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.
While it may be the gateway to Mackinac Island, Mackinaw City offers it's own set of awesome festivals and events.
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.
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!
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.
Historic Mill Creek has 625 acres along Lake Huron, 3.5 miles of hiking trails, a reconstructed saw mill, mill dam, and more.
Mackinaw City's Heritage Village lets visitors explore life in the Straits of Mackinac as it was during the era of 1880-1917.
The Mackinac Bridge is the 10th largest suspension bridge (over water) in the world and connects Michigan's Upper and Lower Peninsula.
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!
The history of the fur trade in Northern Michigan is captured at Colonial Michilimackinac in Mackinaw City.
McGulpin Rock, near Mackinaw City, has been used as a navigational tool by explorers and mariners since before the Pilgrims landed.
312 South Huron Avenue, Mackinaw City, MI, 49701
(231) 420-8297
Boyne City’s Harvest Festival is held each September and fills the downtown with music, crafts, and fall produce.
The Venetian Festival in Charlevoix has been a highlight of summer in Northern Michigan for more than 80 years.
East Jordan’s Freedom Festival has food, music, fun, entertainment, carnival, dancing, and more. Fun for the whole family!
The Harsha House and the Charlevoix Depot Museum, run by the Charlevoix Historical Society, preserve much of Charlevoix’s rich history.
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!
North Central Michigan College’s Natural Area in Petoskey includes over five miles of trails that run through unique habitats.
The history Northern Michigan’s Inland Water Route is preserved at the Inland Water Route Historical Museum in Alanson.
The history of the fur trade in Northern Michigan is captured at Colonial Michilimackinac in Mackinaw City.
Get the sleds and the skates out, put on the cold weather clothes, and enjoy sledding and ice skating in Northern Michigan.