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.
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.
Bicyclists, walkers, and roller bladers can go from Harbor Springs to Charlevoix on the 26-mile long Little Traverse Wheelway.
The majestic and historic Grand Hotel is one of the first sights visitors see as they head into the harbor on Mackinac Island.
Northern Michigan builder Earl Young created the unusual mushroom houses in Charlevoix. Tours are available.