Phto by Jimmy Conover on Unsplash.com

Mackinaw City Winter Festival

January 2026

Come celebrate winter in Mackinaw City during Winterfest. Enjoy outhouse races, sleigh rides, chili cook-off, and many more fun winter activities for kids, tweens and adults.

Here's what happened last year:

  • 10:30am-4pm – FREE Big Freeze Obstacle Course for kids age 6-17 with 4 age divisions for boys and girls. Prizes awarded for fastest time in each age division. Costumes are encouraged. To register, call (231) 436-5664 or email events@mackinawcity.com. Registrations will also be accepted from 10:30-11am on event day. Mackinaw Crossings front parking lot- 248 S. Huron Ave.
  • 11:30am-1:30pm – Chili Cook Off at Mama Mia’s Pizza- 231 E. Central Ave. Register by December 30th by calling (231) 436-5574. Tastings and voting is $5/person. There will also be a cash bar and 50/50 raffle. 
  • 2pm – Pepsi International Outhouse Races in Shepler’s Parking Lot- 311 N. Nicolet St. Cash Prizew inclue $500 for first place, $250 for second place, $100 for third place, and $100 for “Best in Show”. For more information and registration visit: mackinawouthouserace.com or call (231) 436-5493.
  • 2pm – Parade
  • Afterglow Parties at both O’Reilly’s Irish Pub- 106 Langlade, and Dixie Saloon.

Experience Mackinaw City

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.

Stay tuned for information on the 2026 Mackinaw City Winterfest!

For more information on Mackinaw City Winterfest, please contact the event organizer:

Mackinaw City Chamber of Commerce

300 D East Central, Mackinaw City, MI 49701

(231) 436-5574

mackinawchamber.com

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