Must-Attend Winter Events in Marquette

As you probably already know, in the U.P., we don't just face winter—we embrace it. This is why so many of our favorite annual events take place from December through February. From holiday festivities to extreme outdoor activities, find your new wintertime tradition in Marquette, MI.

DECEMBER

Holiday Lasers on the Ore Dock

Every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, December 1 - December 28 + NYE!

We're lighting up the Ore Dock for the holidays AGAIN!

Back by popular demand, Holiday Lasers on the Ore Dock will return for its fourth edition this November and December. Scheduled for every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evening beginning on Thanksgiving and running through December 28, the light display will transform the Ore Dock with the colors of the season. Plus, there will be an additional show on NYE!

Yule Market

December 13-14

Shop like a local this holiday season at the Yule Market brought to us by the Down Marquette Farmers Market! Find products from local farmers, growers, food producers, and artisans to make the perfect holiday gifts. From 3-9 PM at the Marquette Commons.

NYE Ball Drop

December 31

Make this New Year’s Eve a night to remember—ring in the new year with locals and visitors alike at the NYE Ball Drop in Marquette.

Commemorate the start of 2025 with a live countdown, music, laser lights, and dancing from 11 PM to 1 AM on Washington Street in the heart of downtown Marquette. 

JANUARY

Upper Michigan Ice Races

Every Saturday starting January 4 - March 8

Hosted by the Upper Michigan Ice Racing Association, the Upper Michigan Ice Races take place every Saturday from January to March at Forsyth Township Ball Park in Gwinn, MI. Cheer on the racers as they complete laps on an icy loop on rigged motorcycles and quads while competing for the best times.

Annual Ishpeming Ski Jumping Tournament

January 17-19

See skiers soar like never before at the 138th Annual Ishpeming Ski Jumping Tournament. Local and international skiers meet in Negaunee at the Suicide Ski Bowl to compete for the greatest distance.

Watch in awe as they launch off a 90-meter ski jump displaying their courage and technique while tailgating around some of the biggest bonfires you’ve probably ever seen. 

Noquemanon Ski Marathon

January 24-25

The Noquemanon Ski Marathon is not only the Midwest’s premier cross-country ski event but also one of the largest point-to-point ski marathons in the country.

Whether you sign up for the 12k or 50k, you’re in for a journey that’s as scenic as it is epic, skiing some of the freshest and finest trails in the Upper Peninsula.

FEBRUARY

Heikki Lunta

February 7-9

Celebrate all things SISU and snow at the Heikki Lunta festival in historic downtown Negaunee.

Heikki Lunta returns this winter with the exhilarating "Irontown Rail Jam" and more special annual classics! Whether you spectate or participate, the ski and snowboard competition kicks off Friday evening on Rail Street.

Duck into local restaurants and pubs to fuel up and warm up between the weekend’s events. 

Meijer Winter State Games

February 7-9

The Meijer State Games of Michigan is returning to the Upper Peninsula with the Marquette Winter Games! The 2025 Games include a variety of sports in multiple venues across the Marquette area. 

UP200

February 14-17

Cheer on mushers and their packs at one of the most anticipated events of the year. The UP200 sled dog race is among the top 12-dog mid-distance races in the Midwest, as well as an Iditarod qualifier.

The excitement begins at the starting line, Friday (2/14) on Washington Street in downtown Marquette, as the teams embark on their snowy 230-mile journey to Grand Marais and back. Then Sunday morning, show your support as the teams return to cross the finish line in Mattson Lower Harbor Park.

Honey Bear Classic

February 15

Join us for the 36th Annual Honey Bear Classic, a beloved tradition that celebrates the stunning winter beauty of the Big Bay Pathway! This family-friendly fundraiser invites participants of all ages and skill levels to experience the magic of the “Honey Bear” loop and other scenic trails. Whether you’re gliding along on skis or trekking by snowshoe, it’s the perfect way to enjoy the outdoors while supporting a cherished community pathway.