The highly anticipated 2024 MTU Parade of Nations, a vibrant celebration of cultural diversity hosted by Michigan Technological University, is set to dazzle the community with a new and exciting parade route. This year’s parade will take participants and spectators on a journey through the heart of the MTU campus and into downtown Houghton, ending at the historic Dee Stadium with a grand celebration of food and entertainment.
2024 Parade Route:
📍 Parade walkers will gather at the Rozsa Center to get their flags and prepare!
📍 Parade Floats will stage at the parking lot by the Admissions Building, accessible by Cliff Drive.
📍 Parade walkers will begin the official parade through the Michigan Technological University campus!
📍 Parade floats will line up at the stop sign Cliff Drive and College Ave while walkers approach.
📍 Parade walkers will flow through the new University Arch onto College Ave. Here Parade Guides will alternate walkers and floats.
📍 The full mixed parade will dazzle all along College Ave through Downtown City of Houghton!
📍 Parade will turn right at The Ambassador, and then another right onto Lakeshore Drive.
📍 End at the Dee Stadium for food and entertainment!
In light of recent changes in the local community, including the closure of Finlandia University, the City of Hancock has requested a re-routing of the parade from its traditional path. This shift allows the City to better manage resources while continuing to support the vibrant event.
Todd Gast, Community Development for the City of Hancock and the Downtown Development Authority and Parade of Nations volunteer committee member, commented on the change: “With the closure of Finlandia, we’ve had to rethink how we allocate our resources. The Parade of Nations is a cherished tradition for both cities, and by routing the parade from MTU through Houghton, we ensure that the event can continue to thrive without placing undue strain on our community resources.”
Though the route is new, the food and fun remains the same! Attendees can expect dishes from around the world and various entertainment. Here are some of the student and community orgs folks can expect:
MTU Student Vendors:
Indian Students Association
Bangladeshi Student Association
Iranian Community at Michigan Tech
Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers
African Students Organization
Nepalese Students Association
Muslim Students Association
Society of Asian Scientists & Engineers
Local Booths:
Gen X,Y&I Podcast
MTU Study Abroad
Local Vendors:
Border Grill
Sky Sushi
Griffin Cafe
The Parade of Nations is more than just a parade; it’s a celebration of the rich tapestry of cultures that make up the MTU community and the greater Houghton-Hancock area. This year’s parade promises to be as spectacular as ever, with vibrant floats, colorful costumes, and a spirit of unity that brings people together from all walks of life.
For more information about the 2024 Parade of Nations, please visit the MTU website or contact the event organizers at paradeofnations@mtu.edu.
About the Parade of Nations: The Parade of Nations is an annual event organized by Michigan Technological University, celebrating the diverse cultural heritage of its students, faculty, and the surrounding community. The parade is followed by a multicultural festival, offering food, entertainment, and educational experiences from around the world.