Christmas & Holiday Activities in Northern Michigan
The holiday season in Northern Michigan includes Christmas tree lightings, decorated stores, parades, merchant open houses, and more.
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 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.
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.
The history of the fur trade in Northern Michigan is captured at Colonial Michilimackinac in Mackinaw City.
Mackinaw City's Heritage Village lets visitors explore life in the Straits of Mackinac as it was during the era of 1880-1917.
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 Discover Park has 625 acres along Lake Huron, 3.5 miles of hiking trails, a reconstructed saw mill, mill dam, and more.
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!
McGulpin Rock, near Mackinaw City, has been used as a navigational tool by explorers and mariners since before the Pilgrims landed.
The Mackinac Bridge is the 10th largest suspension bridge (over water) in the world and connects Michigan's Upper and Lower Peninsula.
While it may be the gateway to Mackinac Island, Mackinaw City offers it's own set of awesome festivals and events.
312 South Huron Avenue, Mackinaw City, MI, 49701
(231) 420-8297
The holiday season in Northern Michigan includes Christmas tree lightings, decorated stores, parades, merchant open houses, and more.
Apple Fest. Held each year on the second weekend of October, Apple Fest turns downtown Charlevoix into a festive and fun place to be.
This 3-day festival in Boyne City begins with a run along Lake Charlevoix and ends with fireworks, with food, fun, and more in between!
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The Harbor Springs History Museum offers a unique look at the history of the community, starting with the first Catholic missionaries.
The Andrew J. Blackbird Museum is named for a counselor who helped Native American veterans. Native American artifacts fill the museum space.
Northern Michigan has many varied settings for kayaking- whether it by river, one of the inland lakes, or Lake Michigan,
The many ski resorts in Northern Michigan have winter activities for the entire family including sledding, sleigh rides, tubing, and more.
This Inland Waterway covers 38.2 miles from outside of Petoskey to Cheboygan. Find state parks, fishing, swimming, and more along the way.
Harris Gardens at North Central Michigan College is a spectacular sculpture garden filled with 26 pieces of vibrant art.
Historic Mill Creek Discover Park has 625 acres along Lake Huron, 3.5 miles of hiking trails, a reconstructed saw mill, mill dam, and more.
West Michigan is home to numerous artists with so many different talents. Groovy music, vivid paintings, gorgeous photography, and more!
A visit to Northern Michigan is not complete without a walk along the Lake Michigan in search of Petoskey stones.
Within the historic Chicago/West Michigan railroad depot in Petoskey, the Little Traverse History Museum is a history filled gem.