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Finnish-American Travel Inspiration

Tervetuloa! Welcome to the Heart of Finnish Culture in the Copper Country

 

Explore the deep-rooted legacy of Finnish-Americans in the Keweenaw Peninsula, where copper mining history, cultural traditions, and the rugged beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula come together. Finnish immigrants left a lasting impact on the region—from architecture and food to outdoor recreation and the cherished sauna culture.

Whether you're tracing your Finnish ancestry, exploring Nordic traditions, or looking for authentic cultural experiences in Michigan, this guide will help you uncover the best of Finnish-American history, heritage, and hospitality in the Keweenaw. Dive into our curated resources, travel guides, and local recommendations to find your own piece of Finland in the Copper Country.

Hancock: The Cultural Heartbeat of Finnish America

2026 Finno-Ugric Capital of Culture

Hancock, Michigan isn’t just a gateway to the Keweenaw - it’s the epicenter of Finnish-American life in North America. Here, the legacy of Finnish immigration is honored and celebrated every day through education, architecture, and community events that keep traditions alive.

Home to the Finnish American Heritage Center and Archives (an arm of Finlandia Foundation National), the Finnish American Folk School, the Finnish American Reporter, and an ever-growing lineup of workshops, exhibits, and Finnish dance, Hancock is where culture is not just remembered - it’s lived. The city's deep cultural roots continue to grow through year-round programs, festivals like Heikinpäivä and Juhannus, and partnerships that stretch across the globe. 

Finnish-American

Cultural & Historical Resources

Keweenaw National Historical Park

  • 98 Fifth Street
  • 906-483-3176

This national park, in conjunction with 22 Heritage Sites, commemorates the heritage of copper mining on the Keweenaw Peninsula - its…

Old Victoria Museum

  • 25401 Victoria Dam Road
  • 906-886-2617

Four log cabins, restored at their original remote mining locations, give visitors a true feeling of the life faced back by copper miners…

Finn-spired Keweenaw Travel Guides

Local Annual Events

With Finnish Flair

Discover Copper Country history in a most cozy and unique way! Sauna Week grants exclusive access to historic Finnish-American homestead saunas and immersive sauna-themed events!

Hancock, Michigan is the home of a truly one-of-a-kind festival - Heikinpäivä! Created in 1999, this festival draws deeply from the culture and folklore that followed Finnish immigrants who came to America to work Keweenaw copper mines. This January celebration (part-festival…

Experience Finnish roots firsthand with a midsummer twist! Event sponsor The Finnish Long Drink invites all to Juhannus in the Copper Country, where we celebrate daylight, nature, and the company of friends and family. Join the Keweenaw during the summer solstice - the longest…