The Upper Peninsula Volunteer Firefighters Tournament got off to a great start with two parades last night.
Some 700 firefighters from more than three dozen U.P. departments donned their formal uniforms for the Dress Parade through Calumet at 7, then changed into flannels and other comical costumes for the humorous Nightshirt Parade at 10. Hundreds of citizens braved a chilly west wind to line Fifth Street for both events. Between the parades, the Copper Country Clown Band entertained at several Calumet bars, where firefighters were celebrating.
Competition in the traditional races begins at 9 this morning. The Firefighters Ball will be held tonight at 8. Both events will take place at the Colosseum.
The 127th annual tournament will conclude tomorrow. The Commercial Parade will begin at 11 on Fifth Street. The awards ceremony will follow at the Calumet Township Fire Station.
See the full schedule here.