Fellow Michigander,

We might still be in the throes of winter, but at least things are warming up, relatively speaking. And this weekend, there are plenty of ways to embrace the chill.

Our picks include an auto show in Grand Rapids, festivals highlighting Michigan’s best beer and wine, and a major winter event in Frankenmuth. And starting this week, we’re adding short descriptions to each event so you can get a better sense of what’s in store.

It’s always a good idea to double-check the official event pages for cancellations or postponements before heading out.

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

Karel Vega

Newsletter Editor, The ’Gander

Michigan reverses resident losses for first time in decades (Bridge Michigan): For the first time in at least 35 years, Michigan gained more residents from other states than it lost, with a net gain of about 1,800 people, according to Census estimates. Overall, the state added roughly 28,000 residents between July 2024 and July 2025, bringing the population to about 10.13 million, with most growth driven by international migration.

Michigan High School Athletic Association approves NIL expansion for players (WOOD-TV): Michigan high school athletes can now profit from name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals after the MHSAA approved an immediate rule change allowing personal branding activities like endorsements, appearances, and merchandise, while banning involvement from schools, boosters, or collectives. The association says the policy protects competitive balance by limiting deals to individual athletes and prohibiting the use of school logos, facilities, or staff in arranging or promoting NIL activities.

UP schools face snow day limit (WLUC): School districts in the Upper Peninsula are running up against their allotted snow days, with some already using their six and preparing to request up to three more as extreme cold and road conditions make travel unsafe. Superintendents say safety comes first, but missed days may be made up by adding minutes or extra days later to meet the state’s 180-day requirement.

Michigan events this weekend

Click the map to explore each location. (Google My Maps)

West Michigan

1. Michigan International Auto Show

Jan. 29-Feb. 1

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

“Car manufacturers from around the world will bring their finest traveling displays with new vehicles—including sedans, vans, SUV’s, trucks, hybrids and sports cars.”

2. 2026 St. Joe Chili Tour

Friday, Jan 30, 5-8 p.m.

301 State St., St. Joseph

“Participating locations or ‘Chili Stops’ will play host as you have the opportunity to try their best recipes.”

3. Ice Breaker Festival

Jan. 30-Feb. 1

Downtown South Haven

“West Michigan’s predominant and growing winter festival is showcasing dazzling ice sculptures, Chili Cook-off, Cardboard Sled Race, Pub Slide, 360 Photo Booth, Outdoor Ice Skating, S’mores Roasting, Snowsuit Fashion Competition with our MC and the voice of Ice Breaker, Paul Layendecker, Frozen Fish Fling, and many more exciting activities throughout downtown South Haven.”

4. Downtown Kalamazoo Chili Cook-Off

Saturday, Jan. 31, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Downtown Kalamazoo

“Local chefs, businesses, and community groups showcase their unique chili recipes. Discover hidden gems, enjoy festive vibes, and vote for your favorites as you savor the best chili in town.”

Northern Michigan/UP

5. Pure Ludington Brrrewfest

Saturday, Jan. 31, 1-6 p.m.

Legacy Plaza (102 W. Ludington Ave., Ludington)

“Twenty breweries/wineries will offer patrons a taste of the best and most unique flavors of beers, wines, ciders, and meads from all around Michigan.”

6. Ice Wine Festival

Saturday, Jan. 31, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Chateau Chantal (15900 Rue de Vin, Traverse City)

“Known as the ‘Nectar of the Gods,’ ice wine is made from grapes frozen on the vine. Harvested during temperatures between 15 to 18 degrees F, the grapes are pressed while still frozen. In celebration of this remarkable wine, festival events will range from family-friendly snowman building and ice sculptures to outdoor fire pits with roasted treats.”

7. Hiawatha Heritage Dog Sled Race

Jan. 31-Feb. 1

Hiawatha Sportsman’s Club (N7269 Lake Blvd., Engadine)

“After our inaugural race in 2025, from mushers interviewed, they have never had such a wonderful race experience. From the picturesque surroundings, a superbly groomed “superhighway” course with its many twists and turns, no roads or railroad track to cross, it was both a safe and enjoyable experience. The food was phenomenal, the people truly welcoming, and fans cheering them on from multiple course sites was encouraging and exciting for mushers and dogs alike. We are planning to make 2026 an even more challenging and exciting opportunity for all so please join us.”

Mid/South Michigan

8. Zehnder’s Snowfest

Jan. 28- Feb. 1

730 S. Main St., Frankenmuth

“Zehnder’s Snowfest has been host to one of the top snow and ice sculpting events in North America for the past 34 years. Visitors have enjoyed larger-than-life snow sculptures and beautifully detailed ice carvings each year. In addition, Zehnder’s Snowfest will have entertainment for the entire family.”

9. Ice, Wine, Beer & Blues

Jan. 30-31

Downtown Marshall

“Featuring a Friday night beer and wine tasting in downtown Marshall, live ice sculpting, and a Saturday night concert by blues guitar master Albert Cummings, IWBB is a can’t-miss winter event!”

Southeast Michigan/Thumb

10. Ann Arbor Folk Fest

Jan. 30-31

Hill Auditorium (825 N. University Ave., Ann Arbor)

“The Ann Arbor Folk Festival is the largest annual fundraising effort for The Ark, Ann Arbor’s non-profit home for folk, roots, and acoustic music. Featuring a blend of renowned and up-and-coming performers, the program provides audience members with the opportunity to hear artists they know and love while discovering great new talent.”

11. Plymouth Ice Festival

Jan. 30-Feb. 1

Downtown Plymouth

“The Plymouth Ice Festival presented by Michigan First Credit Union is a world-class event in beautiful downtown Plymouth that is exciting and fun for the whole family. Sculptures are available for viewing 24 hours a day and will remain standing after the event—weather permitting.”

12. Michigan Card Expo

Saturday, Jan. 31, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Vibe Credit Union Showplace (46100 Grand River Ave., Novi)

“A premier card expo for collectors, hobbyists, and vendors of all ages!
Whether you’re hunting for rare pulls, building your PC, meeting dealers, or showcasing your own collection—this is the place to be.”

13. Winterfest at Pier Park

Saturday, Jan. 31, 12-4 p.m.

350 Lake Shore Road, Grosse Pointe Farms

“Mark your calendars and bundle up for our annual Winterfest celebration at Pier Park! This free family-friendly event is the perfect way to embrace the winter season with fun activities for all ages.”