Michigan Technological University's Winter Carnival is an annual celebration that takes place every winter in Houghton, Michigan. It is a time to celebrate the large amounts of snowfall Michigan's Upper Peninsula receives each winter. Winter Carnival is characterized by snow statues, outdoor games, and many student activities.
Save the date: February 4–7, 2026
Organized by Blue Key National Honor Society since 1934, Winter Carnival started in 1922 and has grown to become one of the largest annual winter festivals in the nation. Featuring dozens of huge, intricate snow statues all around campus and the community, this event also brings together students to participate in broomball, comedy skits, sleigh rides, a queen coronation, and lots of winter fun.
Michigan Tech Huskies created a kingdom fit for Lancelot in a challenging snow statue competition during Winter Carnival 2025, working with the medieval theme “Dragons, Knights, and Legendary Sights.” Check out the winners in the month-long and all-night categories—with a round of applause for all participants!
Nobody celebrates winter like Husky Nation. One of the biggest annual winter festivals in the nation, the beloved Michigan Tech tradition draws thousands of visitors to Keweenaw. Winter Carnival fun begins with All-Nighter Wednesday, when statues are completed for judging, and wraps up Saturday night with fireworks.
