MARQUETTE, Mich.— A new exhibit titled Music in the Pines: Hiawatha Traditional Music Festival will be unveiled at Northern Michigan University’s Beaumier U.P. Heritage Center. A grand opening celebration with music, dancing, food and soft drinks will be held from 1-3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27, in 105 Cohodas Hall. It is free and open to the public.

Music in the Pines features relics, memories and colorful stories that capture the essence of Hiawatha from the perspective of event organizers and attendees through the years. It also explores the festival’s rich traditions and history.

The idea for Hiawatha dates back to the 1970s. A group of young adult musicians who lived together in what’s known as the “Big House” in Deerton wanted to create a U.P. festival that featured music with traditional, acoustic roots. They also wanted the event to be interactive and family-friendly. The group, along with friends and family, ultimately formed the Hiawatha Music Co-op.

The first traditional music festival was held in Munising. The event relocated to Champion for six years before settling in Marquette. This summer marked the 30th year Tourist Park has hosted the event.

Music in the Pines will run through Jan. 31. Center hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday-Saturday.