HOUGHTON — The Upper Peninsula’s quirkiest New Year’s Eve tradition is back! Visit Keweenaw and the City of Houghton invite locals and visitors alike to bundle up and head to the downtown Houghton Waterfront Pier for the annual Houghton Chook Drop. This a one-of-a-kind celebration is designed to welcome in 2026 with firelight, music and community cheer.

Launched in 2023, the Chook Drop has quicky become a Keweenaw Favorite. According to a press release from Visit Keweenaw, the word chook is local slang for a warm winter hat or beanie – an essential item for any Upper Peninsula winter night. This family-friendly and festive event brings people together for two evening countdowns: one family-friendly event and the other designed for a late-night crowd.

“This event captures what makes Hough

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