Gazette File photo A Michigan Tech student paints the face of a child during 2024's Parade of Nations. This year's festival will be under a new format.

HOUGHTON — Michigan Technological University’s International Programs and Services invites the community to the Festival of Nations, a new take on the long-standing Parade of Nations tradition that has celebrated cultural diversity in the Keweenaw for more than three decades. The event will take place from noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday, September 19, 2026, in downtown Houghton.

According to a Michigan Tech press release, while many traditions will continue, this year introduces a new festival-style format designed to expand cultural exchange, family engagement, and community participation. The traditional parade has been replaced with an expanded multicultural festival stretching from the Dee Stadium to the Houghton Waterfront Pier near the Portage Lake District Library.

International cuisine remains a central feature of the celebration and will continue inside the Dee Stadium, where Michigan Tech student organizations will offer authentic dishes representing cultures from around the world.

New this year, the Houghton Waterfront Pier will host a family-focused festival area featuring international entertainment, community displays, local vendors, bounce houses, children’s activities, and complimentary goodie bags available on a first-come, first-served basis. The expanded layout aims to create a welcoming space for families while strengthening connections between international students and the greater Keweenaw community.

Attendees are encouraged to visit the Festival of Nations photo station. Guests who take a photo in traditional cultural attire, post it on social media, tag Festival of Nations, and use the hashtag #FestivalOfNations will be entered for a chance to win a $150 prize.

Festival of Nations will also host a donation booth benefiting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Donations collected during the event will be matched by organizers up to $500, allowing attendees to support a meaningful cause while celebrating global cultures.

Community members interested in participating are encouraged to get involved. Vendor opportunities remain available and volunteers are welcome. Those seeking additional information or involvement opportunities, contact festivalofnations@mtu.edu.

“Although we know change can be difficult, we are very excited about our new festival, geared toward families, children, and the community” said Machel Borsum, Chair of the Festival of Nations. “Festivals are one of the most joyful aspects of life, they bring people together, spark emotions, and create memories that last a lifetime. Please come out and support the festival, local charities, and of course, St. Jude’s.” Borsum adds, “The magic of a festival lives in every smile is creates.”

For more information, visit Michigan Tech’s Festival of Nations website or email festicalofnations@mtu.edu.