2026.

Stuff a Blue Goose
2025-12-11 13:00 - 16:00 | Pat’s Foods – L’Anse, 139 N. Main Street, L'Anse, MI, 49946, United States
Troopers from the Michigan State Police Calumet Post and five grocery stores in Baraga and Houghton counties will be working together to host “STUFF A BLUE GOOSE” Harvest Gathering charity events. The purpose is to raise food donations for local food pantries.

Troopers will be at Taydch’s Marketplace in Houghton, Louie’s Super Foods in Lake Linden, Larry’s Market in Baraga, Pat’s Foods in L’Anse, Pat’s Foods in Calumet, to assist in the collection of donated food items. A “BLUE GOOSE” patrol car will be at the sites to haul donated items to local food pantries at the conclusion of the events. The events will be as follows:

Thursday, December 11, 2025, from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. at Pat’s Foods in L’Anse

Thursday, December 11, 2025, from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. at Pat’s Foods in Calumet

All grocery stores will have pre-made bags available for purchase, which will be stuffed in the “BLUE GOOSE”. Each bag will be pre-filled with non-perishable food items. You may also donate your own non-perishable food items.

There is a significant need for food items in our local pantries and the participation and involvement from the public is greatly appreciated. Come help “STUFF A BLUE GOOSE”.

Stuff a Blue Goose
2025-12-11 13:00 - 16:00 | Pat’s Foods – Calumet, 56845 Station Drive, Calumet, Michigan, 49913

Let's Eat Free Community Meal
2025-12-11 16:00 - 17:30 | St. Ann’s Catholic Church, 318 Lyons Street, Baraga, Michigan, 49908
Let’s Eat Free Community Meal
sponsored by: Baraga County Chamber of Commerce
Eat inside for food and fellowship!!!

January 11, 2026 from 4pm – 5:30pm
St. Ann’s Catholic Church, Baraga, MI

Menu includes: BBQ pork on a bun, potato salad, fruit salad, dessert

Noteworthy Holiday Concert "A Holiday of Harmony"
2025-12-11 19:00 | Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Calumet, Michigan, 49913
Noteworthy Holiday Concert

7 p.m. Thurs., Dec. 11
Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Calumet

The women’s barbershop chorus Noteworthy will present a wide variety of popular and sacred music its annual holiday concert, “A Holiday of Harmony,” .
“We’re excited to be rolling out a number of contemporary classics, as well as an intricate arrangement of two Christmas hymns,” said Noteworthy director Joan Harbour. “I predict the audience will love this concert.”

Noteworthy is the region’s only women’s barbershop chorus, with a repertoire of singable melodies performed a cappella in four-part harmony.
Noteworthy will be joined by Maple Sugar Folk, which will perform a selection of French carols.

Admission is free to Noteworthy concerts. A free-will offering will be taken to benefit the Barbara Kettle Gundlach Shelter Home.
“We always welcome new members,” said Harbour. For more information about joining Noteworthy, email noteworthychorus@gmail.com or call 906-482-5088.
