Winter Events Slated this Month Draw Thousands
/The shortest month of the year brings several of the most anticipated events in Alger County. While it can be tempting to remain cozy indoors in February, these attractions are worth bundling up and adventuring out for:
Michigan Ice Fest, Feb. 8-12
Ice climbers and spectators will congregate in Munising on Feb. 8-12 for the 31st annual Michigan Ice Fest. The event features classes, demos, presentations and, of course, ice climbing.
The climbing itself happens in the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore where gorgeous 20- to 50-foot “blue ice curtains” are found at several points along inland cliffs between Munising Falls and Sand Point Beach. Whether people have years of climbing experience or are just starting out, the festival is open to everyone.
Michigan Ice Fest is headquartered in the Alger Parks and Recreation building - or community center - in Munising where registration, the class meeting spot, gear demos, rentals and sales and a free shuttle pick up take place. Films, slideshows and presentations featuring world-class climbers and pro athletes are at the Mather Auditorium, with activities also happening at East Channel Brewing Company and Gallery Coffee Company.
For those that can’t attend the festival, Down Wind Sports in Munising offers guided ice climbing tours throughout the season, as well.
Info: www.michiganicefest.com
UP 200, Feb. 16-20
The UP 200, Midnight Run, and Jack Pine 30 sled dog festivities will take place Feb. 16-20 this year, with the mush bus, which will be narrated by historian Dan Truckey, taking place on Feb. 18.
“The Grand Marais checkpoint is the midpoint of the race and offers excellent viewing opportunities for spectators. The local Community Center is the checkpoint headquarters and visitors can have lunch, bid on items at a silent auction, and see the teams up close. Here the mushers rest, feed their teams, consult veterinarians as needed, and plan their strategy for the second half of the race,” according to the Upper Peninsula Sled Dog Association’s website.
The mush bus will depart from Marquette in the late morning. To purchase tickets, call Pat Torreano at 906-458-9997. Cost $40.00.
Info: www.up200.com
Trenary Outhouse Classic, Feb. 25
With this year’s slogan being “Get Buck Wild at the Turdieth Ever,” the Trenary Outhouse Classic will celebrate its 30th anniversary this year.
At the event, homemade outhouses are placed on skis and pushed by two-person teams down a snowy path along Trenary’s Main Street. Along with the races, various vendors are found along the street while businesses like the Trenary Tavern and Silver Dollar fill up with patrons.
All proceeds from the event go back to support the local community. Races begin at 2 p.m., with registration taking place at 1 p.m.
