Celebrate winter’s glory at these upcoming ski resort festivals. From a gourmet cross-country ski trip and a beer festival on the slopes to a frozen fish toss and snow shovel race, these events are pure Northern Michigan.

If ski hills aren’t your thing, check out these winter food and wine festivals.


Subaru Winterfest, Boyne Mountain Resort

Subaru Winterfest At Boyne Mountain
We’re not surprised to see Boyne Mountain included yet again on Subaru’s national tour of more than a dozen killer ski spots. Hardcore skiers and snowboarders can demo new gear. Or bring the family for a day of snow tubing, snowshoeing, horseback riding and outdoor swimming in the heated pools. VIP parking if you drive your Subaru. February 4.

Skiable Feast at Treetops Resort
A relative newcomer to Michigan’s lineup of winter festivals, this event celebrates its fourth season with a 6K cross-country ski trip through Treetops’ remote nature preserve north of the main resort. The only thing to interrupt the serene scene: Five gourmet food and beverage stations. February 11.

Slush Cup at Shanty Creek Resorts
“Slush” is definitely the operative word here, as there are no better terms to describe the surface of the icy, 60-foot pond that skiers and snowboarders will attempt to cross in their bids for end-of-winter glory. If you’re not quite ready to take the (potential) plunge, play it safe at the frozen fish toss or snow shovel race. March 4.

Brew-Ski Festival
The list of breweries and craft beers just keeps growing at this annual late-winter party at Boyne Highlands ski resort near Harbor Springs. This year, come sample more than 300 brews from 80 different companies—including dozens from your home state—while taking in live music and food fresh off the outdoor grill. March 11.

Mardi Gras at Nub’s Nob
Don’t let the name fool you—this celebration favors family-friendly fun over Mardi Gras’ traditional hedonism. The all-day event features kids ski races, a costume contest and the sounds of the Petoskey Steel Drum Band. And don’t miss the Soaker Cup—a downhill ski run where the brave try to coast across an unfrozen section of Lake Nub’s. Wetsuits permitted. March 18.

Spring Carnival at Caberfae Peaks
After a long winter, we won’t fault this Cadillac resort for celebrating spring’s official entrance a few days early. Grab a bite at the Snow Bar & Grill while taking in some live music. Or see how your skills stack up in the Big Air ski contest. March 18.


More Northern Michigan Winter Fun: 

Photo(s) by Boyne Highlands Resort