Mackinac Spring and Summer Events
Michigan’s Mackinaw Area Offers Festivals, Parades, and History
Mackinaw City, St. Ignace, and Mackinac Island offer a variety of family friendly activities each May, June, July, August and September. Here are four important events.
The Mackinac area of Michigan is a one-of-a-kind place to visit. Each part of the area – Mackinac City, St. Ignace, and Mackinac Island – offers something unique. These five events each give a special look at the beauty and history that make the Mackinac area such a great place to experience.
Colonial Michilimackinac Pageant
Each Memorial Day weekend in May, Fort Michilimackinac in Mackinac City hosts a historical reenactment of the events of June 2, 1763. Over 400 volunteers participate in the production that features this important event between the French, British and Indians. Also included in the weekend event are a historical fashion show, parade, fireworks, public historical auction, and muzzleloading competitions. There is no admission charge for the weekend events.
Mackinac Island Lilac Festival
In early June, Mackinac Island comes alive with over 100 different varieties of lilacs. The Mackinac Island Lilac Festival features several days of special events including one of the largest festival parades in the state and one of the only all horse hitch parades in the U.S. (No vehicles are permitted on the island.) Events include lilac symposiums, free concerts, a taste of Mackinac event, wine tasting, silent auction, historical lectures and more. Some events are free, but many require an admission fee. Details regarding times and fees can be found on the Lilac Festival website.
Star Spangled Fourth of July
Fort Mackinac on Mackinac Island hosts this annual patriotic event complete with lots of bunting, flags, banners and other celebratory finery. The theme is an 1880’s Independence Day celebration and will include a 38-gun salute honoring all of the states at the time. There will also be Victorian children’s games, patriotic music, and other events on the parade grounds. Admission is $10 for adults, $6.25 for youth ages 5-17, and free for children 4 and under. Hours during the Fourth of July season are 9:30 a.m. through 6:00 p.m.
Annual Mackinac Bridge Walk
Each September Labor Day, the “Mighty Mac” is open for walking. This is the only day of the year pedestrian traffic is allowed on the bridge. The five mile bridge is open for walking at 7:00 a.m. and people may start walking any time before 11:00 a.m. All walkers start in the Upper Peninsula (St. Ignace) and walk to the Lower Peninsula (Mackinac City). There is no fee or registration required to participate. Bus transportation from parking areas to the bridge is available for $5.00 per person. Additional information about the 51st Annual Bridge Walk is posted on the official Mackinac Bridge website.
