Festivals & Events on Mackinac Island
Referred to as the “Jewel of the Great Lakes”, Mackinac Island has many special festivals and events that go on during their prime season.
Photo by the Fort Michilimackinac Historical Reenactment Pageant
The longest running free Memorial Day historical program in the U.S. takes places in Mackinaw City, Michigan: the Fort Michilimackinac Historical Reenactment Pageant. More than 400 cast members take part in the three-day pageant that brings to life the 1763 Fort Michilimackinac battle between the French, British, and Native Americans.
The cast members are clad in period costumes and demonstrate the way of life for residents of Northern Michigan in the 1760’s. A highlight of the weekend is the Memorial Day parade through the streets of Mackinaw City that includes more than 100 bands, acts, and floats.
*All events are held within Fort Michilimackinac (7127 Huron Rd., Mackinaw City) unless otherwise noted
Mackinaw City’s location at the most Northern tip in the lower peninsula is the perfect destination for visitors. With Lake Michigan on one side and Lake Huron on the other side, this is a true Great Lake’s spot. Read the stories below or go to the Mackinaw City destination page.
Mackinaw and Mackinac are pronounced the same way. Why? It's the area's rich history with the Native Americans, French, and British.
McGulpin Rock, near Mackinaw City, has been used as a navigational tool by explorers and mariners since before the Pilgrims landed.
Built during World War II to haul heavy materials during the winter, the Icebreaker Mackinaw was in service for 62 years then became a museum.
Historic Mill Creek Discover Park has 625 acres along Lake Huron, 3.5 miles of hiking trails, a reconstructed saw mill, mill dam, and more.
The history of the fur trade in Northern Michigan is captured at Colonial Michilimackinac in Mackinaw City.
While it may be the gateway to Mackinac Island, Mackinaw City offers it's own set of awesome festivals and events.
With Lake Michigan on one side and Lake Huron on the other side, Mackinaw City is a true Great Lake’s spot with lots of things to do!
Mackinaw City's Heritage Village lets visitors explore life in the Straits of Mackinac as it was during the era of 1880-1917.
The Headlands, just west of Mackinaw City, is one of six International Dark Sky Parks in the U.S. and one of nine in the world.
The Mackinac Bridge is the 10th largest suspension bridge (over water) in the world and connects Michigan's Upper and Lower Peninsula.
312 South Huron Avenue, Mackinaw City, MI, 49701
(231) 420-8297
Referred to as the “Jewel of the Great Lakes”, Mackinac Island has many special festivals and events that go on during their prime season.
An amazing array of activities like parades, fireworks, and more, make the 4th of July a special day in Northern Michigan.
This 3-day festival in Boyne City begins with a run along Lake Charlevoix and ends with fireworks, with food, fun, and more in between!
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Young State Park outside Boyne City is a ‘year round delight for campers, hikers, snow lovers, swimmers and nature lovers.
The National Shrine of the Cross in the Woods is a 55′ x 22′ redwood cross cut from one redwood tree and with a 28′ tall bronze crucifix.
Within the historic Chicago/West Michigan railroad depot in Petoskey, the Little Traverse History Museum is a history filled gem.
Disc golf is hot everywhere and especially in Northern Michigan because of it’s many courses and beautiful scenery.
With woods, dunes, and frozen lakes, the trails near Charlevoix and Boyne City are the places to cross country ski from December-March.
The history Northern Michigan’s Inland Water Route is preserved at the Inland Water Route Historical Museum in Alanson.
West Michigan is home to numerous artists with so many different talents. Groovy music, vivid paintings, gorgeous photography, and more!
Shop Northern Michigan antiques shops, art galleries, and furniture stores for home furnishings that are unique and affordable.
The Andrew J. Blackbird Museum is named for a counselor who helped Native American veterans. Native American artifacts fill the museum space.
Beaver Island is located 32 miles offshore of Charlevoix, Michigan and is the largest island in Lake Michigan.