Cannabis and live events go together beautifully. Responsible consumption of cannabis can make an event feel more vibrant, interesting, and enjoyable. Cannabis and music go hand in hand, which is why music lovers of all kinds toke before shows to feel more present and immersed.
If you’re exploring the many events and festivals in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, responsible cannabis consumption can fit right in.
Key Takeaways
- When consumed responsibly, cannabis can enhance your festival experience.
- Familiarize yourself with each event’s cannabis consumption policy, and obey the law.
- The U.P. has a year-round lineup of cannabis-friendly-adjacent events.
- Consider smoke-free alternatives like edibles, beverages, and vapes for public settings.
- RiZE Dispensary is the go-to local source for cannabis products on Michigan’s festival circuit.
How to Enjoy Weed Responsibly at Michigan U.P. Cannabis Events
Smoking a joint or enjoying an edible or THC drink is not so different from having an alcoholic beverage. Since Michigan legalized cannabis, more people have been turning to the plant to relax, feel engaged and present, and let the stress of regular life fade away.
However, while we’re pushing the cannabis conversation forward and breaking the stigma, consumption is not welcome everywhere.
- Know the rules. However you choose to consume, be a considerate neighbor. Don’t flaunt cannabis consumption where it’s not allowed.
- Consume with intent. Overindulging on cannabis can turn a fun event into an unpleasant experience. Start low, go slow, and allow cannabis to help you feel the moment more, not take you out of it.
- Keep it legal. Smoking in your cars, on sidewalks, or in parking lots is not allowed in Michigan.
It’s important to be mindful when consuming cannabis so that you have the best possible time!
Upper Peninsula Festivals That Are Cannabis Friendly
There are hundreds of incredible events held in Michigan every year. Shout out to the Ann Arbor Hash Bash, the protest-turned-annual event that has become one of the biggest and most historic cannabis gatherings in the country. But Ann Arbor isn’t in the Upper Peninsula, where plenty of Michigan’s best cannabis-friendly events take place all year round!
Let us show you what Michigan has to offer with this list of our favorite fests in the Upper Peninsula.
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Spring
Upper Peninsula Dark Sky Festival
Where: Keweenaw
When: April 8-10, 2027
Held during International Dark Sky Week, this annual festival at the Keweenaw Dark Sky Park celebrates the beauty of the pristine night sky. Organizers schedule events in the afternoon and evening and include stargazing, astrophotography, and more. A little toke beforehand will make you see the beauty of the skies like never before.
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Summer
Hiawatha Traditional Music Festival
Where: Marquette
When: July 17-19, 2026
For over 45 years, the Hiawatha Traditional Music Festival has celebrated traditional American music in a three-day event that brings together traditional music, dancing, and education. Traditional music genres include bluegrass, Celtic, acoustic blues, folk, old-timey, and Cajun, all heavily influenced by musicians who smoked weed.
Where: Republic
When: August 6-10, 2006
A Michigan favorite, the Summer’s End Smokeout showcases four days of live music of all kinds. Come visit us at the RIZE booth and then check out the smorgasbord of live painters and glassblowers, food vendors, and workshops. Plus there’s the Yooper Cup competition highlighting the best cannabis flower from Upper Peninsula cultivators, home growers, and brands.
Where: Escanaba
When: August 17-23, 2026
Every August, the Upper Peninsula comes together to celebrate the best in agriculture, food, drinks, and community across 15 counties with rides, live music, events, dozens of vendors, and more.
Where: Marquette
When: July 25 & 26, 2026
The organizers host this annual event on the shores of Lake Superior, providing an incredible backdrop to this nationally recognized and juried art show. Attendance is completely free to the public, and you never know what will catch your creative eye if you take a low-dose edible before attending.
Walleye/Pike Fishing Tournament and Fishing Derby
Where: Lake Linden
When: June 2026
It wouldn’t be summer in the U.P. without fishing tournaments. Held across the waters of Rice Lake, Lac Le Bella, Torch Lake, and Portage Lake, sportsmen have ample opportunities to reel in the big one – and what sounds better than a cool lake breeze on a sunny day with a cold THC drink in hand?
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Fall
Bigfoot and Bluegrass Festival
Where: Marquette
When: September 25 & 26, 2026
This festival is a unique celebration of Michigan’s pristine beauty, Leave No Trace principles, and bluegrass music. Attendees can enjoy live music, buy from local vendors, get hands-on experience in different fishing practices, and immerse themselves in Leave No Trace principles. If you’ve ever enjoyed a smoke outside, this festival is for you.
Where: Marquette
When: October 15-18, 2026
This film festival celebrates the best of the Great Lakes region and upper Midwest, championing stories about outdoor lifestyles, water-rich environments, and the resilient spirits who live here.
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Winter
Holiday Lasers on the Ore Dock
Where: Marquette
When: November/December 2026
Marquette comes alive with the holiday spirit when the annual holiday lasers return to the Lower Harbor Ore Dock on Lake Superior. Taking place Thursdays through Saturdays in November and December, this dazzling light show is made even more spectacular with a little THC.
Where: Houghton
When: February 2027
Snowboarding culture is intricately intertwined with cannabis culture. The small town of Houghton transforms into a real-life rail park during Jibba Jabba, where professionals and amateurs alike compete to wow the crowd with crazy drop-ins, killer tricks, and more.
Where: Hancock
When: January 2027
This annual celebration of Finnish heritage includes a parade, Finnish film, food, dance contests, and the beloved “wife-carrying” contest.
Where: Ishpeming
When: January 22-23, 2027
One of the longest point-to-point ski marathons in the U.S., participants race through up to 50 kilometers of pristine Michigan wilderness to compete in a variety of grueling races. A highlight of winter in the U.P., this event draws thousands of elite skiers and avid enthusiasts.
Making the Most of Events and Festivals in Michigan’s U.P.
- Check event policies to know if on-site consumption is allowed.
- Be respectful of your neighbors – no smoking where it’s prohibited.
- Edibles, beverages, and vapes are great smoke-free options.
- RiZE dispensaries are located in U.P communities near many events and festivals.
- Responsible cannabis consumption can elevate events, helping you feel more relaxed, social, or elevated.
- RiZE has a selection of cannabis products for every type of consumer.
RiZE Dispensary is Elevating Cannabis Culture in Michigan
Since our first store opened in Iron Mountain in 2020, RiZE has been proud to elevate the cannabis conversation and showcase the best of Michigan’s cannabis market. As a women-owned and family-operated store, our roots run deep in the heart of the U.P.
We don’t just work here; we live here. When you shop at RiZE, you’re supporting small, local U.P businesses that give back to the community.
FAQ
- Can I smoke weed at events and festivals in Michigan?
Perhaps. Cannabis policies vary by event, so check event rules beforehand and follow any posted signage about smoking. However, consumption in public places, such as sidewalks and parking lots, is not allowed.
- Can I buy THC drinks at events or festivals in Michigan?
Vendors may sell THC drinks at an event or festival if they obtain the proper permit through the Michigan Cannabis Regulatory Association. It’s increasingly common to see THC drinks for sale at events in Michigan, so keep an eye out!
- Where can I legally smoke weed in Michigan?
You can smoke weed on private property with the owner’s permission. Some events and festivals in Michigan allow weed smoking if they own the event venue, while others do not. Always check policies beforehand.
- What is the biggest weed-friendly event in Michigan?
The Ann Arbor Hash Bash is one of the longest-running cannabis gatherings in the country and Michigan’s biggest weed-friendly event. Organizers hold it every April in Ann Arbor, bringing together thousands of cannabis vendors, advocates, and plant lovers.
High Quality U.P. Cannabis at RiZE Dispensaries
Whether you’re visiting the U.P. for your favorite summer festival, exploring a new town, or taking in the best of the wilderness along the shores of Lake Superior, you’re never far from a RiZE dispensary.
Visit us in Iron Mountain, Menominee, or Ironwood and pair the best of Michigan’s cannabis market with your adventures.
DISCLAIMER: The contents of this blog are intended for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.