Happy Birthday America!

In just a few short days, our nation will be painted in Red, White, and Blue to celebrate our wonderful country’s Independence. Happy Fourth of July, Happy Independence Day, Happy Birthday America, however you say it, there are plenty of things to do here in the Straits of Mackinac to celebrate! Keep reading to see all that is happening in Mackinaw City, St. Ignace, and Mackinac Island.

In Mackinaw City the Annual Strawberry Social is put on by the Mackinaw City Woman’s Club at 11am. Join in on lawn games for the kids at Mackinaw City Marina Lawn. Bring a $5 donation for a heaping scoop of Ice Cream and Strawberries!

The St. Ignace Fourth of July Parade starts at 1pm followed by Music by the Bay featuring Aisle 8 Classic Rock Music from 7pm – 9pm at American Legion Park.

If your travels bring you to Mackinac Island for the weekend… look no further. There is plenty to do! Star Spangled 4th of July at Fort Mackinac offers the chance to experience an 1880’s Independence Day! Decked out with patriotic finery with banners, flags, and bunting in addition to 38-gun salutes honoring the states of period, performances of patriotic music, and Victorian children’s games. Starting first thing in the morning (9am) at Windermere Point the annual W.T. Rabe Stone Skipping Competition takes place. Professional Stone Skippers will bring their best skipping skills and compete for the much-coveted trophy. There are multiple divisions for everyone, please visit mackinacisland.org for more information on registration. Lastly, still at Windermere Point, there is a bike parade with kids decorating beforehand. Parade starts at 7pm, so bring your bike and decorating skills to boast your Red, White, and Blue spirit in the parade! Decorating supplies will be provided.

But the most anticipated event for all three ports… FIREWORKS! At dusk, all three cities will start the fireworks show! Although we are sold out this year, come back next year for a VIP seat aboard one of our Fourth of July Fireworks cruises on the Straits of the Mackinac and enjoy a close-up view you won’t want to miss!

We can’t wait to celebrate with you this Independence Day!