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.
Arch Rock is a geologic wonder on Mackinac Island and stands 146′ over the Lake Huron shoreline- nearly 15 stories tall.
This Inland Waterway covers 38.2 miles from outside of Petoskey to Cheboygan. Find state parks, fishing, swimming, and more along the way.
The Harbor Springs History Museum offers a unique look at the history of the community, starting with the first Catholic missionaries.
Historic Mill Creek has 625 acres along Lake Huron, 3.5 miles of hiking trails, a reconstructed saw mill, mill dam, and more.
A visit to Northern Michigan is not complete without a walk along the Lake Michigan in search of Petoskey stones.
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.