Photo by the Fort Michilimackinac Historical Reenactment Pageant
Mackinaw City is the gateway community to Mackinac Island and is settled on the shores of the Straits of Mackinac at the tip of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. Mackinaw City offers wonderful views of two Great Lakes, Mackinac Bridge, and the surrounding countryside. This resort village also hosts many great events throughout the year.
January
Come celebrate winter in Mackinaw City during their Winterfest. There is a huge variety of activities included in the event like amateur snow carving, outhouse races, sleigh rides, poker walk, chili cook-off, indoor ice skating, euchre tournament, and many more fun winter activities including games for kids, tweens and adults. One of the most popular events during the festival is the Ice Fishing Tournament on Paradise Lake!
May
The Fort Michilimackinac Historical Reenactment Pageant has become the longest running FREE Memorial Day historical program in the United States. The three-day pageant brings to life the 1763 Fort Michilimackinac battle between the French, British, and Native Americans. Cast members in period garb demonstrate the way of life for residents of Northern Michigan in the 1760’s. One of the most popular activities during the pageant is the Memorial Day parade through the streets of Mackinaw City.
December
This wonderful event is one not to be missed during the holiday season. Christmas in Mackinaw incorporates a Victorian Christmas theme into the aspects of the celebration. Events take place beginning at McGulpin Point Lighthouse and end at Heritage Chapel in Heritage Village. The event includes sleigh rides, visits with Santa, music, and of course their holiday parade. Admission is free for all activities.
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.
Wildlife sanctuary Thorne Swift Nature Preserve is located 3 1/2 miles north of Harbor Springs, between Lower Shore Drive and Lake Michigan.
Why do people enjoy being up north so much? Find out what makes being up north feel special with our list of Northern Michigan specialties.
With miles of scenic trails terrain and local snowmobile clubs, Northern Michigan is the place to bring the snow sleds in the winter.
McGulpin Rock, near Mackinaw City, has been used as a navigational tool by explorers and mariners since before the Pilgrims landed.
In Northern Michigan, you’ll find lighthouses where lighthouse keepers once lived and worked that have been restored and are open to visitors.