While summer may feel fleeting in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, autumn in the Keweenaw Peninsula offers something special. The fiery transformation of leaves each fall draws visitors and residents alike to hiking trails and downtown streets, and this year’s Canal Colors Festival promises three days of celebration running Oct. 1-3.
Hancock’s Small Craft and Ilo Creative will help the festival kick off the three days on October 1st with a sip and paint event along the Portage Canal.
The festival will showcase the region’s vibrant fall colors through events, competitions and activities designed for all ages. “The community will return to Houghton High School for a big Plaidurday photo,” organizers said. In 2023, the inaugural Copper Country Plaidurday photo gathered 1,745 people on the football field.
The festival opens Friday night with Brew Street, transforming Lakeshore Drive behind Keweenaw Brewing Company into a block party. Live music begins at 5 p.m. with Beautiful Problem, followed by Chad Brogan and the Collective. The evening will feature lumberjack competitions, part fashion show and part singles mixer, plus food trucks, yard games and social district beverages from venues like The Den and Beviamo. All Brew Street proceeds benefit the Calumet and Hecla Heritage Center in Houghton.
Saturday’s waterfront events pack the Portage Canal pier with activity. Circle UP’s Color Run will splash bright hues across the fiery backdrop of the canal during the annual race and fundraiser. This year adds a new 100-yard sprint to the traditional race. The Color Run raises funds for Circle UP’s professional development programming and events throughout the year.
Fall Fest returns with free tractor rides around town and introduces the Otter River Sled Dog Training Center and CopperDog for a meet-and-greet with the furry athletes. An afternoon pie-eating contest, sponsored by Range Bank, rounds out the day’s festivities.
Visit Keweenaw and the City of Houghton encourage residents and visitors to experience the Copper Country’s best season. Learn more about the Canal Colors Festival and all events at the official website.
