We always mark Memorial weekend as the first sign of summer, and this year it did not disappoint! Temperatures in the low 70s, not a cloud in the sky, and the wind even cooperated (on Saturday, at least).  As you start planning for your summer Mackinac vacation, we want to let you know a little bit about what is going on in the next few months.

Lighthouse Cruises

Our Lighthouse Cruises start on June 21st. Each cruise is narrated by the Great Lakes Lighthouse Keepers Association and gives you an up-close view of these historic icons.  We have 5 different routes to choose from, including our 5-hour cruise through the Les Cheneaux Islands.  You can learn more about each cruise and book your reservation here.

Night Sky Cruises

You have five chances this summer to get out and see the stars with us, and your first chance is June 30th for the Quarter Moon Cruise.  Come enjoy an evening on the water with narration by Mary Stewart Adams, Program Director for the International Dark Sky Park at the Headlands in Mackinaw City.  See the schedule and buy tickets here.

4th of July Fireworks Cruise

Get up close and personal with the awesome fireworks displays over the Straits of Mackinac!  Tickets sell out every year, so be sure to get yours early.  We have cruises leaving from Mackinac Island and Mackinaw City.  Get more information and buy tickets here.

Other notable events include:

Mackinac Island Lilac Festival June 9-18.  The Lilac Parade should definitely be on your bucket list.  It is the longest running horse-drawn parade in the United States and it happens on June 18th at 4pm.

Chicago to Mackinac Race – Leaves Chicago July 15th

Bell’s Bayview to Mackinac Race – Leaves Port Huron July 22nd

Mackinac Island Fudge Festival – August 18-20