Winter has arrived in the Mitten State and we certainly love our seasonal sports and activities. While many of us have tried our hand at sledding, skiing, and ice skating, there is an exciting event that you might not have experienced yet. Tip Up Town USA is a winter festival hosted in Houghton Lake, Michigan, and you need to add this snowy carnival to your bucket list. While Tip Up Town USA might not have the longevity of another famous winter event (Michigan Technological University’s Winter Carnival), as far as festivals during winter go, this is still one of the longest-running winter festivals in Michigan.

Tip Up Town USA is one of the largest and oldest winter festivals in Michigan that dates back to 1951.
Winter Festival Houghton Lake Michigan
Don...The UpNorth Memories Guy... Harrison / Flickr
Ice fishing was the main event in the '50s and the tradition still carries on today with a modern-day ice fishing competition. But there are plenty of events held throughout the month of January and there’s something for everyone.
Don...The UpNorth Memories Guy... Harrison / Flickr
Thousands gather for this event and free parking is at the local high school with transportation provided to the festival. You can purchase tickets at many local businesses or at the Chamber of Commerce. To kick off Tip Up Town USA there is a 5K fun run/walk and a parade throughout the town.
Joe Ross / Flickr

Related Stories

The Michigan Resort Where You Can Snow Tube and Go On A Sleigh Ride This Winter

The Michigan Resort Where You Can Snow Tube and Go On A Sleigh Ride This Winter

 The Winter Carnival At Michigan Tech Turns 101 This Year And We’re So Excited To Celebrate

The Winter Carnival At Michigan Tech Turns 101 This Year And We’re So Excited To Celebrate

 Hiking Through The Lantern Lit Porcupine Mountains Is A Magical Michigan Adventure That Will Light Up Your Soul

Hiking Through The Lantern Lit Porcupine Mountains Is A Magical Michigan Adventure That Will Light Up Your Soul
Children will love the carnival rides, face painting, live magician, pony rides, and petting zoo at the festival. Kids under five years old get in for free!
Joe Ross / Flickr
Adults will love the 21 and older beverage tent, beard contest, snowmobile drag races, and live music. Make sure to lace up your snow boots and wear your winter gear because this festival is all about embracing our cold Michigan temperatures.
Joe Ross / Flickr
The icy waters of Houghton Lake await brave souls who dare to participate in the polar bear dip. Even if you’re not ready to plunge into a freezing cold inland lake yourself, you’ll love visiting this entertaining winter extravaganza.
Joe Ross / Flickr


Learn more about Tip Up Town USA in this video from Visit Houghton Lake:

As one of the longest-running winter festivals in Michigan, it is one we look forward to each year. For a full list of events visit the Tip Up Town website or the Tip Up Town Facebook page.

Have you been to this winter festival in Michigan before? Have you ever gone to Houghton Lake for this extraordinary event? Let us know about your experience in the comments!

While you’re in a wintery mood, read about what real life looks like inside the snowiest town in Michigan. Before your trip make sure you stock up on these cold weather essentials.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Explore Michigan

Featured Addresses
Houghton Lake Chamber-Commerce, 1625 W Houghton Lake Dr, Houghton Lake, MI 48629, USA