Heikinpäivä

Created in 1999 by Copper Country Finnish-Americans, Heikinpaiva marks the unofficial midpoint of winter - the moment the Keweenaw needs a party most. A parade rolls down Quincy Street led by the Hankookin Heikki, a local chosen for their service to Finnish culture, who rides Big Louie, arguably the world's largest kick sled, in robes and crown with a copper scepter. The parade ends with everyone joining hands in a spiraling dance, then comes the wife-carrying contest through an obstacle course of traditional Keweenaw domestic life, kicksled races, a Tori market, and a Finnish contra-dance.

Dates

Late January

Town

Hancock, Michigan

Venue

Quincy Street & Finnish American Heritage Center, Hancock, MI 49930

Price

Free (some events ticketed)

Type

Heritage / Quirky