Keep It In The UP!

Operation Action U.P. Annual Meeting
2026-02-12 00:00 - 23:59 UTC | Northern Center Grand Ballroom, NMU, Presque Isle Avenue, Marquette, Michgian, 49855
Operation Action U.P. Annual Meeting
Thursday, February 12, 2026

Each year, the members of Operation Action U.P. and the business community from across Michigan’s Upper Peninsula gather to review the accomplishments of the past year and cast the vision for the next.

The Operation Action U.P Excellence Awards recognize up to four outstanding for-profit businesses that have contributed to the economic well-being of the Upper Peninsula. At the Annual Meeting, these award winners will have the opportunity to spotlight their business and say thanks to the individuals or organizations who nominated them in this competitive award process.
Want to sponsor the Annual Meeting? Check out the sponsorship form here.
Sponsorships can also be easily set up through the registration process as well.

Register today!

NMU Jazz Concert
2026-02-11 19:30 | NMU Reynolds Recital Hall, Marquette, Michigan
Northern Michigan University’s Music Department will host a free jazz concert at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 11, in Reynolds Recital Hall. The event will feature the NMU Jazz Band, composed of nearly 20 players representing various academic majors and directed by Mark Flaherty, along with two smaller ensembles coached by Patrick Booth.
“We’ll be featuring a variety of music, from straight-ahead swing to more modern compositions,” Flaherty said. “The audience will have a chance to hear some great music by composers such as Thelonious Monk, Sonny Rollins, Gordon Goodwin, Megan Vinther and many others. Those who attend can look forward to a great evening of live music performed by talented student musicians.”
For the full schedule of upcoming NMU Music Department performances, visit nmu.edu/music.

NMU Music Dept host Free Jazz Concert
2026-02-11 19:30 | NMU Reynolds Recital Hall, Marquette, Michigan
Northern Michigan University’s Music Department will host a free jazz concert at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 11, in Reynolds Recital Hall. The event will feature the NMU Jazz Band, composed of nearly 20 players representing various academic majors and directed by Mark Flaherty, along with two smaller ensembles coached by Patrick Booth.

“We’ll be featuring a variety of music, from straight-ahead swing to more modern compositions,” Flaherty said. “The audience will have a chance to hear some great music by composers such as Thelonious Monk, Sonny Rollins, Gordon Goodwin, Megan Vinther and many others. Those who attend can look forward to a great evening of live music performed by talented student musicians.”

PWPL Presents: Sea Hounds in Concert
2026-02-11 18:30 - 19:30 | Peter White Public Library, 217 N Front Street, Marquette, MI, 49855
Wednesday, February 11, 2026.
6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.
Peter White Public Library Community Room.
Adults, Seniors, Family Friendly. In its debut on the Community Room stage, popular
local band Sea Hounds is ready to get PWPL clapping and tapping its unique blend of rock, folk, and indie music. For more information, contact Marty at 226-4322, machatz@pwpl.info, or visit pwpl.info.

Free QPR Training
2026-02-11 18:30 | Lake Linden-Hubbell Public School, 601 Calumet Street, Lake Linden, Michigan, 49945
Copper Shores Community Health Foundation invites community members to attend free QPR Training, followed by an optional Narcan Training, on Wednesday, February 11 at 6:30 p.m. at Lake Linden-Hubbell Public Schools. This training is open to parents, educators, healthcare professionals, faith leaders, business owners and any other community members interested in supporting mental health and saving lives in the community.

QPR stands for Question, Persuade, Refer; three simple yet powerful steps anyone can take to help someone in crisis. Those who complete the training learn to recognize the warning signs of a suicide crisis, such as expressions of hopelessness or depression, giving away prized possessions, talking about suicide or securing lethal means, and are taught how to respond with confidence, care and compassion.

An optional 30 minute Narcan Training will be offered immediately following the one hour QPR Training. Narcan Training teaches individuals how to recognize the signs of an opioid overdose and how to administer the opioid overdose reversal drug Naloxone. No prior experience or training is required for these sessions.

This training opportunity reflects Lake Linden–Hubbell Public Schools’ commitment to expanding access to mental health resources and reducing the stigma surrounding suicide for students and members of the broader community.
Register for free
Sign up by filling out the web form at coppershores.org. Registration for this training closes on Monday, February 9 at 12 p.m. For questions or concerns, contact Copper Shores Prevention Coordinator Lisa Simpson at lsimpson@coppershores.org or at 1 (906) 523-5920 ext. 2062.

Next Steps for nature with Doug Tallamy
2026-02-11 18:00 | Michigan Tech Forestry Building, Houghton, Michigan, 49931
“Next Steps for Nature” with Doug Tallamy plus panel Q&A
6 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 11
Room 144, Michigan Tech Noblet Forestry Building
In this video presentation, nationally known native plant expert Dr. Doug Tallamy answers questions on topics ranging from biodiversity and pest control to home landscaping and supporting wildlife. He also provides practical guidance on restoring nature in everyday spaces.
“Next Steps for Nature” will be followed by a live, local panel Q&A featuring KISMA coordinator Sigrid Resh, Michelle Anderson, of Keweenaw Wild Bird REC, Mary Richardson, ecological landscaper and owner of Richardson Landscaping and Michelle Wietek Stephens, owner of U.P. Native Plants.

Keweenaw Wild Ones screening of "Next Steps for Nature"
2026-02-11 18:00 | U.J. Noblet Forestry Building, Michigan Tech, Houghton, Michigan
– Date: Wednesday, February 11
– Time: 6 p.m.
– Location: Room 144, U.J. Noblet Forestry Building, Michigan Tech

Please join KISMA and Keweenaw Wild Ones for a screening of the “Next Steps for Nature” video featuring renowned native plant expert Doug Tallamy. In this video, Tallamy answers dozens of questions gathered from his many appearances.

The screening will be followed by a live, local panel discussion featuring:

– Sigrid Resh (KISMA)
– Michelle Wietek-Stephens (U.P. Native Plants nursery)
– Michelle Anderson (Keweenaw Wild Bird REC)
– Mary Richardson (native plant landscaper)

PWPL Presents: Teens Game On!
2026-02-11 15:00 - 18:00 | Peter White Public Library, 217 N Front Street, Marquette, MI, 49855
Wednesday, February 11, 2026.
3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Peter White Public Library Teen Zone.
Drop in for monthly gaming; we will have a selection of video games, board games and more. For youth in grades 6-12. No admission charge. For more information or to check the status of this program, call 906-226-4321, email Amanda at apierce@pwpl.info, visit pwpl.info, or find Peter White Public Library Teen Services on Instagram or Facebook.

Michigan LLC renewal process
2026-02-11 13:00 - 14:00 | Michigan Works, 1498 Odovero Dr, Marquette, MI, 49855, United States
Join HUB Navigator Liam Goetz for a practical, step-by-step overview of the Michigan LLC renewal process. This session will walk business owners through what is required to keep their LLC in good standing, including important deadlines, filing requirements, fees, and common mistakes to avoid.

Participants will also learn why filing matters, including how staying compliant protects your business, maintains limited liability status, avoids penalties, and supports long-term stability and growth. Whether you’re renewing for the first time or just want a refresher, this session will provide clear guidance, helpful tips, and time for questions.

Perfect for:
-New business owners
-Existing LLCs approaching their renewal deadline
-Anyone wanting to better understand compliance requirements

Free to attend. Registration encouraged. Lunch provided

Wednesday, February 11, 2026 | 1:00 p..m. – 2:00 p.m.
Michigan Works Conference Room 2 – 1498 Odovero Dr, Marquette, MI 49855

Marquette City Manager Community Office Hours
2026-02-11 10:00 - 12:00 | Peter White Public Library, 217 N Front Street, Marquette, MI, 49855
Marquette City Manager Karen Kovacs will hold her next community office hours on Wednesday, February 11, from 10 a.m. to noon in the Shiras Room, on the top level of Peter White Public Library (Front Street side). The meeting is intended to provide an informal opportunity to discuss issues within the community, and to give citizens the opportunity for direct dialogue with City staff about interests and concerns.

PWPL Presents: Baby Storytime
2026-02-11 10:00 - 10:30 | Peter White Public Library, 217 N Front Street, Marquette, MI, 49855
Wednesdays February (4, 11, 18, 25), 2026.
10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
Peter White Public Library Great Room.
Songs, rhymes, stories and finger-plays for newborns to 17 months with a loving adult. Older siblings are welcome. No admission charge. For more information and to check the status of the program, call 906-226-4323 or visit pwpl.info.

PWPL Presents: Muggles for Potter
2026-02-10 16:30 - 17:30 | Peter White Public Library, 217 N Front Street, Marquette, MI, 49855
Tuesday February 10, 2026.
4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Peter White Public Library Great Room.
All young wizards in 3rd-6th grade, welcome back to Hogwarts after our winter months break! Sit back and relax as you listen to the book read aloud while enjoying butter beer, jellybeans and an easy busy-hands Potter craft. No admission charge. For more information and to check the status of the program, call 906-226-4323 or visit pwpl.info.

PWPL Presents: Tasty Reads Book Group
2026-02-10 12:00 - 13:30 | Peter White Public Library, 217 N Front Street, Marquette, MI, 49855
Tuesday, February 10, 2026.
12:00 p.m. -1:30 p.m.
Peter White Public Library Heritage Room.
A book group for readers, who love to cook. With a focus on food-themed literature, the group explores a variety of books from cookbooks to culinary memoirs. Participants can enjoy tasty treats inspired by the book of the month while sharing their thoughts and connecting with others who share their passion for both literature and food. This month’s book is Danube: Recipes and Stories from Eastern Europe by Irina Georgescu. No admission charge. For more information call 906-226-4303 or visit pwpl.info.

PWPL Presents: Tech Coaching for Seniors
2026-02-10 10:00 - 13:00 | Peter White Public Library, 217 N Front Street, Marquette, MI, 49855
Tuesdays and Thursdays, February (10, 12, 17, 19, 24, 26), 2026.
10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Peter White Public Library Heritage Room.
Need help with the settings on your phone? Want to download the downtown parking app? Learn how to make your electronic devices work the way you want them to with the help of Christine Ault, retired teacher and librarian. Call the Reference Desk at 906-226-4311 to schedule your 30-minute session. Please charge your electronic device before each session, and bring passwords with you. No fees.

PWPL Presents: Preschool Storytime
2026-02-10 10:00 - 10:30, 2026-02-06 10:00 - 10:30 | Peter White Public Library, 217 N Front Street, Marquette, MI, 49855
Tuesdays & Fridays February (3, 6, 10, 13, 17, 20, 24, 27), 2026.
10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
Peter White Public Library Great Room.
Preschool age children. Stories, songs, finger-plays, crafts and other school-readiness activities for preschool age children and a loving adult. Siblings welcome. No admission charge. For more information and to check the status of the program, call 906-226-4323

PWPL Presents: Block Busting Cinema Dinner & a Movie: The Substance
2026-02-09 17:30 - 20:00 | Peter White Public Library, 217 N Front Street, Marquette, MI, 49855
Monday, February 9, 2026.
5:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m.
Peter White Public Library Community Room.
Adults, Seniors. Bring your dinners to PWPL and enjoy an evening of food and film. Tables will be available for dining. This month’s feature, The Substance, starring Demi Moore in an Oscar-nominated performance, was one of 2025’s most talked-about movies. Rated R. No admission charge. For more information, contact Marty at 226-4322, machatz@pwpl.info, or visit pwpl.info.

PWPL Presents: D&D Junior Campaign #1: Grades 4th & 5th
2026-02-09 16:30 - 18:00 | Peter White Public Library, 217 N Front Street, Marquette, MI, 49855
Mondays, February (9, 16, 23), 2026.
4:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Peter White Public Library Great Room.
In-person registration at the Youth Services Desk required to claim your spot in a fantasy adventure! Registration opens on January 12th. Registration will be for all 3 sessions of campaign #1. Experienced and first-time players welcome. No admission charge. For more information and to check the status of the program, call 906-226-4323 or visit pwpl.info.

Public Forum "How to Raise a Citizen (and Why It's Up to You to Do It)"
2026-02-08 10:30 - 11:30 | Keweenaw Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 604 Bridge Street, Houghton, MI, 49931, United States
The Keweenaw Unitarian Universalist Fellowship (KUUF) will host a public forum online titled “How to Raise a Citizen (and Why It’s Up to You to Do It)” from 10:30-11:30 a.m. on Sunday, February 8.

Lindsey Cormack, author of How to Raise a Citizen (and Why It’s Up to You to Do It), will talk about her book, which explains how and why parents must help their children to learn about politics and government.
The book is a guide for parents and adults on how to teach children about U.S. government and civic engagement, filling gaps left by formal education. It provides practical strategies for having age-appropriate, respectful political discussions at home, explains topics like the Constitution and voting, and encourages parents to model informed, curious, and balanced participation in a democracy. It argues that parents are crucial in raising engaged citizens who can navigate political discourse constructively.
Lindsey Cormack is an associate professor of political science and director of DCinbox at Stevens Institute of Technology in Hoboken, NJ.
She has run DCinbox since 2009, archiving and providing to the public all official e-newsletters sent by members of Congress. Cormack specializes in American politics. Her research has been published in Political Behavior, Congress & the Presidency, American Politics Research, The Legislative Scholar and many others, as well as in popular outlets including the New York Times, The Washington Post, NBC News, The Hill and more.
Forums are approximately one hour long. The public is invited to participate.
Join the forum via Zoom:
Meeting ID: 839 7576 2265; Passcode: [REDACTED]
Forums are recorded and available to the public. Visit the KUUF webpage for links to past forums: keweenawuu.org/worship/forums/

PWPL Presents: Art with Ella
2026-02-07 13:00 - 15:00 | Peter White Public Library, 217 N Front Street, Marquette, MI, 49855
Saturdays, February (7, 21), 2026.
1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Peter White Public Library Great Room.
Join NMU Art Education major Ella and create art! Kids of all ages are welcome – the
techniques used will be adaptable for kids of all ages and abilities. All supplies provided, drop-in program. Special Countdown to Valentine’s Day project on Saturday Feb. 7. Children under the age of 8 must have an adult in the program with them. No admission charge. For more information and to check the status of the program, call 906-226-4323 or visit pwpl.info.

PWPL Presents: Saturday Storytime
2026-02-07 11:00 - 11:30 | Peter White Public Library, 217 N Front Street, Marquette, MI, 49855
Saturdays, February (7, 14, 21, 28), 2026.
11:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Peter White Public Library Great Room.
Songs, rhymes, stories and finger-plays geared towards babies through preschool with a loving adult. Older siblings and older children welcome. No admission charge. For more information and to check the status of the program, call 906-226-4323 or visit pwpl.info.

PWPL Presents: Meditate Marquette Presents: A Year of Mindful Living
2026-02-07 10:00 - 11:30 | Peter White Public Library, 217 N Front Street, Marquette, MI, 49855
Saturday, February 7, 2026.
10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Peter White Public Library, George Shiras III Room.
Four mindfulness meditation and yoga teachers invite you to engage in a year of
mindful living. Each month, one of the teachers will present a topic that addresses the different dimensions where we can practice mindfulness and presence. The intent is for us to cultivate mindfulness, care, and well-being individually and in our love, business, and social relationships. These are drop-in sessions, although committing to a full year is a way to build a consistent mindfulness practice. For more information and to check on the status of the program, call 906-226-4303 or visit pwpl.info.

Upper Michigan Ice Races
2026-02-07 00:00 - 23:59 | MI
150 West Johnson Lake Road, Gwinn, MI 49841

Dates: January 3, 2026 – March 14, 2026

Recurrence: Recurring weekly on Saturday

Get Ready For This Winter’s Biggest Adrenaline Rush: The Upper Michigan Ice Races

Are you ready to take your thrill-seeking to the next level? Join the Upper Michigan Ice Racing Association for an action-packed series of Weekly Ice Races held on Saturdays, where dirt bikes and quads tear up the ice in a battle of speed, skill, and sheer power!

The Upper Michigan Ice Races are open to the public for spectating or bring your best ORV to join the competition and race to the top! The raceway is conveniently located off Snowmobile Trail 8, making Saturdays the best day to come and experience the races and explore the trails in Gwinn and Marquette County.

Saturday Schedule: Day Races

8:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Gates open for Registration & for Pre-Registered Participants

10:00 AM: Spectator Gates Open

10:15 AM – 11:15 AM: Practice & warm-up runs

11:30 AM – 6:00 PM: Ice Races

January 31 & February 28: Night Races

11:00 AM: Registration Opens

4:00 PM: Youth Races

6:00 PM – Midnight: Adult Races

Whether you’re on the track or in the stands, the roar of engines, the spray of ice, and the fierce competition will have you coming back week after week. Invite your friends, family, and fellow racers for the coolest race event in town! Be sure to check the Michigan Ice Races website for updates and more details!

PWPL Presents: LEGO Club.
2026-02-06 16:00 - 17:00 | Peter White Public Library, 217 N Front Street, Marquette, MI, 49855
Fridays February (6, 20, 27), 2026.
4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Peter White Public Library Great Room.
Meet other LEGO enthusiasts and build LEGO projects with the library’s LEGO blocks. Family friendly, children under the age of 8 must be accompanied by an adult. No admission charge. For more information and to check the status of the program, call 906-226-4323 or visit pwpl.info.

Polar Plunge! Sponsored by Sigma Phi Epsilon
2026-02-06 12:00 - 15:00 | Houghton Waterfront Pier, Houghton, Michigan, 49931
Philanthropy for Sigma Phi Epsilon. On Friday, February 6th, from 12pm – 3pm at the East Houghton Waterfront Park. We will be hosting our annual Polar Plunge fundraiser, with all proceeds benefiting Little Brothers Friends of the Elderly.
Donations allow participants to choose a brother to jump into the cold water, $20 for a random brother or $25 for a specific brother and $20 if you wish to jump yourself. .
Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need additional information at 248-701-0001. Thank you for your time and support.

PWPL Presents: Cultivating Care, Compassion, and Connection
2026-02-06 12:00 - 13:00 | Peter White Public Library, 217 N Front Street, Marquette, MI, 49855
Fridays, February (6, 13, 20, 27) 2026.
Noon – 1:00 p.m.
Peter White Public Library, Heritage Room.
In partnership with several area organizations, this hour-long event offers a safe space to pause, reflect, and build meaningful connections with others who are committed to cultivating kindness in our world. Each week, a different organization takes the lead, with experienced educators and leaders facilitating. This rotating format ensures diverse perspectives and practices while maintaining a shared commitment to the Charter for Compassion and the Circle of Trust principles. For more information and to check on the status of the program, call 906-226-4303 or visit pwpl.info.

Heikki Lunta
2026-02-06 00:00 - 2026-02-08 23:59 | MI
The Negaunee Downtown Devolvement Authority is excited to announce the return of Heikki Lunta! We are pleased to announce that we will be co-hosting part of our event with the Meijer State Games. The festival begins Friday night, February 6 and runs until Sunday, February 8, 2026.
The weekend will kick-off with Meijer State Games opening ceremony. This will be promptly followed by the Irontown Rail Jam Ski and Snowboard Competition in Downtown Negaunee, Friday evening.
Saturday includes the Teal Lake Ice Fishing Tournament, activities at both the UP-Luge Club and the Ishpeming Ski Club, Family Sledding and Gourmet Smores Bar, Snow Shoe Tours, miniature horse rides, live music, fireworks and more! Sunday tops off the weekend with the Freeze Yer Fanny Snowcross Bike Race, a pasty eating contest and other events.

To learn more about Heikki Lunta 2026, please visit negauneedda.com or visit us on Facebook.

Questions concerning this release may be directed to dda@cityofnegaunee.com.

Ice Mass 2026 in the Our Lady of the Snows Ice Chapel
2026-02-06 00:00 - 2026-02-07 23:59 | Houghton, Houghton
St. Albert the Great University Parish, serving students, faculty and staff of Michigan Technological University and Gogebic (“Go-Gee-Bick”) Community College, will host the annual Masses in the Our Lady of the Snows Ice Chapel during MTU’s famed Winter Carnival. The Roman Catholic Mass is celebrated in a chapel hand-built from ice and snow by MTU students and community members. The Ice Mass has gained international attention; it is a unique expression of Catholic faith in the deep snow country of the Keweenaw with over 800 in attendance in 2025.

There are three Masses: 5:30 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. EST on Friday, Feb. 6, as well as at 10:00 a.m. EST on Saturday, Feb. 7. The Masses at 5:30 pm EST and 10:00 pm EST on Friday Feb. 7 will be live-streamed on Facebook (and embedded on our website, mtucatholic.org/icemass).

Participants may register online for the link to the Live Stream: mtucatholic.org/icemass

The 2026 Live Stream Event Links:
5:30 PM: https://www.facebook.com/share/1aBNfvaCtd/
10:00 PM: https://www.facebook.com/share/14TdJFWA97W/

Past 2025 Live-Stream Videos:
5:30pm: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i3bWU86JEz0
10:00pm: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3VnqTJVtUWs

MTU Students Transform Ice, Snow into Chapel

Building a chapel out of ice and snow originally came to the attention of St. Albert the Great University Parish at the suggestion of a parent. Seeing this to be a ‘fun idea’ during Michigan Tech’s famed Winter Carnival, a small group of students at St. Al’s decided to give it a go back in 2016 alongside their pastor Fr. Ben Hasse. They were quickly surprised by how the word spread and how excited people, Catholics and non-Catholics alike, were to come to such an event leading to international coverage in 2021. Eleven years later, building the Our Lady of the Snows Ice Chapel is a well-known annual tradition for the students, locals, and people from all over the world.

The ice chapel is built each year by college students and community members in the Keweenaw peninsula town of Houghton, Michigan, USA. Over the course of a month, people can be found outside shoveling, bucketing, stomping, and carving from a mountain of snow. Through their efforts, and plywood forms held together by 2x4s, the ice chapel is brought to life. More and more students get involved each year, and they bring with them their creativity to further add to the beauty of the chapel. Examples include stained ice panes, a raised pulpit, a Marian grotto, and arched side aisles. Another unique feature is the acquisition of an ice slab pulled up by hand from a nearby bay to use as the chapel’s altar.

The priests at St. Al’s will celebrate three planned Ice Masses in the Our Lady of the Snows Ice Chapel: 5:30 p.m., 10:00 p.m. EST on Friday, Feb. 6, and 10:00 a.m. EST on Saturday, Feb. 7. The first two Masses will be livestreamed. You may visit mtucatholic.org/icemass to register for the link. You do not need to register if you will attend in-person.

St. Albert the Great University Parish is made up of about 50 year-round parishioners and over 1,000 registered student members. The experience of building this unique structure brings about and strengthens friendships. When asked how much it costs to build an Ice Chapel, Fr. Hasse simply responds “about a thousand dollars’ worth of pizza,” which fuels the volunteers. St. Al’s parish is overjoyed to bring to life a creation that glorifies God and brings the community together through the Mass.

To learn more about the Ice Mass or St. Albert the Great University Parish, visit mtucatholic.org/icemass. To learn more about Michigan Tech’s Winter Carnival, visit mtu.edu/carnival/2026. To learn more about St. Albert the Great University Parish, visit mtucatholic.org

Ice Mass 2026 in the Our Lady of the Snows Ice Chapel
2026-02-06 00:00 - 2026-02-07 23:59 | St. Albert the Great University Parish, 411 MacInnes Drive, Houghton, Michgian, 49931
St. Albert the Great University Parish, serving students, faculty and staff of Michigan Technological University and Gogebic (“Go-Gee-Bick”) Community College, will host the annual Masses in the Our Lady of the Snows Ice Chapel during MTU’s famed Winter Carnival. The Roman Catholic Mass is celebrated in a chapel hand-built from ice and snow by MTU students and community members. The Ice Mass has gained international attention; it is a unique expression of Catholic faith in the deep snow country of the Keweenaw with over 800 in attendance in 2025.
There are three Masses: 5:30 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. EST on Friday, Feb. 6, as well as at 10:00 a.m. EST on Saturday, Feb. 7. The Masses at 5:30 pm EST and 10:00 pm EST on Friday Feb. 7 will be live-streamed on Facebook (and embedded on our website, mtucatholic.org/icemass).

Participants may register online for the link to the Live Stream:
mtucatholic.org/icemass
The 2026 Live Stream Event Links:
5:30 PM: https://www.facebook.com/share/1aBNfvaCtd/
10:00 PM: https://www.facebook.com/share/14TdJFWA97W/
Past 2025 Live-Stream Videos:
5:30pm: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i3bWU86JEz0
10:00pm: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3VnqTJVtUWs
Story for Media Use:

Building a chapel out of ice and snow originally came to the attention of St. Albert the Great University Parish at the suggestion of a parent. Seeing this to be a ‘fun idea’ during Michigan Tech’s famed Winter Carnival, a small group of students at St. Al’s decided to give it a go back in 2016 alongside their pastor Fr. Ben Hasse. They were quickly surprised by how the word spread and how excited people, Catholics and non-Catholics alike, were to come to such an event leading to international coverage in 2021. Eleven years later, building the Our Lady of the Snows Ice Chapel is a well-known annual tradition for the students, locals, and people from all over the world.
The ice chapel is built each year by college students and community members in the Keweenaw peninsula town of Houghton, Michigan, USA. Over the course of a month, people can be found outside shoveling, bucketing, stomping, and carving from a mountain of snow. Through their efforts, and plywood forms held together by 2x4s, the ice chapel is brought to life. More andmore students get involved each year, and they bring with them their creativity to further add to
the beauty of the chapel. Examples include stained ice panes, a raised pulpit, a Marian grotto,and arched side aisles. Another unique feature is the acquisition of an ice slab pulled up by hand from a nearby bay to use as the chapel’s altar.
The priests at St. Al’s will celebrate three planned Ice Masses in the Our Lady of the Snows Ice Chapel: 5:30 p.m., 10:00 p.m. EST on Friday, Feb. 6, and 10:00 a.m. EST on Saturday, Feb. 7. The first two Masses will be livestreamed. You may visit mtucatholic.org/icemass to register for the link. You do not need to register if you will attend in-person.
St. Albert the Great University Parish is made up of about 50 year-round parishioners and over 1,000 registered student members. The experience of building this unique structure brings about and strengthens friendships. When asked how much it costs to build an Ice Chapel, Fr. Hasse simply responds “about a thousand dollars’ worth of pizza,” which fuels the volunteers. St. Al’s parish is overjoyed to bring to life a creation that glorifies God and brings the community
together through the Mass.
To learn more about the Ice Mass or St. Albert the Great University Parish, visit mtucatholic.org/icemass. To learn more about Michigan Tech’s Winter Carnival, visit mtu.edu/carnival/2026. To learn more about St. Albert the Great University Parish, visit mtucatholic.org

Black History Month Presentation at NMU
2026-02-05 19:00 | Jamrich Hall, NMU Campus, Jamrich Hall 1100, Marquette, Michigan
Northern Michigan University’s Black Student Union will host a “Why Black History Month?” presentation by Political Science Professor Carter Wilson at 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 5, in Jamrich 1319. Drawing from the works of a long list of scholars-from WEB DuBois and Toni Morrison to Carter G. Woodson and Basil Davidson-Wilson will demonstrate that neither world or American history can be understood without an understanding of the roles and contributions of Africans and African Americans.
Wilson was the 2024 recipient of the Stephen Young & Tricia Kinley Distinguished Faculty Award, NMU’s top honor for significant professional contributions to teaching, scholarship and service. His interests include public policy, Civil Rights policy, economic policy and public administration.
This Black History Month presentation is free and open to the public.

Carter Wilson
