Breaking News
Features

In Praise of the Pasty

Annual Fest 2026 is here

By Press release 2 min read
Photo provided by Visit Keweenaw Normally one would not think dressing up as vegetables would be considered festive, but at Pasty Fest, potatoes, rutabagas and carrots are celebrated as ingredients in the UP's signature dish.

CALUMET -- Fresh-baked pasties, medieval knights, classic cars and one of the Upper Peninsula’s most beloved eating contests are all on the menu as Pasty Fest returns to downtown Calumet this weekend.

A celebration of the Copper Country’s mining heritage and one of Michigan’s most iconic foods, Pasty Fest transforms downtown Fifth Street into a lively destination packed with local vendors, family activities, live entertainment and plenty of opportunities to experience the culture that made the Keweenaw famous.

Don't miss opening ceremonies at noon Saturday with medieval actors and the Michigan Tech Pep Band, plus the Calumet-Laurium-Keweenaw High School Marching Band!

Throughout the day, visitors can browse vendors lining Fifth Street, admire a classic car show and step back in time with the Hancock SCA Club’s medieval encampment featuring demonstrations and interactive experiences. Kids can join in the fun during the Hobby Horse Steeple Chase, while festivalgoers of all ages can enjoy shopping, food and entertainment throughout downtown.

The day’s signature events begin at 1 p.m. with the crowd-favorite Pasty Pull Truck Pull, where teams compete to pull a full-size truck down Fifth Street. Then, at 3:45 p.m., the legendary Pasty Eating Contest returns as competitors race to finish a traditional Upper Peninsula pasty in front of cheering spectators.

“Pasty Fest is one of the Keweenaw’s signature summer traditions because it brings together everything people love about this place--our history, our communities and, of course, our pasties,” said Brad Barnett, executive director of Visit Keweenaw. “Whether you’re a lifelong Yooper or visiting for the first time, it’s an authentic Upper Peninsula experience that showcases the welcoming spirit and unique culture of the Copper Country.”

Admission is free. Visitors are encouraged to spend the weekend exploring Calumet’s historic downtown, local shops, museums and restaurants while enjoying one of the Keweenaw’s signature summer traditions.

For a full schedule of events, registration information and festival details, visit the Pasty Fest website uppastyfest.com

Starting at /week.