Ice sculptures are big this weekend in Michigan, with multiple competitions across the state.
Other highlights include a major snowmobile race in the UP, a women’s expo in our capital city, and a Lunar New Year celebration in Detroit.
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).
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35th State Senate District race candidates set (Michigan Advance): Democrat Chedrick Greene and Republican Jason Tunney secured their parties’ nominations in Tuesday’s special primary for Michigan’s 35th State Senate district, setting up a high-stakes May showdown that could shift the balance of power in Lansing. The seat, spanning Bay, Midland and Saginaw counties, will help determine whether Democrats can protect their slim Senate majority or Republicans can force a chamber split.
Proposed bill would tax internet-connected devices for minors (WWMT): A Michigan lawmaker wants to curb kids’ social media use by adding a 32% excise tax to internet-connected devices purchased for minors, with revenue directed to youth mental health and safety programs. Rep. Mark Tisdel (R-Rochester Hills) says higher prices could steer families away from smartphones and reduce harmful, addictive online use. But critics argue the tax would hit low-income families hardest and say the focus should be on regulating tech companies and social media algorithms instead.
Police looking for woman who donated human skull to Goodwill (WXYZ): Chelsea police are investigating after what appeared to be a human skull was discovered inside a donation at a local Goodwill, wrapped in a shirt. The item was turned over to the medical examiner for analysis, and authorities say there were no visible signs of damage as they work to determine its origin. Police want to speak with the woman who made the donation and are asking anyone with information to contact the department.
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Click the map to explore each location. (Google My Maps)
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1. 2026 Ice Fest
Feb. 6-8
Downtown St. Joseph
“Join us for the annual Ice Fest sponsored by Silver Beach Pizza to celebrate the winter season! It’s a weekend that brings frosty fun to downtown St. Joe. Enjoy Professional Ice Carving, Ice Wars, a Scavenger Hunt, Ice Interactives and more!”
2. Holland On Ice
Feb. 6-7
Downtown Holland
“During LG Energy Solution’s Holland on Ice, you can watch the nation’s best professional ice carvers live in action!”
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3. Michigan Tech Winter Carnival
Feb. 4-7
Michigan Technological University
“Winter Carnival started in 1922 and has grown into one of the biggest annual winter celebrations in the nation. Known for huge, intricate snow statues around campus, Carnival also brings Huskies together to compete in broomball, comedy skits, human ice bowling, and a royalty coronation.”
4. Perchville USA
Feb. 6-8
East Tawas
“An annual winter celebration in East Tawas, Michigan, Perchville is the perfect Up North weekend getaway. Fun for both families and the more adventurous!”
5. Heikki Lunta Winter Festival
Feb. 6-8
Negaunee
“The Heikki Lunta Winter Festival is inspired by the Heikki Lunta snow god folklore that originated in the Upper Peninsula. The festival is a celebration of winter, showcasing the amazing opportunities during the snowy season in Marquette County.”
6. Harbor Springs Ice Fest
Feb. 6-7
Downtown Harbor Springs
“Attractions will include an interactive ice park in Zorn Park with large sculptures that are perfect for photo ops and play, ice carving demonstrations, a scavenger hunt, and ice games. Come Downtown and take your family photos with your favorite sculptures.”
7. Da Yooper Winterfest
Saturday, Feb. 7
Downtown Menominee
“Downtown Menominee will be crowded with participants as the Twin Cities most colorful and exciting event kicks off at Victory Beach and continues at Murray’s Irish Pub and Grill. Two events are scheduled: Da Yooper Winterfest will include Da Yooper Plunge and Da Chill-y Contest, being held for the 16th year.”
8. I-500 Snowmobile Race
Saturday, Feb. 7, 9 a.m.-8 p.m.
984 W. 4th Ave., Sault Ste. Marie
“Gear up for an unparalleled thrill at the I-500 Snowmobile Race—where the most powerful snowmobiles in the world race at over 100 mph on a frozen ice track! Since 1969, this event has been the pinnacle of snowmobile racing, drawing enthusiasts worldwide to Sault Ste. Marie, MI, for the Soo I-500.”
9. 2026 Beer and Wine Fest
Saturday, Feb. 7, 7-10 p.m.
Treetops Resort (3962 Wilkinson Road, Gaylord)
“Whether you’re a connoisseur of fine wines and craft beers, or you simply enjoy a good drink, this event is made for you! Sample a variety of local wines and craft brews, and mingle with over 20 industry experts who craft these signature drinks.”
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10. Mid-Michigan Women’s Expo
Feb. 6-8
The Lansing Center (333 E. Michigan Ave., Lansing)
“Get ready to experience the ultimate weekend of shopping, style, health and fun! Whether you’re looking for the latest fashion advice, wellness tips, home decor inspiration, or just want to indulge in some retail therapy, the Lansing Center will be transformed into a shopping paradise with hundreds of exhibits to explore.”
11. FIERCE Girls in Sports Clinic
Saturday, Feb. 7, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
Don Johnson Fieldhouse (400 N. Pennsylvania Ave., Lansing)
“FIERCE Girls in Sports is a dynamic, empowering clinic designed to ignite confidence and connection in young female athletes. At the heart of our program is the belief that Females Ignite, Empower, Respect, Collaborate, and Engage through sport. This principle drives every part of our clinic, as we aim to build stronger relationships, self-esteem, and leadership skills in girls from 3rd to 6th grade. During the clinic, participants will rotate through 5 exciting stations, each featuring a non-traditional sport.”
12. 2026 Old Town Chocolate Walk
Saturday, Feb. 7, 12-7 p.m.
Old Town Lansing
“For over a decade, we’ve been crafting memories one chocolate at a time with the Old Town Chocolate Walk. You’ll travel the neighborhood and collect Chocolates at each location. And this isn’t just a walk; it’s a fundraiser for the Old Town Commercial Association (OTCA). Your support contributes to the continued revitalization of Lansing’s historic Old Town.”
13. Riverfront Saginaw Winter Brew Festival
Saturday, Feb. 7, 4-9 p.m.
SVRC Marketplace (203 S. Washington Ave., Saginaw)
“Come join us for a night that will showcase great local craft beer and delicious local eats!”
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14. Motor City Winter Dog Classic
Feb. 5-8
Vibe Credit Union Showplace (46100 Grand River Ave., Novi)
“Where 200+ AKC breeds can compete each day of our cluster!”
15. Port Huron Chilly Fest
Feb. 6-7
Downtown Port Huron
“Join us as we celebrate winter in the Blue Water Area! Visitors of all ages will enjoy outdoor activities, s’mores station, carriage rides, a chili crawl, and much more!”
16. Taiwan-Style Lunar New Year Celebration
Saturday, Feb. 7, 2-3:30 p.m.
Detroit Library Main (5201 Woodward Ave., Detroit)
“Come celebrate the Taiwanese Lunar New Year in Detroit! Experience the most authentic Taiwan-style Lunar New Year celebration! Win your own New Year gift and take home good luck!“
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Thanks for reading. This newsletter was written by Karel Vega and edited by Paula Solis.
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