Events

Thursday, February 12, 2026,  6:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m.  Peter White Public Library Heritage Room. Adults, Seniors, Family Friendly. Join local poets, writers, and poetry enthusiasts for an evening of poetry. Starting at 6:30 p.m., participants gather to workshop their current work, followed by an Open Mic at 7:15 p.m. New and experienced poets are welcome for either or both events. No admission charge. For more information, contact Marty at 226-4322, machatz@pwpl.info, or visit pwpl.info.  

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

Northern Michigan University will celebrate the completed renovation of Harden Hall with a rededication ceremony at 10:30 a.m. Friday, Feb. 13, in the Olson Library Atrium. The event will include refreshments, open house activities and facility tours from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.  Harden Hall’s renovation refreshes Lydia M. Olson Library’s blend of study space, services, technology and resources, with an emphasis on student learning and belonging. Locating together the Honors Program, SISU Institute, SHINE (Sustainability Hub for Innovation and Environment), Beaumier U.P. Heritage Center and NMU Archives, along with a new Learning Commons for the university’s tutoring services, enhances

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

Friday, February 13, 2026.  12:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m.  Peter White Public Library Community Room. Adults, Seniors. In honor of Valentine’s Day, PWPL screens this powerful documentary about Reverend Frank Schaefer’s trial by the United Methodist Church for officiating his son’s samesex wedding. The film is a testament to the enduring power of love. Not Rated. No admission charge. For more information, contact Marty at 226-4322, machatz@pwpl.info, or visit pwpl.info.  

Friday, February 13, 2026.  12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.  Peter White Public Library Youth Services Room. Kids of all ages are welcome to come and hang out at the library during this MAPS halfday! Come read, check out materials, play and drop-in for some special half-day activities! Celebrate Valentine’s Day with Love LEGO building and magnets in the Great Room, and a Valentine’s Craft-A-Palooza in the Makerspace. 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

Northern Michigan University will host two free public activities during the UP 200 Powered by NMU sled dog race on Friday, Feb. 13. A warm-up party at the Trenary Toast Café, attended by new NMU President Chris Olsen and his wife, Jennifer, is scheduled from 6-8 p.m. Complimentary coffee, hot chocolate and cinnamon rolls will be available.  NMU will also host a heated hospitality tent for the general public from 6-8:30 p.m. near the starting gate on Washington Street by the old City Hall. The tent will offer free hot chocolate and cookies and provide a warm, family-friendly space for

UP200 & Midnight Run Friday, February 13, 6:30 pm