Photo provided by Visit Keweenaw One of the many campsites in the Hancock City Campground that is part of Hancock Lights the Night, open Thursdays - Saturdays through Jan. 3

HANCOCK — A warm glow shines from the Hancock Campground this holiday season. Cross the Portage Lake Lift Bridge into the cozy, snow-dusted City of Hancock, where a brand-new holiday tradition now brightens long winter nights — “Hancock Lights the Night.”

The community-driven project was partially funded by a Visit Keweenaw Destination Development Award, with additional donations from local partners helping make the more than $40,000 display possible. The Destination Development Fund is powered by room assessments collected through Visit Keweenaw’s lodging partners–meaning visitors themselves helped bring this new holiday attraction to life.

Holiday character blow-ups, strung lights, and tunnels of color captivate families of all ages. “Hancock Lights the Night” is open from 5:30-8 p.m.Thursdays through Saturdays from and runs through Jan. 3, 2026. Because of the holidays, the display will be closed on Dec. 25 and Jan. 1, and special added open dates include Dec. 21, 22, and 23. Guests are encouraged to check the events calendar before visiting for the most accurate schedule.

On Saturday, visitors will get the rare chance to walk through the park and enjoy Hancock’s holiday light show up close. Bundle up, stroll the displays, and share the season’s cheer with neighbors and friends. According to a press release from the City of Hancock, the special “Walking Night” will give children a chance to meet Santa at his workshop, where they can enjoy special treats. Visitors are asked to park their vehicle at the Hancock Beach Parking Lot and take the Holiday Transit Bus to the campground. Canned food and monetary donations will be accepted at the campground entrance each tour night for our local food pantries.

“Hancock Lights the Night brings fresh energy to the holiday season and gives visitors one more reason to explore the Keweenaw in winter,” said Visit Keweenaw Executive Director Brad Barnett. “It’s a great example of how local creativity and our Destination Development Fund can work together to create memorable experiences for both residents and travelers.”