Hancock 2026
Hancock, Michigan USA is the 2026 Finno-Ugric Capital of Culture
Finlandia Foundation National is a proud steward of the Finnish American Heritage Center in Hancock, Michigan. We’re thrilled that the City of Hancock has been designated as the Finno-Ugric Capital of Culture 2026. We look forward to the events taking place throughout the year, including Heikinpäivä midwinter festival, and Juhannus midsummer festival.
Our Young Leaders Board member and cultural ambassador Gage “Touko” Keränen, has journeyed from Latvia to Estonia to Finland, making connections and learning more about our fellow Finno-Ugrics. He will be overseeing an educational campaign in 2026 to teach a wider audience about these languages and cultures.
About Gage “Touko” Keränen
Finno-Ugric Education and Outreach Lead | Young Leaders Board member
Gage (Touko) Keränen is a Finnish-American from Grand Rapids, MI, with roots in Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula (where Hancock is located). He has been active in several Finnish communities across the U.S., including in Phoenix, Tucson, and Farmington Hills. After studying Conservation Biology at Arizona State University, Gage now works in nonprofits providing scholarships, legal aid, and programming to local communities. A passionate community builder, he aims to strengthen Finnish-American communities through language learning, folk arts, and educational opportunities.
Fun fact: Gage plays the kantele.
What does Finno-Ugric mean?
In brief, Finno-Ugric refers to a family of peoples and languages within Northern Europe, Siberia, and Hungary.
Finlandia Foundation National
Our Mission
As the premier Finnish-American cultural organization, Finlandia Foundation National champions a vibrant Finnish-American heritage and legacy, and builds bridges between modern Finland and the United States, enabling people of all backgrounds to share in the traditions, values, and spirit of Finland and Finnish America.
Heikinpäivä: A Midwinter Celebration of Finnish Spirit
January 24, 2026
Each January, the city of Hancock, Michigan comes alive with Heikinpäivä, a one-of-a-kind celebration of Finnish-American heritage and the joy of winter. Founded in 1999, the festival honors the folklore and traditions brought to the Keweenaw by Finnish immigrants who came to work in the copper mines—and who made this region a lasting home.
What began as a small community event has grown into a beloved Copper Country tradition. In the weeks leading up to the main celebration, visitors and locals alike take part in workshops, music, and cultural activities. The highlight weekend features a whimsical parade inspired by Finnish legend, the famous wife-carrying contest, kicksled races, crafts, and a spirited Finnish-style dance to close out the festivities.
Heikinpäivä is a joyful reminder that even in the heart of winter, warmth and laughter abound—and everyone is welcome to join the fun!