Photo provided by Visit Keweenaw. A crowd gathers on the Houghton waterfront on New Years Eve 2024. There will be two Chook drops this Dec. 31, one family friendly and the other designed for an older crowd.

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 Houghton special,” said Visit Keweenaw Executive Director Brad Barnett. “It’s about our cozy community, creativity and finding warmth together on one of the coldest nights of the year.”

Family Chook Drop — 5:30-6 p.m.

Start the evening early with activities perfect for all ages! There will be free winter-themed bookmark making for kids and baked goods for sale by Nikki Makes. Bundle up and enjoy music, laughter and a family-friendly Chook Drop at 6 p.m.

Late-Night Chook Drop — 9:30-10 p.m.

As the night settles in, the music turns up and the social district comes alive. Visitors can grab a drink, dance by the firelight and count down to the Late-Night Chook Drop overlooking the Portage Canal. Enjoy the glow of the Portage Lake Lift Bridge and celebrate the last 365 days.