HOUGHTON, MI – A “chook” is an essential cold-weather clothing item for those who live in Michigan’s northern reaches.

In the Keweenaw Peninsula, the word “chook” is local slang for a warm winter hat or beanie.

That’s why Michigan’s northernmost peninsula chooses to celebrate New Year’s Eve with a Chook Drop. The modern tradition began in 2023 and has “quickly become a Keweenaw favorite,” according to Visit Keweenaw.

The annual event is scheduled for New Year’s Eve at the Houghton Waterfront Pier. Locals and visitors invited to countdown to 2026 as the lit-up, red and white chook drops.

Two drops are scheduled to accommodate the entire family:

Family Chook Drop

From 5:30-6 p.m., there will be music, baked goods for sale, and family activities, including bookmark making. The chook dro

See Full Page