Here’s what’s happening in Michigan this weekend (Jan. 9-11)

Highlights include the largest free winter festival in the US, skiing and dog sledding in the UP, and more.

January 9, 2026

The Tahquamenon Country Sled Dog Race takes place this weekend in the Upper Peninsula. (Unsplash)

We’ve got fewer events than usual on this week’s list (probably since everyone is still getting into the flow of the new year after the holidays). But the events we’ve included are really special.

Highlights include the largest free winter festival in the US, skiing and dog sledding in the UP, a rare opportunity to trek through Mackinac Island in the wintertime, and more.

As always, I’d love to hear your suggestions! If you know of an upcoming event you want me to highlight, send me a note here (please send suggestions at least one week before the event).

West Michigan

1. World of Winter Opening Weekend

Jan. 9 – March 1

Downtown Grand Rapids

2. Grand Rapids Bridal Show

Jan. 9 – 10

DeVos Place (303 Monroe Ave. NW, Grand Rapids)

3. Grand Rapids Remodeling & New Home Show

Jan. 9 – 11

DeVos Place (303 Monroe Ave. NW, Grand Rapids)

4. Winter Wheat Music Festival

Saturday, Jan. 10, 2-11 p.m.

The Intersection (133 Cesar E. Chavez Ave. SW, Grand Rapids)

5. Grand Mere State Park Volunteer Stewardship Workday

Saturday, Jan. 10, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

7337 Thornton Drive, Stevensville

Northern Michigan/UP

6. Tahquamenon Country Sled Dog Race

Jan. 10-11

Muskallonge State Park (29881 County Road 407, Newberry)

7. SISU Ski Fest

Saturday, Jan. 10

213 S Marquette St., Ironwood

8. Arctic BLAST Winterfest

Saturday, Jan. 10, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Northern Power Race Park (2201 Valley Road, Mancelona)

9. Frostbite Trail Opener

Saturday, Jan. 10, 12-6 p.m.

Antrim and Charlevoix Counties

10. Twilight Turtle Trek

Saturday, Jan. 10, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Mackinac Island State Park

Mid/South Michigan

11. Winterfest Brewery Collectibles Show

Saturday, Jan. 10, 8 a.m.-2 p.m.

990 Flint Street, Frankenmuth

Southeast Michigan/Thumb

12. Ultimate Fishing Show – Detroit

Jan. 8-11

Suburban Collection Showplace (46100 Grand River Ave., Novi)

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