Michigan Winter Events
Michigan Tech Winter Carnival
February 6–9, 2019
Years of Innovation STEM from this Snowy Situation
Winter Carnival at Michigan Tech had its beginning back in 1922, when the Student Organization presented a one-night show called the “Ice Carnival.” The carnival progressed as the years went on, with the addition of a Carnival Queen and a parade in 1928. 1936 saw the first snow statues to be used in the carnival. Statues were built not only by students and student organizations, but also by local school children. The Houghton Rotary Club offered a prize for the best statue built by the local children. As information on the building methods was passed on from year to year, the statues became bigger and more elaborate. Statues by various campus groups would reflect the nature of the organization. In 1941 the civil engineers won first place with their statue of a bridge.
As the years have gone by the sculptures have gotten bigger and more intricate. some organizations spend hours an hours every day for a month constructing their displays. Other participate in the "one nighter" category where students build their sculpture all night long. All through the night there is plenty of "antifreeze" consumed as they turn snow onto something special.
To find this cache you will have the privilege of going for a nice walk though Paris Park. Caution, this park floods after a thaw or heavy rains. While I won't intentionally get you wet, you should plan for appropriate footwear if either of those conditions has occurred.
Begin your journey from the posted cords. head north, then up and over. Watch out very slippery when wet! Continue north, around the bend along the established pathway. When you have a choice take the first left. Enjoy walking through a winter wonderland. When you come to a T, jog over just a little to the West and take the path less traveled. Soon you will find yourself next to a fine example of Pinus strobus. Walk over too it. Look about 50 ft southwest and you soon will be able to mail your letter(box).