Copper Country Festa Italiana

The Copper Country of Upper Michigan is a melting pot of nationalities. Immigrants from the world came to the U.P. to earn their fortunes and better the living conditions for their families. Among these immigrants were the men of the recently unified country of Italy, who came to work underground in the copper mines. Separation from their families in Italy was incredibly difficult and a chain of immigration began as the men brought their wives and children to this new land at the farthest north end of the rail line.

Our ancestors struggled to eke out a living in a country far away and far from the conditions of their homeland. Many have since married with other nationalities and the surnames have been changed or lost.  Many of the families relocated as the copper mining industry declined. Others found work above ground in the bakeries, groceries, restaurants and service industries of the region.

Copper Country Festa Italiana celebrates this hardworking heritage and traditions of those who remained and persevered.  Join us as we celebrate with family, food, music and dance.