Winter is here in the Great Lake State and many of us are curling up inside and wishing for summer to arrive. But while many of us are hibernating, students at Michigan Tech University are embracing the cold and building giant snow sculptures. This year, put on your puffiest coat and visit an iconic winter carnival in Houghton, Michigan.

For this snowy adventure, head up north to the city of Houghton, which averages 207 inches of snowfall every year.
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Houghton is the snowiest town in Michigan and is the birthplace of professional hockey. Michigan Tech University celebrates Houghton’s massive snowfall by hosting the Winter Carnival annually in February.
Michigan Technological University/Google
This year, the carnival is celebrating 101 years of winter festivities starting in 1922. Initially starting as a one-day event with circus-style acts, the carnival has been transformed into a long-running tradition.
Winter Carnival Houghton Michigan
Michigan Tech Winter Carnival/Facebook
In 1936 the first snow statues were constructed by university students along with school children with the winner earning a prize. In the 1940s, civil engineers won first place in their bridge statue, while the Tech Flying Club built a plane.
Michigan Tech Winter Carnival/Facebook

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Today, designs and building methods have been passed down over time and the statues have become more elaborate each year.
Michigan Tech Winter Carnival/Facebook
Students take their role in the winter carnival very seriously and stay up all night long to transform piles of snow into impressive snow statues and ice sculptures.
Michigan Tech Winter Carnival/Facebook
Houghton residents and out-of-towners ogle at the huge and intricately designed temporary art pieces.
Michigan Tech Winter Carnival/Facebook
Indoor and outdoor activities are also offered including broomball, snow volleyball, comedy skits, cross country skiing, and curling. Michigan Tech University’s Winter Carnival has become one of the biggest annual winter celebrations in the nation and you have to visit.
Michigan Tech Winter Carnival/Facebook

For a full list of events, visit the Michigan Tech University Winter Carnival website. Have you enjoyed Houghton’s winter festivities? Let us know about your experience! Before you head up north be sure to check out our list for What To Pack On A Winter Trip.

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