Provided Photo Participants, dressed as pasty ingredients, march in the 2023 Pasty Fest Parade in Calumet.

CALUMET — The Kingdom of Calumet rises once more as Pasty Fest returns Aug. 15-17, transforming downtown Calumet into a deliciously quirky blend of medieval mayhem and Upper Peninsula charm.

Now in its 21st year, this annual celebration of the iconic Cornish pasty brings together locals, visitors and curious travelers for a weekend of offbeat fun and hearty fare. Things kick off the night of Aug. 15 with the Pasty Song Competition at Eva’s Hideaway, where minstrels and modern troubadours alike will belt out ballads and bops in honor of Michigan’s favorite meat pie.

On Saturday, Aug. 16, downtown Calumet’s 5th Street will become a full-blown medieval street fair–complete with vendors, jousting vibes, and an All-Ages Medieval Fighting Arena that lets everyone channel their inner knight. And of course, no Pasty Fest would be complete without the beloved Pasty Eating Contest–a high-stakes, high-carb showdown for culinary glory.

The Hancock – Houghton Regional Rattan Armored Combat group will put on medieval demonstrations like blacksmithing and sword fights. Whether you come for the food, the music, or the foam sword fights, one thing is certain: Pasty Fest 2025 is anything but ordinary.

Visit Keweenaw will host a Pasty Pull at 1 p.m. Aug 16, letting the public compete to pull an oversized vehicle down the street for a cash prize. The Pasty Eating Competition is another staple, which takes place at 3:30 p.m. this year.