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Michigan Technological University is located on Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. They are on the receiving end of large amounts of snow each winter. In 1922, students decided to celebrate their winter wonderland. Winter Carnival started as a one night circus style performance put on by students.
Winter Carnival is now a multi-day affair and has become one the the largest annual winter festivals in America. Each year, it is organized by Blue Key National Honor Society at Michigan Tech. It will be happening on February 4 through 7, 2026. And admission is free! Nobody celebrates winter like the Husky Nation!
This year’s theme is “Through Ice and Snow To Space We Go.”
The Winter Carnival draws thousands of visitors to the campus. The fun begins on All Nighter Wednesday when the ice statues are completed and judged. It wraps up on Saturday night with fireworks.
You’ll see huge, elaborate snow sculptures throughout the Michigan Tech campus and surrounding community. Students will be participating in broomball, comedy skits, sleigh rides, outdoor games, a queen’s coronation and lots of frosty fun!
One thing is certain – Houghton, Michigan in February will be cold. It is recommended that you dress in layers. You’re advised to wear
- Snow pants for men
- Snow pants for women
- Snow pants for children
- Water-resistant jackets for men
- Water-resistant jackets for women
- Water-resistant coats for children
- Hats
- Scarves
- Gloves
- Water-resistant boots for men
- Water resistant boots for women
- Water-resistant boots for children
If you’d like to visit Houghton for the Winter Carnival, you can find the best prices for hotels here.
Houghton, Michigan is within 174 miles of Marquette, Duluth, Sturgeon Bay, Land O Lakes, Wausau, Superior and Thunder Bay.